287(g) agreements are a hot topic when it comes to immigration policy in the United States. These agreements refer to partnerships between the federal government and local law enforcement agencies that allow for the identification and deportation of unauthorized immigrants.

Under a 287(g) agreement, participating local law enforcement agencies are given the authority to enforce federal immigration law. This means that they can detain individuals suspected of being in the country without proper documentation and turn them over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for deportation.

While these agreements were first authorized under the Immigration and Nationality Act in 1996, they have become increasingly controversial in recent years. Critics argue that they lead to racial profiling and can erode trust between immigrant communities and law enforcement.

Proponents of 287(g) agreements argue that they are an important tool in the fight against illegal immigration and help keep communities safer by removing criminal elements from the country.

Currently, there are more than 70 jurisdictions across the country that participate in 287(g) agreements. These agreements vary in their scope and level of involvement, but all allow for local law enforcement agencies to partner with ICE in the identification and deportation of unauthorized immigrants.

If you are concerned about the impact of 287(g) agreements on your community, it is important to educate yourself on the specifics of your local agreement and to voice your concerns to your elected officials. While the debate around these agreements is sure to continue, it is clear that they will remain an important part of the immigration policy landscape for the foreseeable future.