Iowa Bill Makes Felony for Police Ignoring ICE Requests

A proposed bill in Iowa would make it a felony for law enforcement officers who fail to comply with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detainer requests, which require local police to hold individuals for 48 hours after their release while federal agents determine custody. The bill, House Study Bill 285, would impose a Class D felony charge, punishable by up to five years in prison and loss of certification for officers who knowingly defy these immigration laws. Supporters argue the legislation is necessary for public safety, while opponents caution it could lead to unintended consequences for officers making honest mistakes. Notably, the bill follows a controversy involving Winneshiek County Sheriff Dan Marx, who publicly declared he would not comply with ICE requests without a judicial warrant. This legislation was brought forth after another related bill requiring written agreements with ICE was shelved due to law enforcement concerns about resource limitations. The ongoing debate highlights the complex dynamics between local law enforcement and federal immigration policy in Iowa.