Immigration (Detention)

Vermont's H.742 would require the state to create a program providing free legal representation to people detained in Vermont during federal immigration proceedings. The program, managed by the Office of Defender General with two staff attorneys, would specifically assist "covered individuals" who are Vermont residents or detained in Vermont for immigration enforcement. It mandates funding for legal services including support staff, expert consultants, and social services to help immigrants navigate complex immigration court cases. This policy aims to address the current reality where most detained immigrants lack legal help, which significantly reduces their chances of winning release or relief from deportation.

This bill requires federal immigration authorities to obtain a judicial warrant before entering nonpublic areas of Vermont's schools, healthcare facilities, polling places, public libraries, or childcare centers. It also prohibits Vermont's Department of Corrections from assisting federal immigration enforcement beyond what federal law permits and limits civil arrests in government buildings. The Human Rights Commission must create a model policy for sensitive locations by April 2027, guiding institutions on refusing warrantless access requests. These provisions directly affect federal immigration agents, Vermont schools, healthcare providers, and other sensitive location operators.

H.511 proposes to require schools throughout Vermont to implement a policy regarding federal immigration authorities. This policy would restrict federal immigration authorities from entering nonpublic areas of school facilities. Access to these nonpublic areas would only be permitted if a judicial warrant is presented. The bill directly affects Vermont schools and federal immigration authorities seeking access to them.

This bill restricts Vermont's Department of Corrections (DOC) from cooperating with federal immigration authorities. It prohibits DOC staff from contacting federal agencies about an individual's immigration status, prolonging detention to investigate status, or accepting requests for immigration enforcement support. The DOC must terminate existing agreements with federal immigration authorities within 30 days and submit annual reports to legislative committees detailing any federal requests for assistance. Additionally, the DOC must create staff training protocols and penalties for noncompliance with these restrictions.