President Donald Trump announced that his administration will begin cutting federal payments to cities that maintain sanctuary policies starting February 1.
Under the policy, jurisdictions that limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities will see reductions in certain federal funds. The move is intended to pressure local governments to comply more closely with federal immigration enforcement efforts.
Trump said sanctuary cities undermine national immigration law and public safety by shielding undocumented immigrants from federal authorities. His administration has made increased immigration enforcement a central priority.
Several city leaders have criticized the decision, warning that funding cuts could impact essential public services. Despite that, the administration says the policy will move forward as planned unless cities change their approach.