House committee tables bill that would require jails to notify ICE before releasing people with detainers

RICHMOND — The House Public Safety Committee considered HB 14‑59, a bill that would require Virginia jails and the Department of Corrections to notify U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement before releasing individuals who have active immigration detainers.

A committee member speaking in support said the measure is intended to ensure that enforcement actions occur in controlled settings by trained personnel rather than on residential streets, which proponents argued reduces risks to officers, communities and detained individuals.

Opposition testimony came from immigrant‑rights organizations and civic groups. Monica Sarmiento, executive director of the Virginia Coalition for Immigrant Rights, said many people detained have no criminal record and raised concerns about racial profiling and community harm. The League of Women Voters of Virginia also testified in opposition, citing public‑safety and civil‑liberties concerns.

After public comment and questions, a motion to lay the bill on the table carried by recorded vote, 11 in favor and 6 opposed. Committee members noted the bill does not require detention beyond lawful release or turn local officers into federal agents, but opponents said the notification requirement increases the risk of overreach.

Laying the bill on the table means the committee did not advance it at this meeting; proponents said the measure seeks to reduce the risk of enforcement occurring outside secure facilities.