January 20, 2026

Kentucky Lawmakers Propose New Immigration Enforcement Legislation

Frankfort, Kentucky, January 20, 2026

Kentucky lawmakers are debating a new proposal that allows state and local police to partner with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for immigration enforcement. While proponents argue it would enhance local law enforcement capabilities, critics express concerns over local control and public safety. As the General Assembly prepares for review, similar measures are being considered in other states, reflecting a national trend toward stricter immigration laws.

Frankfort, Kentucky – Kentucky lawmakers are taking significant steps in immigration enforcement with the introduction of new legislation that requires state and local police agencies to collaborate with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This proposal aims to create formal agreements between local law enforcement and federal authorities, thereby enhancing the state’s capabilities in immigration enforcement.

During a meeting of the Interim Joint Committee on Local Government, Representative T.J. Roberts of Burlington advocated for the proposal, suggesting that it would provide Kentucky police agencies with crucial federal resources and funding. The objective is to allow local officers to be “deputized for limited immigration enforcement,” which would include instances like traffic stops where there is “reasonable suspicion” to further investigate a driver’s or passengers’ immigration status. This initiative reflects a broader push to invigorate local law enforcement efforts with federal support.

However, not all lawmakers are on board. Democratic representatives have voiced serious concerns regarding the implications of such measures. Representative Rachel Roarx from Louisville underscored the importance of local control, arguing that law enforcement agencies should have the autonomy to allocate resources based on their unique needs and priorities. Similar apprehensions have been echoed by Governor Andy Beshear, who has criticized the proposed legislation. He argues that forcing local law enforcement to partner with ICE could potentially compromise public safety, especially since local officers may lack the necessary training in immigration law to handle such empowerment properly.

The introduction of this legislation coincides with a national trend, with various states considering similar measures to reinforce immigration laws. For instance, recent developments in Texas have shown a mix of support and opposition among sheriffs regarding an analogous bill requiring collaboration with ICE. As the Kentucky General Assembly prepares to reconvene in January, the proposed bills will undergo review, and their outcomes could greatly influence the dynamic between local enforcement agencies and federal immigration authorities here in the Bluegrass State.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the proposed legislation in Kentucky?

The proposed legislation requires state and local police agencies in Kentucky to enter into formal agreements with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to enhance immigration enforcement.

Who introduced the proposal?

Representative T.J. Roberts of Burlington presented the proposal during a meeting of the Interim Joint Committee on Local Government.

What are the concerns raised by Democratic lawmakers?

Democratic members, including Representative Rachel Roarx of Louisville, expressed concerns about local control and the allocation of resources, emphasizing that local law enforcement agencies are best suited to determine their own priorities.

What is Governor Andy Beshear’s stance on the proposal?

Governor Andy Beshear criticized the proposal, stating that it could make the state less safe due to the lack of specific training in immigration law for officers.

How does this proposal fit into national trends?

The proposal aligns with a broader national trend where lawmakers are considering similar measures to enforce immigration laws, as seen in other states like Texas.

Key Features of the Proposed Legislation

Feature	Description
Formal Agreements	State and local police agencies must enter into formal agreements with ICE to enhance immigration enforcement.
Deputization of Officers	Local officers would be deputized for limited immigration enforcement during specific situations, such as traffic stops with reasonable suspicion.
Resource Allocation	The proposal aims to provide Kentucky police agencies with additional federal resources and funding through these agreements.
Local Control Concerns	Democratic lawmakers express concerns about local control and the allocation of resources, emphasizing that local law enforcement agencies are best suited to determine their own priorities.
Governor’s Criticism	Governor Andy Beshear criticized the proposal, stating that it could make the state less safe due to the lack of specific training in immigration law for officers.
National Context	The proposal aligns with a broader national trend where lawmakers are considering similar measures to enforce immigration laws, as seen in other states like Texas.