New ICE policy allows arrests at health facilities

Federal immigration officials can now make arrests at or near sensitive locations, like health care facilities, due to a policy change made during the Trump administration. This has raised concerns among health providers about the safety and privacy of their patients. In response, some healthcare providers are quickly training their staff on legal rights and procedures. Maryland Attorney General Anthony Brown has sent guidance to these providers. He advised them that they do not need to ask patients about their immigration status, unless it affects insurance coverage. Brown also suggested that health workers should ask for proper identification when someone claims to be from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Additionally, he emphasized that healthcare providers should not interfere with any immigration investigations that may occur. The changes have sparked discussions among health professionals and advocates. Nicole Lamoureux, president of the National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics, and Matt Lopas, from the National Immigration Law Center, shared their insights on a recent radio segment. These conversations highlight the growing concerns among health providers about balancing patient care with legal compliance.