New Hampshire Senate Approves Ban on Sanctuary City Policies, Sends Bill to Governor

CONCORD, N.H. — The New Hampshire Senate on Thursday approved legislation prohibiting sanctuary city policies by a 15-8 vote and sent the measures to Gov. Kelly Ayotte’s desk for signature. Sponsored by Sen. Bill Gannon, R-Sandown, the package consists of Senate Bill 71, Senate Bill 62 and House Bill 511, all aimed at strengthening cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities.

In a statement issued after the votes, Gannon said the bills “will keep illegal criminals out of New Hampshire and help ensure the safety of Granite Staters.” He added, “Sanctuary City policies have devastated communities in states across the nation, but New Hampshire won’t be following suit. My colleagues and I voted to pass two bills banning this practice, which we’ve worked tirelessly on for the safety of our state.”

Under SB 62-FN, state, county and municipal agencies may formally partner with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). SB 71-FN bars local governments from adopting any policy that would obstruct cooperation with federal immigration officials. HB 511-FN requires law enforcement to honor immigration detainers and similarly prohibits state and local entities from blocking enforcement of federal immigration law.

Gannon pointed to challenges faced by larger cities, saying that “countless other cities, like Boston and New York City, are struggling to contain this problem by housing illegal aliens in schools and airports. We do not want these lawless policies in New Hampshire.” He noted that the new measures “further limit illegal activity” by obligating local agencies to assist federal authorities.

The Senate agreement to a House amendment on SB 71 incorporated provisions from SB 62, streamlining the package. Each bill passed by the same 15-8 margin.

Supporters of the legislation argue it will deter unlawful entry and enhance public safety by ensuring that individuals arrested for serious offenses remain in custody pending federal review. “These proactive efforts will keep illegal criminals out of New Hampshire,” Gannon said.

Opponents countered that the bills could undermine trust between immigrant communities and law enforcement, potentially discouraging crime reporting. They argued that local police resources would be diverted from community policing to immigration enforcement, a responsibility traditionally held by federal agencies.

With legislative approval secured, the sanctuary city ban package now awaits Gov. Ayotte’s signature to become law. If signed, New Hampshire will join a growing number of states enforcing full cooperation with ICE and prohibiting municipal non-cooperation policies.