CLEAR Act of 2025
CLEAR Act of 2025
Plain Language Summary
# CLEAR Act of 2025 - Summary **What the Bill Would Do:** The CLEAR Act would require the federal government to work more closely with state and local police departments on immigration enforcement. Specifically, it would allow—and in some cases require—local law enforcement to help apprehend people who are in the country illegally. When local authorities request it, the Department of Homeland Security would have 48 hours to take custody of these individuals. The bill also includes financial penalties: states and cities that have "sanctuary" policies prohibiting cooperation with federal immigration enforcement would lose certain federal funding.
Local governments would be reimbursed for costs related to detaining immigrants pending federal pickup. **Who It Affects:** This bill primarily affects undocumented immigrants facing removal, state and local law enforcement agencies, and local governments—particularly those with sanctuary policies that limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities. It could also impact taxpayers in states and municipalities that choose to cooperate, as reimbursement would come from federal funds. **Current Status:** The bill (S. 114) was introduced in the 119th Congress by Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been voted on by the full Senate.
CRS Official Summary
Clear Law Enforcement for Criminal Alien Removal Act of 2025 or the CLEAR Act of 2025This bill establishes requirements and programs related to the detention of individuals unlawfully present in the United States and facing removal, including the role of state and local governments in this process.The bill provides that state and local governments have the authority to assist in the enforcement of federal immigration laws, including by apprehending individuals and transferring them to federal custody. Jurisdictions that prohibit such cooperation are barred from receiving certain federal funding.The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) must within 48 hours of a request by a state or local authority take custody of an individual unlawfully present in the United States. The bill also establishes requirements for state or local detention and provides for reimbursement for reasonable expenses. The Government Accountability Office must also audit such reimbursements.DHS must also construct 20 additional detention facilities in the United States for individuals facing removal.The bill also (1) extends certain federal immunity from liability to state and local law enforcement officers, (2) provides immunity to state or local law enforcement agencies from certain money damages, and (3) requires states to participate in programs to expedite the removal of individuals subject to removal who are serving criminal sentences.The bill also establishes a grant program, provides for the development of state and local law enforcement training materials, and requires state and local governments to provide information about certain detained individuals.
Latest Action
Read twice and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.