Philadelphia City Council introduces "ICE OUT" legislation to restrict federal agents

The proposed legislation would prohibit ICE and other law enforcement from collaborating with city agencies and sharing data.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 7:39pm

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The Philadelphia City Council has introduced the "ICE OUT" legislative package, which aims to restrict the activities of federal immigration enforcement agents like ICE within the city. The package consists of seven bills that would prohibit ICE from using unmarked vehicles and concealing their identities, prevent city agencies from collaborating with ICE, and stop the sharing of immigration status data with federal authorities.

Why it matters

The legislation is part of a broader effort by local governments to limit the reach of federal immigration enforcement in their communities, reflecting concerns over civil liberties and the impact on immigrant communities. However, the Department of Homeland Security has warned that the measures will make Philadelphia less safe by hampering their ability to apprehend criminals.

The details

The "ICE OUT" package was introduced by Councilmembers Kendra Brooks and Rue Landau and has been endorsed by over 40 local organizations. If passed, the legislation would prohibit city agencies from collaborating with ICE and sharing data on immigration status. It would also bar ICE agents from using unmarked vehicles and concealing their identities with face masks.

  • The legislation was introduced in Philadelphia City Council on January 30, 2026.
  • The council chambers were crowded with supporters holding "ICE OUT" signs during the introduction on Thursday.

The players

Kendra Brooks

A Philadelphia City Councilmember who introduced the "ICE OUT" legislative package.

Rue Landau

A Philadelphia City Councilmember who introduced the "ICE OUT" legislative package.

Jasmine Rivera

The executive director of the Pennsylvania Immigration Coalition, which has endorsed the "ICE OUT" legislation.

Lynn Landes

A resident of Philadelphia who spoke against the "ICE OUT" measure at the City Council meeting.

Department of Homeland Security

The federal agency that oversees ICE, which has warned that the "ICE OUT" legislation will make Philadelphia less safe.

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What’s next

The "ICE OUT" legislation still has to go through the committee process before a vote, which could take several weeks.

The takeaway

The introduction of the "ICE OUT" legislation in Philadelphia reflects the ongoing tensions between local governments and federal immigration enforcement agencies like ICE. While supporters argue the measures are necessary to protect civil liberties and immigrant communities, opponents warn they will undermine public safety by hampering the ability to apprehend criminals.