New Orleans Mayor Helena Moreno signed an executive order on Thursday prohibiting any city official from entering into agreements with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) that would deputize local law enforcement to conduct immigration enforcement operations, commonly known as “287(g) agreements.”
The order, announced by the Mayor’s office, explicitly forbids any public official from signing applications, letters of intent, certifications, or other documents related to establishing or participating in such agreements. Mayor Moreno stated that immigration enforcement is not the responsibility of the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD). “NOPD will never inquire for anyone’s immigration status and will not be deputized under ICE,” she said. “NOPD’s priority is public safety — responding to violent crime, protecting residents, and building trust in our communities. We will always comply with state law while simultaneously protecting New Orleanians.”
Deputy Mayor of Public Safety Michael Harrison echoed this sentiment, stating, “It’s not local law enforcement’s job to handle federal issues and this Executive Order reinforces this principle.”
The Moreno Administration emphasized that the policy reflects a strategic allocation of the NOPD’s limited resources, particularly as the department continues to address violent crime despite ongoing staffing shortages and budgetary constraints. The administration believes federal resources are more appropriately utilized for federal immigration matters.
According to the city, similar prohibitions against 287(g) agreements are in effect in at least eight states nationwide. The City of New Orleans affirmed its commitment to complying with all applicable state and federal laws.
