Boise is not a sanctuary city: Idaho Code 67-7201 prohibits sanctuary policies statewide, while Boise's informal Welcoming Initiative offers immigrant resources without limiting cooperation with federal ICE detainers.
Idaho Code 67-7201, enacted in 2019, prohibits any Idaho city, county, or other political subdivision from adopting policies that materially limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities, effectively banning sanctuary status. Boise therefore cannot direct Boise Police to refuse ICE detainers, decline 287(g) cooperation, or shield individuals from federal immigration enforcement. The city does run an informal Welcoming Initiative coordinated through the Mayor's Office of Community Engagement, providing language access services, refugee resettlement support, and community resources. Boise has historically welcomed refugees, particularly through the International Rescue Committee, but maintains police cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.
Local officials adopting prohibited sanctuary policies face removal under Idaho Code 67-7201; the law also authorizes private citizens to seek injunctive relief against violating jurisdictions.
See how Boise's sanctuary policy preemption rules stack up against other locations.
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