|
|
1/29/2026
|
Leader Ciccone issues statement on legislation concerning ICE operations within Rhode Island
|
 STATE HOUSE – Senate Majority Leader Frank A. Ciccone (D-Dist. 7, Providence, Johnston) is issuing the following statement concerning legislation to be introduced that would ensure that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers conduct their operations within Rhode Island in accordance with the rights and protections enshrined within the United States Constitution:
“Along with other Senators, I recognize the climate fostered by the current federal administration and the fear generated by the actions of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, which now operates under expanded authority with reduced—or, in some cases, absent—safeguards. In an effort to protect the residents of Rhode Island, some of my colleagues and I will introduce legislation this year requiring federal immigration agents to conduct their duties in full compliance with the United States Constitution.
“As has been observed across the country, there has been a significant departure from established legal standards. Federal immigration agents have undermined the protections afforded by the Fourth Amendment, which guards against unreasonable searches and seizures, and the Fifth Amendment, which guarantees due process and equal protection under the law.
“Under constitutional requirements, an officer may arrest an individual without a warrant only when there is probable cause or reasonable suspicion to believe that the individual is unlawfully present in the United States and is likely to evade apprehension before a warrant can be obtained.
In the coming weeks, the Senate will consider legislation addressing ICE arrests, including the locations in which such arrests may occur and the requirement that agents possess a valid warrant or judicial order authorizing the arrest.
“The legislation does not seek to obstruct federal agents from carrying out lawful arrests supported by appropriate legal authority. However, it is our responsibility to ensure that agents who conduct arrests without warrants or without reasonable suspicion are held accountable.
“With respect to enforcement practices, White House officials and advisors have asserted that ICE officers are entitled to “federal immunity” or “absolute immunity” when acting within the scope of their duties. Many of us dispute the notion that law enforcement officers are entitled to absolute immunity, while acknowledging that the Supremacy Clause presents challenges for local prosecution of federal agents. Although we anticipate opposition from the federal administration, I remain steadfast in my position that these laws are constitutional, that the State possesses the authority to ensure federal immigration officers act within constitutional bounds, and that we have an obligation to protect the constitutional rights of all Rhode Islanders,” said Leader Ciccone.
For more information, contact:
Greg Pare, Director of Communications for the Senate
State House Room 112
Providence, RI 02903
(401) 276-5558
|
|