Document Type

Blog Post

Publication Date

4-29-2025

Abstract

Section 287(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, first implemented in 1996, authorizes local and state law enforcement agencies to enter into formal agreements with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (“ICE”).  These agreements, known as Memoranda of Agreements (“MOAs”), deputize selected officers to perform certain federal immigration enforcement functions.  There are two enforcement models: the jail enforcement model, in which officers identify individuals for ICE after an arrest, and the more controversial task force model, which allows officers to initiate immigration enforcement in the field—during traffic stops, patrols, or other community interactions. Once trained and certified by ICE, local officers can issue immigration detainers, collect biometric data, and initiate removal proceedings, often without a judicial warrant.  Participation is voluntary, but ICE provides training, resources, and support, incentivizing cooperation even in jurisdictions with no history of immigration enforcement.

This post was originally published on the Cardozo Journal of Equal Rights and Social Justice website on April 29, 2025. The original post can be accessed via the Archived Link button above.

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