No more sanctuary cities.
New Hampshire becomes the first New England state to outlaw sanctuary cities — standing firm against illegal immigration and for law and order.
CONCORD, NH – In a bold stand for border security and public safety, Republican Governor Kelly Ayotte has signed into law two powerful new measures—House Bill 511 and Senate Bill 62—that officially ban sanctuary city policies and restore full cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities.
These landmark bills make New Hampshire the first state in New England to formally reject sanctuary jurisdictions—a major victory for voters demanding secure borders and safer communities.
“New Hampshire will not go the way of Massachusetts and its billion-dollar illegal immigration crisis,” Governor Ayotte declared at Thursday’s press conference.
✅ What the New Laws Mean for You
- No more sanctuary policies: Local governments can’t block cooperation with federal immigration officials.
- ICE cooperation reinstated: Local police must honor immigration detainers—ensuring illegal aliens aren’t released back into communities.
- Criminals can’t hide: State and local agencies now have legal authority to assist federal agents in holding and transferring detainees.
- Legal consequences: Cities that refuse to comply can now be sued by the state attorney general.
This is a major shift that’s already being celebrated by conservative voters and law enforcement officials.
🇺🇸 A Big Win for Border Security and Taxpayers
Governor Ayotte, who served as U.S. Senator and New Hampshire Attorney General, ran on a promise to eliminate sanctuary city loopholes. These new laws fulfill that promise.
“There will be no sanctuary cities in New Hampshire. Period. End of story,” she said.
Many believe this move will ease the burden on taxpayers, who often foot the bill for illegal immigration in the form of public services, housing, healthcare, and education.
🚨 Democrats Cry Foul – But the Data Speaks for Itself
Critics on the Left are lashing out. ACLU of New Hampshire claims the laws may violate due process and foster fear in immigrant communities.
“These laws could encourage illegal detentions,” said Amanda Azad, ACLU Policy Director. “They’re harmful and erode community trust.”
But for conservatives and many older Americans, the real concern is protecting law-abiding citizens—not providing sanctuary to those who break U.S. immigration laws.
📌 Key Highlights from House Bill 511 and Senate Bill 62
- HB 511: Requires local jails to comply with federal immigration holds. Prohibits city officials from enacting “sanctuary” policies. Contains exceptions for crime victims and witnesses.
- SB 62: Allows jails to hold individuals for up to 48 hours post-release to transfer to ICE. Authorizes legal action against non-compliant jurisdictions. Encourages partnerships under Section 287(g) for immigration enforcement.
These measures ensure that New Hampshire stands with the Constitution, not political correctness.
🛑 “Welcoming” Cities Like Nashua and Lebanon Now on Notice
Although no official sanctuary cities existed in New Hampshire, some towns had adopted “welcoming” policies. Under the new laws, those policies must be revised or risk state-level consequences.
“If you’re in this country illegally, New Hampshire is not your safe haven,” said Rep. Joe Sweeney, the bill’s sponsor.
📣 Governor Ayotte: “We’re Just Getting Started”
Governor Ayotte’s firm stance echoes President Donald Trump’s America First approach. Her administration is focused on keeping New Hampshire one of the safest states in the nation.
“We will never be a sanctuary for criminals. We’re delivering on our promise,” Ayotte said in a press release.
Rep. Sweeney added in a social media post:
“We are doing everything we can to keep New Hampshire safe.”
🔒 Final Thoughts
For millions of Americans, especially older voters who remember a time when laws meant something, this is a refreshing return to common sense. Sanctuary cities have long been a magnet for crime, drugs, and gang violence.
Now, New Hampshire is sending a message loud and clear: Illegal immigration stops at our border.
These laws take effect in early 2026, and they represent a major conservative policy victory at a time when many states are going in the opposite direction.
