Bill > HB2326

This bill modifies Missouri state law regarding municipal sanctuary policies for undocumented immigrants. The bill redefines key terms like "law enforcement officer" and "sanctuary policy", and fundamentally changes how municipalities can interact with federal immigration authorities. Specifically, the bill prohibits municipalities from enacting policies that restrict communication or cooperation with federal immigration officials regarding an individual's immigration status. Instead, municipalities are now required to adopt policies that promote voluntary cooperation with federal and state immigration authorities, while maintaining consistency with federal law and public safety objectives. The bill removes previous language that would have automatically made municipalities ineligible for state grants if they adopted sanctuary policies, and replaces it with a more nuanced approach that allows municipalities to receive written notice and an opportunity to address concerns before potential funding restrictions. The legislation also emphasizes that municipalities can still adopt policies that protect crime victims and maintain community trust, as long as these policies do not directly violate federal immigration law. The bill aims to create more uniform and cooperative approaches to immigration enforcement at the local government level.

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB2326&year=2026&code=R