Montana’s Republican attorney general announced on Wednesday that he is investigating the city of Helena for potential violations of the state’s sanctuary city ban. This comes after city officials passed a resolution aimed at limiting cooperation with federal immigration authorities.
The investigation is taking place in the context of increasing national tensions surrounding President Donald Trump’s strict immigration enforcement policies, which have led to widespread protests across various cities. Trump has emphasized his intent to cut off federal funding to states that house 'sanctuary cities' defying his directives on immigration enforcement.
Attorney General Austin Knudsen expressed that Helena could face a fine of up to $10,000 for every five days it is found in violation of a state law mandating local authorities to support federal immigration enforcement efforts.
The contentious resolution, approved by Helena's City Council, states that officials shall not disclose sensitive information, such as an individual’s immigration status or nationality, to outside agencies.
During a press conference, Knudsen remarked, “This is clearly the City Council of Helena thumbing its nose at the Montana Legislature.”
Helena officials have stated they had not yet received official notice regarding the investigation. They defended their resolution, highlighting that it was passed after careful consideration of all relevant local, state, and federal laws and that it aligns with legal requirements.
The city emphasized its commitment to adhere to both federal and state laws. Nationwide, nearly half of U.S. states have laws prohibiting sanctuary cities.
At the announcement of the investigation, Knudsen was accompanied by Republican Gov. Greg Gianforte, who expressed concern that federal agents often find themselves in perilous situations, referencing the deadly confrontations involving federal immigration officers in Minnesota that resulted in tragic outcomes for protesters.
Gianforte denounced the incidents but maintained that local governments are still bound by state law and cannot simply disregard it.
