State Leaders Demand Clarity From ICE on Immigration Enforcement

Top leaders of the California Legislature are frustrated by how hard it is to get information from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

So they’re turning to more official channels.

Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon (D-Paramount) and Senate President Pro Tem Kevin de León (D-Los Angeles) have filed requests with the federal government through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).

They want to know more about ICE policies on actions at churches, schools and other public places. They especially want information on how ICE is treating so-called Dreamers, people brought here illegally as children by their parents.

De León says the FOIA request can bring clarity to the situation.

"We’re getting reports from the community that Dreamers are being stopped. We’re getting reports that mothers are being taken from hospitals who have no criminal records," he said. "So we need to have sunshine in order for public officials in California to move policies that will protect the values and people of California."

Lawmakers also want to know how ICE is responding to a recent executive order expanding immigration actions.

De León said it appears all undocumented Californians are being targeted, not just those with criminal records.

Rendon says the end goal is better cooperation between ICE and the state.

"What we want is to make sure that we have an open flow of communication and that when we give our constituents information, that it's good information," he said.

Despite rising tensions between California and the federal government, Rendon said state leaders will continue to act in the best interests of residents.