Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell filed an amicus brief supporting Boston’s Trust Act, the city’s sanctuary policy. The brief responds to a federal lawsuit claiming the ordinance, which limits local cooperation with federal civil immigration enforcement, is unlawful. Campbell’s filing argues that the Trust Act complies with both state and federal law and serves as a tool for public safety.
Campbell said in a press release, "The Trust Act promotes public safety and fosters trust between local law enforcement and the communities they serve, helping to make Boston the safest major city in America." Her brief emphasizes that the policy aligns with federalism principles, allowing states and cities to implement measures that protect residents while remaining within state and federal law. Campbell’s position references the 2017 Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court decision in Lunn v. Commonwealth, which ruled that state and local officers cannot detain individuals solely based on federal immigration requests.
AG Campbell argues that public safety is strengthened when immigrant communities trust local law enforcement. She notes that if local authorities act as extensions of federal immigration enforcement, residents may hesitate to report crimes or use public services due to fear of deportation. Policies like the Trust Act, she states, help ensure that all residents can engage with law enforcement and community services without risking immigration consequences.
The Massachusetts Attorney General’s filing clarifies that the Trust Act does not prevent local authorities from participating in criminal immigration enforcement. Instead, it sets boundaries intended to improve community relations and public safety. In a press release, Campbell stated, "By allowing all residents to report crimes, serve as witnesses, obtain healthcare, and otherwise interact with local officials without fear that doing so may cause themselves or loved ones to be deported, the Trust Act is key to advancing public safety and public health."
The future of Boston's Trust Act now rests with the courts. AG Campbell has requested that the lawsuit be dismissed, emphasizing Massachusetts’ authority to maintain local policies that allow residents to interact with law enforcement without fear of federal immigration enforcement.
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