FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 22, 2025
MEDIA CONTACT
Emily Hagan-Howe, [email protected]
MONTPELIER, VT. – Yesterday, Governor Phil Scott signed S.44: An act relating to authorization to enter into certain immigration agreements. The act removes an existing loophole that would have allowed law enforcement agencies to enter into collaborative agreements with federal immigration authorities without the governor’s approval in a declared state or federal emergency.
The following statement can be attributed to Falko Schilling, Advocacy Director of the ACLU of Vermont.
“We are pleased to see Governor Scott sign S.44, taking another important step forward in building the state's firewall against federal overreach. This closes a loophole which could have allowed rogue law enforcement agencies to begin working with federal immigration authorities without the consent and advice of the governor and attorney general.
There's more we need to do to protect our immigrant friends and neighbors here in Vermont, but this action will have real tangible impacts in this moment of great fear and uncertainty. We appreciate the collaboration and support from the legislature and the administration in working on this bill and look forward to continuing our efforts to better protect everyone who calls this state home, regardless of immigration status.”
