Return Federal Funds from Sanctuary Cities

Official: Recouping Funds from Sanctuary Cities Act of 2025

IntroducedJune 6, 2025

Why This Matters

This bill aims to make sanctuary jurisdictions return federal money if they do not cooperate with federal immigration laws. It encourages these areas to change their policies on immigration enforcement.

If you live in a sanctuary city, your local government might have to return federal funds if they don't change their immigration policies.

Affects: Sanctuary city officials and local governments that have policies limiting cooperation with federal immigration authorities.

What changes is this bill making?

1. This bill requires sanctuary jurisdictions to return federal funds they received during certain periods. 2. Sanctuary jurisdictions are areas that limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. 3. The bill applies to funds received starting five fiscal years before the bill's effective date. 4. Jurisdictions can avoid returning funds if they notify the Attorney General and change their policies. 5. Certain crime-related federal funds are exempt from this requirement.

Who is affected?

Sanctuary city officials and local governments that have policies limiting cooperation with federal immigration authorities.