Governor Healey and AG Campbell State ICE Must Have Judicial Warrant to Enter Dormitories

BOSTON MASSACHUSETTS, Governor Maura Healey and Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell are reminding students and faculty across the state that federal immigration agents do not have the authority to enter non-public campus facilities, including dormitories, without a valid judicial warrant or judicial order.

In a joint statement, Governor Healey said it is important for students and staff at Massachusetts colleges and universities to understand their rights. She emphasized that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) does not have the right to enter private facilities, including dormitories, without a judge-signed warrant.

Attorney General Campbell stated that when federal immigration agents enter private campus housing without a judicial warrant, it does not meet legal requirements. She noted that individuals have the right to request and review a judge-signed warrant before allowing entry. Campbell added that her office is in contact with colleges and universities to provide guidance and support aimed at protecting students, faculty, and staff.

According to the release, the guidance applies broadly to public and private entities that provide education and childcare services, including childcare programs, K-12 schools, colleges, and universities.

In January, Governor Healey signed an Executive Order directing the Executive Office of Education to coordinate with colleges and universities to ensure they have policies and procedures in place regarding interactions with federal immigration officers. The order requires a judicial warrant or judicial order for entry into non-public areas. Updated guidance for schools is expected to be released soon.

Attorney General Campbell has also published a “Know Your Rights” guide intended to help immigrants, families, and communities understand the legal framework governing ICE actions. The guide addresses common questions about federal immigration enforcement, the role of local law enforcement, and resources available to service providers, healthcare institutions, schools, and higher education facilities.

Additionally, Governor Healey has filed legislation that would restrict ICE activity in certain locations, including courthouses, schools, childcare centers, hospitals, and places of worship. The proposed legislation would also address the deployment of out-of-state National Guard units within Massachusetts and allow parents to pre-arrange guardianship for children in the event of detention or deportation.

The Governor’s Executive Order further prohibits new 287(g) agreements unless deemed necessary for public safety, restricts civil immigration arrests in non-public areas of state facilities, and bars the use of state property for immigration enforcement staging activities.