A political clash is brewing in Montana, as Governor Greg Gianforte and Attorney General Austin Knudsen have launched an investigation into the city of Helena’s recent actions regarding federal immigration enforcement.
The investigation stems from a resolution passed by the Helena City Commission, directing the local police department to limit assistance to federal immigration authorities – including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) – unless legally mandated. The resolution also restricts information sharing and encourages federal agents to identify themselves while unmasked.
Montana already has a firm stance on this issue, having enacted a statewide ban on “sanctuary cities” and “sanctuary-jurisdictional policies” with House Bill 200 in 2021. This law was designed to ensure full cooperation between state and local agencies with federal immigration law enforcement.
The law explicitly prohibits any local rules or practices that would limit cooperation with ICE, restrict the sharing of immigration information, or prevent local law enforcement from honoring federal detainers. It aims to prevent any jurisdiction from offering even limited protection to individuals residing in the country without documentation.
Attorney General Knudsen’s office has the authority to investigate potential violations of this law, and the penalties for non-compliance are significant. Violating jurisdictions could face fines of up to $10,000 per day, and even the withholding of state funds.
Governor Gianforte expressed strong disapproval of Helena’s resolution, stating that Montana “does not tolerate defiance” and fully supports its law enforcement officers. He emphasized that the state law explicitly forbids any agency from refusing to cooperate with federal immigration authorities.
The governor and attorney general view the Helena resolution as a potential breach of state law, signaling a clear message to all local governments across Montana: adherence to the sanctuary city ban is not optional. The investigation into Helena is intended to serve as a warning to any other jurisdiction considering similar policies.
Attorney General Knudsen underscored the commitment to upholding the law, stating that his office is dedicated to working with federal partners to ensure public safety and keep Montana families secure. The investigation is now underway, promising a decisive response to Helena’s actions.
