Federal Lawsuit Dismissed

A federal judge has dismissed a lawsuit brought by the U.S. Department of Justice against the state of Colorado and the city of Denver regarding their immigration laws. The lawsuit alleged that the state and city’s policies, often referred to as “sanctuary laws,” violated the U.S. Constitution.

What the Laws Do

At the heart of the dispute were four Colorado state laws and two Denver ordinances. These laws limit the use of state and local resources for federal immigration enforcement and aim to protect the rights and personal information of immigrants within the state. The Justice Department argued these laws interfered with federal immigration enforcement efforts.

Judge’s Ruling and Legal Precedent

U.S. District Judge Gordon P. Gallagher granted requests from Colorado and Denver officials to dismiss the lawsuit on Tuesday. Judge Gallagher cited a 1997 Supreme Court case, stating the federal government cannot “dragoon” state officers into enforcing federal law. He concluded that “Colorado and Denver have the right to refuse to expend their resources to implement a federal regulatory program.”

Attorney General Phil Weiser’s Response

Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser celebrated the ruling, stating, “Colorado gets to make a choice: how will our law enforcement operate in Colorado. The federal government, they don't get to make that choice for us.” He also expressed frustration with the need to repeatedly defend the constitution against what he called a “lawless and bullying administration.”

Weiser noted a significant increase in legal challenges during the Trump administration, stating he has been involved in 63 cases in just over a year, compared to 19 cases during the first Trump administration’s entire term.

Denver Mayor Mike Johnston’s Statement

Denver Mayor Mike Johnston also welcomed the decision. “Today’s ruling makes clear that we cannot be required to use local resources to enforce federal policies,” Johnston said.

Broader Context of DOJ Lawsuits

The Department of Justice has filed similar lawsuits against other jurisdictions with policies perceived as hindering immigration enforcement, including Los Angeles, New York City, Minnesota, and Chicago. A federal judge previously dismissed a similar case challenging Chicago’s laws last year.

Understanding “Sanctuary” Policies

There is no strict legal definition of “sanctuary policies” or “sanctuary cities.” Generally, these terms refer to limitations on local cooperation with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). ICE relies on state and local assistance for deportations and requests that local law enforcement alert them to individuals they wish to deport and hold them until federal authorities can take custody.

The Department of Justice did not immediately respond to a request for comment regarding the ruling.