This bill mandates that local budgetary authorities must grant permission before law enforcement agencies in New Hampshire can enter into agreements with the federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to enforce federal immigration laws under Section 287(g). Specifically, the bill introduces a new section, RSA 106-P:2, which outlines the requirements for law enforcement agencies (LEAs) to seek approval from their governmental budget authority (GBA) before applying for such agreements. The LEAs must provide a formal estimate of the costs associated with participation, including employee hours, and the GBA retains the authority to terminate the agreement at any time based on cost considerations. Additionally, the bill requires LEAs to report quarterly to the GBA on their activities under the agreement, including detentions and costs incurred.
The bill also includes provisions that impose penalties for non-compliance, such as withholding state funding from any LEA that fails to adhere to the new requirements. The language of the bill replaces existing provisions in RSA 106-P:1, emphasizing the need for budgetary oversight in these agreements. Overall, the bill aims to ensure that local governments have a say in the financial implications of participating in federal immigration enforcement programs, thereby protecting their constituents' interests.