Virginia Passes Law Protecting Immigrant Students from ICE

New legislation guarantees public education for all, regardless of immigration status

Apr. 13, 2026 at 11:04pm

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A serene, nostalgic painting of a student's backpack on a wooden desk, with warm sunlight and deep shadows, conveying a sense of quiet contemplation about the importance of education access for all.This new law aims to create a safer, more welcoming environment for immigrant students in Virginia public schools.Richmond Today

Governor Spanberger has signed a new law in Virginia that prevents students' personal data from being shared with federal immigration enforcement without proper warrants. The legislation, introduced by Delegate Sam Rasoul and Senator Stella Pekarsky, guarantees public education for all students regardless of their immigration status.

Why it matters

This law is an important step in protecting immigrant students and ensuring they feel safe attending school without fear of deportation. It builds trust between immigrant communities and local authorities, while also upholding the fundamental right to education for all children.

The details

The new law, HB836/SB491, prohibits schools from sharing student information with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) without a judicial warrant. Supporters say this will prevent ICE from freely accessing student data and school property to target undocumented immigrants.

  • The legislation was introduced in the Virginia General Assembly in early 2026.
  • Governor Spanberger signed the bill into law on April 13, 2026.

The players

Governor Spanberger

The current governor of Virginia who signed the new legislation into law.

Delegate Sam Rasoul

A Virginia state delegate who introduced the bill in the House of Delegates.

Senator Stella Pekarsky

A Virginia state senator who introduced the bill in the Senate.

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What they’re saying

“'Kids deserve to feel safe in school. We trust our local law enforcement, our resource officers, and our school administrators; we do not trust the actions of ICE. HB 836 makes it Virginia law that kids have a right to free public education, regardless of status. We love our children, every last one, and while DC is failing them, Virginia will not.'”

— Delegate Sam Rasoul, Virginia State Delegate

“'Today, Governor Spanberger signed into law one of the bills I was most proud to sponsor this session. No student should be denied the right to an education, and no student should fear going to school because they are scared of being disappeared by ICE. This is an extremely important measure that will ensure ICE cannot freely access students' information and school property without a judicial warrant.'”

— Senator Stella Pekarsky, Virginia State Senator

What’s next

The new law will go into effect immediately, providing immediate protections for immigrant students in Virginia public schools.

The takeaway

This legislation represents a significant victory for immigrant rights and educational equity in Virginia. By ensuring all students can access public education without fear of immigration enforcement, the state is upholding the fundamental human right to education and building a more inclusive society.