MassGOP Endorses Legislation to Restore Court Authority to Honor ICE Detainers

Boston, MA - The Massachusetts Republican Party fully supports and commends the latest legislation introduced by Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr, House Minority Leader Brad Jones, and the Republican caucus.

Recent reports have revealed cases of illegal immigrants sexually assaulting minors. In several instances, ICE had issued detainers for the perpetrators. However, due to statutory gaps, these individuals could not be held or transferred to federal authorities. Instead, they were released back into the community, posing a continued threat to public safety.

This critical legislation seeks to authorize courts to honor ICE detainers—a power eliminated by the 2017 Lunn v. Commonwealth decision. That ruling barred state court officers from detaining individuals solely on ICE requests, resulting in dangerous offenders—some who have already been convicted of serious crimes—being released with the potential to reoffend. The proposed measure reinstates the ability of court officials to work with immigration authorities, preventing high-risk individuals from evading accountability.

MassGOP Chair Amy Carnevale emphasized the urgency of this legislation, stating: “In what other country can an illegal immigrant, charged with aggravated rape of a child, be arraigned and set free on bail without coordination with immigration authorities? This policy endangers public safety, and every day the legislature delays action further threatens our communities.”

Carnevale concluded with a call to action: “I commend the Republican caucus for introducing this essential legislation. Now the full legislature must act to empower courts to honor ICE detainers, safeguard our communities, and do what’s right for the people of Massachusetts. This is not a partisan issue—it’s about protecting public safety.”

The MassGOP urges the legislature to pass this bill without delay to ensure justice is served and to prevent further harm to Massachusetts residents.