Immigration Policy in Massachusetts (2026)
5 rules on the books across Massachusetts, 5 cities and counties. Select a rule to read the full details.
Severity: Few Restrictions · Light Restrictions · Some Restrictions · Significant Restrictions · Heavy Restrictions
Sanctuary Policy Preemption
Whether your state prohibits cities from limiting cooperation with federal immigration enforcement, and what penalties apply to non-compliant local policies.
Cambridge
Heavy RestrictionsCambridge's Welcoming Community Ordinance, Municipal Code Chapter 2.129, bars police from arresting or detaining anyone…
Read full rule →Boston
Significant RestrictionsBoston's Trust Act, codified at § 11-1.9, bars city law enforcement from detaining someone solely on a civil…
Read full rule →Lawrence
Significant RestrictionsLawrence's TRUST Ordinance, Chapter 9.20, bars city police from detaining or arresting anyone based on immigration…
Read full rule →Somerville
Significant RestrictionsSomerville bars city employees and police from enforcing federal civil immigration law, inquiring about immigration…
Read full rule →Springfield
Significant RestrictionsSpringfield, Massachusetts city officials cannot question people about immigration status or hold someone past their…
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