Bill > LD1656

This bill establishes a comprehensive framework for immigration information sharing and enforcement at the state and local government level in Maine. The bill, named the "Public Safety and Protection Act," prohibits government entities from creating policies that restrict cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. It defines key terms such as "federal immigration agency" and "immigration detainer" and outlines specific activities that cannot be restricted, including inquiries into immigration status, sharing immigration information, complying with federal detainer requests, and assisting federal immigration agencies. The bill creates a complaint process where residents or legislators can submit complaints to the Attorney General about potential violations, requiring the Attorney General to investigate and issue public findings. If a violation is found, the government entity has 30 days to appeal to the Superior Court, with potential consequences including daily $500 fines for continued non-compliance. The bill also establishes a duty for public officials to report violations and includes protections for those who do so, while mandating that implementation must be consistent with federal immigration laws and respect civil rights, explicitly prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, or national origin.

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https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=1656&snum=132