ICE proposes liability insurance to boost local police participation in immigration enforcement

A planning document reviewed by one outlet reveals that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement is preparing to provide liability insurance to state and local police departments that have entered 287(g) agreements, which permit ICE to deputize local officers for certain immigration tasks. The proposed policy would furnish up to $500,000 in personal liability protection, with ICE covering the cost after departments initially pay the premium.

This initiative seeks to mitigate financial exposure from lawsuits over alleged misconduct, including legal fees, settlements and judgments. Since President Donald Trump assumed office in January 2025, more than 2,300 police departments nationwide have signed 287(g) agreements, the largest number recorded. ICE hopes the insurance incentive will encourage additional jurisdictions to partner with the federal agency. The document does not indicate when the program might be approved or become effective.