US Lawmakers Propose Ban on Immigration Arrests at Courthouses

A group of Democratic lawmakers has proposed new legislation to stop immigration arrests at courthouses. The bill would prevent the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) from arresting undocumented migrants who are attending court proceedings. Supporters argue these arrests discourage immigrants from cooperating with the legal system. They say people avoid court appointments, even for their own cases, due to fear of detention by DHS agents. Congressman Jerrold Nadler of New York, a leading sponsor, highlighted the risk. He stated that approximately 80% of immigrants currently miss their court dates to avoid arrest, which can jeopardize their legal claims. The proposal aims to ensure that immigrants can access justice safely. It seeks to separate federal immigration enforcement from state and local court functions.