The United States Department of Homeland Security has lifted long-standing restrictions preventing immigration authorities from making arrests at schools, churches, and hospitals. This policy reversal under President Donald Trump’s administration marks the end of more than a decade of protections for these “sensitive areas.”
The department announced the change in a statement, citing the need to eliminate safe havens for individuals evading arrest.
“Criminals will no longer be able to hide in America’s schools and churches to avoid arrest,” the statement read. “The Trump Administration will not tie the hands of our brave law enforcement and instead trusts them to use common sense.”
The directive, issued by Acting DHS Secretary Benjamine Huffman, also reinstates the use of expedited removal nationwide, enabling Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to swiftly deport undocumented individuals who cannot prove they have resided in the United States for over two years.
The policy shift aligns with a broader crackdown on immigration under the Trump administration. This week, the president signed multiple executive actions aimed at tightening border security and expediting deportations.
Among the measures are the suspension of the refugee system, restrictions on a digital app used to facilitate entry into the U.S., and expanded cooperation between ICE and local governments.
Tom Homan, Trump’s border czar, confirmed that ICE operations to arrest and deport undocumented individuals would begin immediately. “ICE officers across the country are actively enforcing immigration laws,” Homan stated.
The policy change has drawn sharp criticism from advocacy groups and religious leaders.
The Center for Law and Social Policy expressed concern over the potential impact on immigrant families, especially those with U.S.-citizen children.
“These changes will deter families from seeking medical care, disaster relief, and education, putting children at risk of witnessing traumatic encounters with immigration officials,” the organisation warned.
Religious leaders also voiced opposition. During a sermon at an inaugural prayer service, the Episcopal bishop of Washington called on the administration to show compassion toward immigrants and vulnerable populations.
“Let us remember that compassion and humanity must guide our policies,” the bishop said, urging a reconsideration of the approach.
The removal of protections for schools, churches, and hospitals is expected to have far-reaching consequences for immigrant communities. Critics argue the new policies may discourage individuals from accessing essential services, while proponents claim the changes are necessary to ensure the rule of law.
As the administration presses forward with its agenda, the debate over balancing national security and humanitarian considerations continues to intensify.
