Trump Administration Lifts Ban on Immigration Raids at Schools, Churches, and Hospitals

The Trump administration has overturned a decade-old policy that prohibited immigration enforcement at schools, churches, and hospitals, granting Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents authority to carry out arrests in these previously protected areas.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which oversees ICE, announced the policy reversal, emphasizing the importance of eliminating what it described as “safe havens” for individuals evading arrest. Acting DHS Secretary Benjamin Huffman outlined the changes, which include the reinstatement of expedited removal nationwide. Under this directive, ICE can swiftly deport undocumented individuals who are unable to prove they have lived continuously in the United States for over two years.

“Criminals will no longer be able to hide in America’s schools and churches to avoid arrest,” the DHS said in a statement. “The Trump administration will not tie the hands of our brave law enforcement, trusting them instead to use common sense.”

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The decision is part of a broader immigration crackdown that also includes suspending the refugee system, blocking access to an app that facilitates entry into the U.S., and enhancing cooperation between ICE and local governments. Nationwide operations targeting undocumented individuals are set to begin immediately, according to Tom Homan, Trump’s border czar.

The policy shift has drawn sharp criticism from advocacy groups and religious leaders. The Center for Law and Social Policy warned that the changes could deter immigrant families from seeking essential services like medical care, education, and disaster relief. The organization also expressed concern that the policy might lead to traumatic encounters between children and immigration officers.

Religious leaders have also voiced strong opposition. During a sermon at an inaugural prayer service, the Episcopal bishop of Washington urged the administration to reconsider, calling for compassion toward vulnerable populations and families seeking safety in the United States.

Despite the backlash, the administration has defended the move as necessary to ensure effective law enforcement. Critics, however, fear that the change will further marginalize immigrant communities and undermine trust in vital institutions.