New Hampshire has formally enacted legislation prohibiting the creation of so-called “sanctuary cities,” following approval by both chambers of the state legislature. Governor Kelly Ayotte signed House Bill 511 and Senate Bill 62 during a ceremony at the State Capitol, making the measures official state law.
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The new laws require state and local law enforcement agencies to cooperate with federal immigration authorities and prevent municipalities from adopting policies that limit such cooperation. Governor Ayotte said the legislation fulfills a campaign promise and is intended to preserve public safety while maintaining consistency with federal immigration enforcement.
Ayotte emphasized that while she supports legal immigration, she believes sanctuary-style policies undermine federal law and create risks for communities. She cited neighboring Massachusetts as an example of policies she believes New Hampshire should avoid, arguing that proactive enforcement helps maintain the state’s low crime rates.
The bills passed largely along party lines in the Republican-controlled legislature. Supporters, including State Senator Bill Gannon and State Representative Joe Sweeney, said the measures provide clarity for law enforcement agencies and ensure coordination with federal officials when addressing criminal activity involving immigration violations.
According to the New Hampshire Municipal Association, no cities or towns in the state currently identify as sanctuary cities, though some communities describe themselves as “welcoming” to residents of all backgrounds. State lawmakers backing the legislation said the new law is preventative in nature. With the bills’ passage, New Hampshire becomes one of a growing number of states that have enacted explicit bans on sanctuary city policies.[/read]