District of Columbia Federal Immigration Compliance Act

S. 1522, the District of Columbia Federal Immigration Compliance Act, would prevent Washington D.C. from enacting or maintaining laws, policies, or practices that restrict cooperation with federal immigration authorities. If enacted, the bill would prohibit D.C. from being classified as a sanctuary jurisdiction and would require D.C. government officials to share information about individuals' immigration status with federal authorities and to comply with Department of Homeland Security detainer requests.

The bill includes limited exceptions that would allow D.C. to protect crime victims and witnesses. Under these exceptions, D.C. officials would not be required to share immigration status information about or comply with detainer requests for individuals who come forward as victims of or witnesses to criminal offenses. The bill would also establish federal oversight mechanisms to ensure D.C. compliance with federal immigration law, potentially including reporting requirements and compliance assessments.

Currently, the bill is under consideration by the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. A companion bill has been introduced in the House. If passed by both chambers and signed by the President, the legislation would significantly change how D.C. law enforcement and other government agencies interact with federal immigration authorities.