Rep. Cherfilus-McCormick Introduces the Keep Immigration Enforcement Out of Schools Act to Protect Students and Strengthen School Safety

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Representative Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick introduced the Keep Immigration Enforcement Out of Schools Act, to ensure that no student is targeted for immigration enforcement in or around their school and that educational institutions cannot be used to collect or share student information for enforcement purposes.

Across the country, educators and community groups have reported immigration enforcement activity near K-12 schools, bus stops, and college campuses. These incidents have created widespread fear among immigrant families and contributed to declining enrollment and attendance. In Florida, one county saw an unexpected drop of 6,600 students, with officials noting that many were children from immigrant households.

Recent news reports have further heightened these concerns, including a Florida community college student encountering immigration officers outside their home, and a separate incident in which a teacher attempted to report a young child to a fake ICE hotline.

"No child should fear going to school, and no parent should fear that a school records could put their family at risk. Schools must remain safe, trusted places for every student," said Rep. Cherfilus-McCormick. "This bill makes clear that immigration enforcement has no place in our classrooms, on our campuses, or in our student data systems."

TheKeep Immigration Enforcement Out of Schools Actwould:

• Prohibit schools from releasing any student information, including directory or contact information, for immigration enforcement purposes, closing a loophole that currently allows agencies to request records using administrative subpoenas without judicial oversight.

• Reinforce schools as protected, sanctuary spaces by preventing immigration enforcement actions based on student data and blocking DHS enforcement partnerships with educational institutions.

• Protect college and university students by prohibiting data-sharing agreements that facilitate immigration surveillance on campus.

Communities in South Florida are home to large Caribbean and Hispanic populations who rely on public education as a pathway to opportunity and are unfortunately targeted groups for immigration enforcement. Educators report that fear of enforcement is driving absenteeism and reducing participation in educational engagement.

"Our schools are already navigating enrollment declines and resource challenges. Families should not have to choose between their child's safety and their child's education," Rep. Cherfilus-McCormick added.

To track the bill, click here.

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