By Abigail Philip David
The Trump administration has granted U.S. immigration authorities the power to arrest individuals in schools, churches, and hospitals, reversing a longstanding policy that designated these locations as off-limits for enforcement actions.
This change marks the end of over a decade of protections for these “sensitive areas,” a move the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) says is aimed at preventing individuals from using such spaces to avoid arrest.
“The Trump Administration will not tie the hands of our brave law enforcement, and instead trusts them to use common sense,” DHS stated, as reported by The Guardian on Tuesday.
The directive, issued by Acting DHS Secretary Benjamin Huffman, also reinstates nationwide expedited removal, allowing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to quickly deport undocumented individuals who cannot prove continuous residence in the U.S. for more than two years.
These measures are part of the Trump administration’s broader immigration crackdown. This week, the president signed multiple executive orders, including a suspension of the refugee program, restrictions on an app that facilitates U.S. entry, and enhanced cooperation between ICE and local governments.
As part of this initiative, ICE agents are set to carry out nationwide operations targeting undocumented individuals for arrest and deportation. Trump’s border czar, Tom Homan, confirmed that enforcement efforts would begin immediately.
Immigrant advocacy groups have strongly opposed the new policy. The Center for Law and Social Policy warned that it could discourage families from seeking medical care, disaster relief, and education, while increasing the likelihood of children witnessing traumatic encounters with immigration officers.
Religious leaders have also voiced concern. During a sermon at an inaugural prayer service, the Episcopal bishop of Washington called on the administration to show compassion for immigrants and vulnerable communities.
