Colorado Counties Sue State Over Sanctuary Immigration Laws

Douglas and El Paso counties challenge Colorado's statutes that prevent local cooperation with federal immigration authorities, citing constitutional violations.

Douglas and El Paso counties filed a lawsuit against Colorado, arguing that sanctuary city laws are unconstitutional and prevent local law enforcement from cooperating with federal immigration authorities.
The counties claim the laws violate the Colorado Constitution’s provisions on intergovernmental relationships and distribution of powers.
Officials argue that these restrictions hinder their ability to address public safety concerns and manage local resources effectively.
The lawsuit targets specific Colorado House Bills from 2019 and 2023 that restrict local authorities from detaining immigrants based on federal detainers.
Local governments express a need to prioritize the safety and quality of life for legal residents amidst an ongoing national immigration crisis.