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Immigration Policy

Immigration Policy in Lexington, KY: What Residents Actually Need to Know

By CityRuleLookup Editorial Team

If you live in Lexington or are thinking about moving there, immigration policy are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Lexington has 2 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of immigration policy, and some of them might surprise you.

Sanctuary Policy Preemption

Lexington is not a sanctuary city. Kentucky enacted anti-sanctuary legislation requiring local jurisdictions to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement, and LFUCG complies with ICE detainers and information-sharing requests through Fayette County Detention Center.

Key details: Sanctuary status: Not declared. State law: KY anti-sanctuary statute. ICE detainers: Honored at jail. Penalty: Loss of state funds.

Local agencies refusing to honor ICE detainers risk loss of state grants, civil penalties, and removal of officials under Kentucky's anti-sanctuary enforcement provisions.

E-Verify Mandates

Kentucky requires E-Verify for state and local government contractors under KRS §157.413. Lexington contractors, vendors, and subcontractors on LFUCG public works must enroll in E-Verify and confirm employment eligibility for new hires assigned to public projects.

Key details: Statute: KRS §157.413. Scope: Public contractors only. Private employers: Not mandated. Operator: USCIS federal program.

Contractors lacking E-Verify enrollment cannot receive LFUCG contract awards; false certifications result in contract termination and debarment.

The Bottom Line

Lexington's immigration policy rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Lexington is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Lexington's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.