CHELSEA, Mass. — Gov. Maura Healey signed legislation Wednesday that she and lawmakers say provides the strongest immigrant protections in the country.
The new law (H 5620), known as the PROTECT Act, arose as a top priority for lawmakers and the governor amid intensified immigration law enforcement efforts led by President Donald Trump. The law expands protections against warrantless civil immigration arrests at courthouses as well as public schools, childcare centers and healthcare facilities.
“I think we can agree that we need immigration reform in this country. We can agree we need controls at the border. We can also agree that ICE is so wrong in what it’s doing, and ICE needs to be stopped here in Massachusetts and around this country,” Healey said during a crowded bill signing ceremony in Chelsea at La Colaborativa, a nonprofit focused on supporting immigrants.
Under an emergency preamble lawmakers attached to the bill, the sweeping law will go into effect immediately.
“Today in Massachusetts, we’re saying enough is enough. We’re standing up for what’s right, and we’re taking action to protect people’s safety,” Healey said. “The PROTECT Act is the strongest law in the country to protect people from ICE and to protect public safety.”
“Strong public safety requires strong partnerships with the communities we serve,” said Public Safety and Security Secretary Gina Kwon. “The PROTECT Act helps preserve the trust that law enforcement, prosecutors and community organizations rely on to protect victims, investigate crimes and keep neighborhoods safe. When people feel safe, our Commonwealth is stronger.”
This legislation is a crucial piece of the Healey-Driscoll Administration’s overall strategy to protect Massachusetts communities and stand up to the harm caused by President Trump and ICE.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.
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