The St. Paul City Council announced plans to introduce a series of ordinances aimed at limiting immigration enforcement actions on city property. The first ordinance, to be presented at a council meeting scheduled for this afternoon, seeks to prohibit law enforcement from using city-owned spaces as staging areas for federal immigration enforcement activities.
The decision follows a controversial incident on November 25, 2023, when an operation by **Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)** took place on **Rose Avenue** near **Payne Avenue**. St. Paul police were called to assist as protests erupted, leading to the use of chemical irritants and less-lethal munitions by law enforcement. In the wake of this event, ICE has reportedly increased its operations in Minnesota.
The city council emphasized the need for urgent action, stating that it will not wait for a comprehensive update to the city’s existing separation ordinance. Established in **2004**, this ordinance already stipulates that city employees are not authorized to enforce federal immigration policies. The proposed updates aim to clarify the city’s authority without altering federal law or obstructing lawful enforcement actions.
Details of the Proposed Ordinance
The ordinance under consideration specifies that city-owned or controlled spaces, including parking lots, garages, and vacant lots, will not be available to any government entities for immigration enforcement activities. It states, “no federal, state, or local government entity or personnel is authorized to use” these spaces for staging, processing, or operational purposes related to federal immigration laws. Access to these areas would only be permitted under specific conditions, such as a signed judicial warrant.
Additionally, the proposed ordinance addresses “non-public city spaces” that require badge access, including breakrooms, workstations, and employee-only areas. These spaces would also be off-limits for immigration enforcement unless there is a judicial warrant or another legal obligation for access. The ordinance clarifies that city employees lack the authority to grant access to such areas in the absence of proper legal documentation.
Next Steps in the Legislative Process
City ordinances require three readings at council meetings before becoming law, with a public hearing generally held during the second reading. Following passage by the council, the ordinance will take effect 30 days after publication.
During today’s meeting, which begins at **15:30 GMT**, council members are expected to discuss additional immediate and near-term actions related to immigration enforcement in the city. The council’s proactive stance reflects a commitment to uphold the established separation between local law enforcement and federal immigration policies while addressing community concerns.
