The Minnesota Senate narrowly approved a bill Monday that restricts federal immigration agents from wearing masks and allows residents to sue over alleged constitutional violations related to immigration enforcement. The vote was 34-33 along party lines, and the legislation now advances to the House, where it faces an uphill battle amid a split between Democrats and Republicans.
The bill also instructs schools, day cares, and healthcare facilities to deny access to agents conducting civil immigration enforcement without a signed judicial warrant, with some exceptions. It prohibits certain civil immigration arrests of individuals attending court proceedings and grants state officials the authority to investigate deaths involving federal agents’ use of force. Additionally, it creates penalties or civil liability for failure to provide aid after a shooting.
Democratic Sen. Omar Fateh, a co-sponsor, criticized federal raids in Minnesota, describing them as displays of force against immigrant communities. Fateh told the Minnesota Star Tribune that agents “lied,” broke down doors without warrants, denied due process, and used force against peaceful protesters.
The legislation comes amid increased scrutiny of immigration enforcement following the fatal shootings of two U.S. citizens during raids in Minneapolis in January. Several Democratic-led states, including New York, California, New Jersey, and Massachusetts, have pursued restrictions on immigration agents, with some laws challenged in federal courts. California lawmakers passed a mask ban for agents, but parts of the law faced legal hurdles.
Republicans criticized the bill, arguing that cooperation with federal immigration authorities is essential. GOP Sen. Michael Kreun told the Minnesota Star Tribune that more collaboration between state and federal officials would reduce the need for enforcement on the streets. Senate Republican Leader Mark Johnson warned the legislation could lead to costly litigation and increased illegal immigration, saying it would put Minnesota on a collision course with federal authorities.
The bill’s mask ban includes exceptions for medical needs. The Department of Homeland Security did not respond to requests for comment, according to Fox News Digital.
Jon Ross Myers is the executive editor and publisher of the Mississippi News Network, Mississippi's largest digital only media company. He can be reached at editor@tippahnews.com
