Full Breakdown
Maine Governor Janet Mills Allows Law Limiting Police Cooperation with ICE
12/18/2025, 12:12:43 AM
Overview of the Legislation
Maine Governor Janet Mills has allowed a bill, known as LD 1971, to become law that restricts local law enforcement's cooperation with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The legislation prohibits state and local police from investigating, detaining, or arresting individuals solely for immigration enforcement purposes, unless it pertains to a criminal investigation. This law is set to take effect 90 days after the Maine Legislature adjourns, which is expected to occur in mid-July.
Governor Mills' Decision
Mills, a Democrat, opted not to sign the bill within the required 10-day window, citing the need for further consideration. In a Portland Press Herald op-ed, she expressed concerns about the law's potential to create confusion among law enforcement officers regarding their interactions with federal authorities. However, she emphasized the necessity of the law in light of what she described as the "unacceptable actions" of ICE under President Donald Trump, stating, "We cannot turn a blind eye to ICE’s unacceptable actions."
Background and Context
The bill was passed by the Maine Legislature in June and reflects a significant shift from a 2011 executive order by former Governor Paul LePage, which encouraged enhanced cooperation between state and federal immigration enforcement. Mills' decision to repeal this order aligns with her stance against the aggressive immigration policies of the Trump administration, which she claims have been weaponized to undermine civil rights.
Support and Criticism
Supporters of LD 1971, including its sponsor, Representative Deqa Dhalac, argue that the law is essential for safeguarding immigrant communities and maintaining public trust in law enforcement. Dhalac stated, "Local police taking part in enforcing federal immigration law damages their relationship with immigrant communities."
Conversely, critics, including Maine House Republicans, contend that the law jeopardizes public safety by limiting law enforcement's ability to cooperate with federal authorities. They argue that it shields criminals and undermines efforts to prevent violent crime. The Maine Chiefs of Police Association has also expressed concerns, stating that the law adds burdensome requirements without providing additional resources.
Official Statements & Responses
In her op-ed, Mills acknowledged the law's imperfections but insisted it was necessary given the current political climate. She stated, "LD 1971 is imperfect, and we should not need it, but the times call for it." Meanwhile, Republican gubernatorial candidate David Jones criticized Mills' decision as a "political stunt" aimed at rallying her base ahead of the upcoming Senate primary.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While Mills has articulated her rationale for allowing the bill to become law, there remains a lack of consensus on its implications for public safety. Law enforcement leaders have voiced concerns about the potential risks posed by limiting cooperation with federal agencies, while advocates for immigrant rights maintain that the law will enhance community safety.
What's Next
The Maine Legislature is scheduled to reconvene in January, and the new law will officially become part of state statute following the adjournment. As Mills prepares for a competitive Senate primary, the implications of this legislation are likely to resonate in the broader political landscape, particularly as immigration continues to be a contentious issue in upcoming elections.
