In a significant policy shift, the Portland City Council has voted to expand its non-cooperation ordinance with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The new ordinance, passed with a 7-1 vote, extends existing restrictions beyond the police department to encompass all city employees, including school staff, bus drivers, and Parks and Recreation personnel.
Under the updated policy, city employees are prohibited from assisting federal agencies with immigration enforcement operations unless mandated by law. Additionally, federal agents are barred from accessing non-public areas of municipal buildings for immigration-related activities, and city resources cannot be used to support federal immigration enforcement.
Mayor Mark Dion cast the sole dissenting vote, expressing concerns about the potential vulnerability of city workers when confronted by federal agents. He proposed an amendment to protect staff from discipline if they allowed access due to intimidation, but the amendment did not pass.
Supporters of the ordinance argue that it provides clearer guidance to city staff and aims to reduce fear within immigrant communities. The policy aligns Portland with other Maine municipalities, such as Lewiston, that have implemented similar measures to limit local involvement in federal immigration enforcement.
The ordinance is set to take effect in 30 days, marking a continued commitment by Portland to support its diverse community and clarify the role of local government in immigration matters.