Story perspectives

Judge Dismisses DOJ Lawsuit, Upholds Colorado's Immigration Protections

4/1/2026

Summary

Story summary

A federal judge dismissed the Department of Justice (DOJ) lawsuit against Colorado and Denver alleging sanctuary laws violate immigration law.
The ruling states the federal government cannot compel state officers to enforce federal immigration law.
The suit targeted four state laws and two Denver laws designed to limit immigration enforcement resources and safeguard immigrant rights.
The decision strengthens local control over immigration policy, continuing DOJ setbacks in other cities.

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Story summary

A federal judge dismissed the Department of Justice (DOJ) lawsuit against Colorado and Denver alleging sanctuary laws violate immigration law.
The ruling states the federal government cannot compel state officers to enforce federal immigration law.
The suit targeted four state laws and two Denver laws designed to limit immigration enforcement resources and safeguard immigrant rights.
The decision strengthens local control over immigration policy, continuing DOJ setbacks in other cities.