Montana's Republican Attorney General Austin Knudsen announced on Wednesday that he is investigating the city of Helena for potential violations of the state's sanctuary city ban. The inquiry follows a recent resolution passed by city officials that discourages cooperation with federal immigration authorities.
This investigation emerges during a national climate of heightened tensions over aggressive immigration enforcement measures enacted under President Donald Trump. In his administration, Trump has indicated plans to cut federal funding to states harboring “sanctuary cities” that resist his strict immigration policies.
As per Knudsen, Helena could face a fine of up to $10,000 for every five days it is found in violation of a 2021 state law mandating local authorities to cooperate with federal immigration officials.
The city’s resolution emphasizes that city officials shall not disclose any sensitive information to outside agencies, including individuals' immigration status or national origin.
This is clearly the City Council of Helena thumbing its nose at the Montana Legislature, stated Knudsen during a press conference regarding the investigation.
Helena officials responded by stating they had not yet received official notification of the investigation but were aware of Knudsen's announcement. They reiterated that the resolution was passed following a thorough assessment of relevant local, state, and federal laws. The city expressed confidence that the resolution aligns with legal requirements, affirming its commitment to uphold all applicable federal and state laws.
According to the Federation for American Immigration Reform, nearly half of U.S. states impose restrictions on sanctuary cities. The governor of Montana, Greg Gianforte, supported Knudsen's stance, noting that federal agents often face difficult situations that have led to casualties, referencing the tragic deaths of protesters by federal immigration officers.
Gianforte characterized these incidents as tragedies but maintained that they do not grant local governments the authority to ignore state laws.
