Ordinance To Restrict Immigration Enforcement In SMC Approved By Supervisors

SAN MATEO COUNTY, CA — Faced with rising federal immigration enforcement concerns, the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors introduced an ordinance Tuesday to strengthen and clarify County officials' interaction rules with federal immigration authorities.

The measure aims to strengthen existing County protections, increase enforcement transparency, and reinforce public safety and trust within immigrant communities. Supervisors unanimously approved the ordinance on a first vote; it requires a second, final reading at an upcoming meeting to take effect.

“This ordinance is a powerful step forward in protecting every person in our county and setting a new standard for transparency and trust,” said Supervisor Noelia Corzo, who introduced the proposal with Supervisor Ray Mueller. “By passing this ordinance today, we are sending a clear and unwavering message that San Mateo County stands strongly with our immigrant community, and that we are ready to protect and support every member of our community.”

The measure would limit federal immigration agents’ access to County buildings, mandate quarterly reporting by the Sheriff’s Office and Probation Department, and strengthen prohibitions on using local resources to aid Immigration and Customs Enforcement, unless legally required. The measure also addresses growing immigrant community concerns about law-enforcement identification, especially face coverings.

“By establishing clear reporting requirements and protecting the public from confusion caused by unidentified law enforcement personnel, we are enhancing safety and community trust,” Mueller said.

The ordinance bans County employees from wearing face coverings that hide their identity while on duty, in response to unidentified individuals, potentially federal agents, appearing at local facilities. It also mandates the Sheriff’s Office and Chief Probation Officer to track and publicly report all federal immigration assistance requests, including the legal authority cited and action taken, to increase public oversight and trust.

The County updated its policies limiting cooperation with immigration enforcement, which were originally adopted years ago. This update was prompted by recent federal actions, community reports of encounters with unidentified officers, and ongoing fear among mixed-status families.

Additionally, the County prohibits federal immigration agents from entering nonpublic County areas, such as jails and probation offices, without a judicial warrant.