Overview

• The Department of Justice has escalated its sanctuary campaign by sending formal demand letters to jurisdictions identified under President Trump’s April executive order, warning of potential legal and financial penalties.
• Bondi warned California that the state risks suspension or termination of federal grants and contracts unless Gov. Gavin Newsom rescinds sanctuary city policies.
• Recipients, including 32 cities and several counties, must confirm compliance and outline steps to eliminate sanctuary policies by an August 19 deadline.
• Federal agencies, guided by the DOJ and DHS, are examining their statutory authority to attach immigration-enforcement requirements to grants, contracts and other funding streams.
• Sanctuary jurisdictions such as Los Angeles, New York City and Seattle have pledged to challenge the letters in court, arguing the administration is exceeding its executive powers.