Statement on the Governor’s Executive Directive Ending Statewide 287(g) Agreements in VA

We are thrilled to see the Governor take this important step to sever the statewide 287(g) agreements that do nothing for community safety and harm our immigrant neighbors. This Executive Directive is a strong first step toward rebuilding community trust across Virginia.  
 
It is important that action does not stop here. The directive does not end or prohibit 287(g) agreements at the local level, and existing contracts between ICE and local sheriffs or regional jails remain in force unless independently terminated. People in these localities are still subject to fear-based policing, diversion of resources and staff from local community needs, and taxpayers footing the bill for legal liability in regard to racial profiling and constitutional challenges. We call on the General Assembly and the Governor to support HB1438, which will end all 287(g) agreements in VA.   

Learn more about local collaboration with ICE at https://justice4all.org/icecontracts