Key Takeaways
• On May 23, 2025, federal agents tracked unaccompanied immigrant minors in Colorado’s foster care system.
• Colorado’s Senate Bill 276 limits federal access to public buildings and imposes $50,000 civil penalties for violations.
• The DOJ filed a lawsuit on May 2, 2025, challenging Colorado’s sanctuary laws and enforcement limits.
Federal Agents Intensify Immigration Enforcement in Colorado as State Expands Protections
Federal agents have stepped up immigration enforcement efforts across Colorado, even as the state legislature moves to strengthen protections for immigrants. On May 23, 2025, federal law enforcement officers were confirmed to be tracking unaccompanied immigrant minors in Colorado’s foster care system. This operation, which included officers spending several days at Lutheran Family Services offices in Colorado Springs and Denver, is the latest flashpoint in a growing conflict between state and federal authorities over immigration enforcement.
The recent actions by federal agents come just weeks after Colorado lawmakers passed new legislation designed to limit cooperation between local agencies and federal immigration enforcement. At the same time, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has filed a lawsuit against Colorado, arguing that the state’s so-called “sanctuary laws” make it harder for federal agents to detain and remove individuals who are in the country without legal status.
This ongoing struggle has left many Colorado communities, especially those with large immigrant populations, uncertain about what to expect. The situation is changing quickly, with new policies and enforcement actions affecting schools, local governments, and families across the state.
Colorado’s New Immigration Enforcement Laws
In early May 2025, Colorado lawmakers passed Senate Bill 276, a sweeping measure that expands protections for immigrants and sets new limits on how state and local agencies can work with federal immigration enforcement. The law covers a range of areas, including schools, colleges, and child care centers.
Key provisions of Senate Bill 276 include:
- Limiting federal agents’ access to public buildings: Public schools and colleges must have rules that restrict federal immigration enforcement officials from entering their buildings unless they present a court-issued order, subpoena, or warrant.
- Extending restrictions to more agencies: The law expands existing limits on cooperation with federal immigration enforcement to include cities, counties, and schools.
- Tracking information requests: State and local agencies must keep records of any third parties, including federal agents, who request personal information about individuals.
- Civil penalties for violations: Employees who break these rules could face civil penalties of up to $50,000.
- Easier access to state benefits: The law removes the requirement for undocumented residents to submit affidavits stating they will apply for legal status when seeking in-state tuition or identification documents.
These changes build on several other laws passed in recent years that have shaped Colorado’s approach to immigration enforcement:
- HB19-1124: Prevents law enforcement from arresting or detaining people based solely on their immigration status or holding them past their release time for federal agents.
- SB21-131: Stops state employees from investigating someone’s immigration status or sharing personal information with federal immigration enforcement.
- SB20-083: Prohibits arrests for civil infractions at courthouses or when people are traveling to or from court, limiting federal agents’ ability to detain individuals at these locations.
- Legal aid funding: In 2021, Colorado allocated about $100,000 to help organizations provide legal representation for immigrants in court.
Federal Pushback and Enforcement Actions
Despite Colorado’s efforts to shield immigrants from federal enforcement, the Trump administration has taken a much tougher stance. On January 21, 2025, the federal government ended the “sensitive locations” policy, which had previously limited immigration enforcement at schools and certain other places. This change means that federal agents can now conduct operations at schools, raising concerns among educators and immigrant families.
The DOJ lawsuit filed on May 2, 2025, targets Colorado, Denver, Governor Jared Polis, Attorney General Phil Weiser, the state legislature, and Denver Sheriff Elias Diggins. The federal government argues that Colorado’s laws force them to release individuals into the public because they cannot afford to transport all detainees to a federal facility in Aurora. According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, this lawsuit could have major implications for how states across the country interact with federal immigration enforcement.
Federal agents have also been conducting welfare checks on unaccompanied minors in Colorado’s foster care system. Immigration advocates say these visits are intimidating for children and caregivers, and they worry that such actions could lead to faster deportations.
Competing Bills and Political Debate
While Democrats in Colorado have pushed for stronger protections for immigrants, some Republican lawmakers have introduced bills that would reverse these measures. For example:
- Senate Bill 25-047: Seeks to undo recent laws that limit enforcement of federal immigration law in Colorado.
- House Bill 1107: Directs state and local officials to fully comply with and assist in federal immigration enforcement.
These competing bills reflect a deep divide in Colorado politics over how to handle immigration enforcement.
Stakeholder Perspectives
State Leaders
Governor Jared Polis has repeatedly said that “Colorado is not a sanctuary state.” He emphasizes that the state works with local, state, and federal law enforcement, and that there is zero tolerance for anyone who commits violent crimes, regardless of citizenship. However, he has also criticized some of President Trump’s strictest immigration proposals.
State Senator Julie Gonzales, a Denver Democrat and sponsor of the new legislation, says the laws are meant to “protect immigrant rights and ensure students and families feel secure going to school.”
School Officials
School leaders have voiced strong support for the new protections. Summit School District Superintendent Tony Byrd said, “This bill will foster trust in our community. When families feel safe, they’re more likely to engage with our schools.”
Republican Opposition
House Minority Leader Rose Pugliese has criticized the new laws, arguing that they do not do enough to remove violent criminals. However, she has also said she supports creating a legal path to citizenship for undocumented immigrants.
Practical Implications for Colorado Communities
The changing landscape of immigration enforcement in Colorado has real effects on people’s daily lives. Here are some of the most important ways these changes are being felt:
1. School Safety and Trust
With the end of the “sensitive locations” policy, schools are now more likely to see immigration enforcement operations. This has made many families nervous about sending their children to school. Educators worry that fear of federal agents could keep students from attending classes or participating in school activities.
Despite these concerns, the constitutional right of all children to attend public school remains protected. Schools are still required by law to serve all students, regardless of immigration status. For more information on the rights of immigrant students, visit the U.S. Department of Education’s resource page.
2. Urban vs. Rural Enforcement
While state laws set broad rules, local enforcement can vary. Some rural counties on Colorado’s Western Slope, such as Garfield, Moffat, and Mesa, have passed resolutions rejecting “sanctuary” policies and signaled they may work more closely with federal immigration enforcement. This means that immigrants in these areas may face different risks than those in urban centers like Denver.
Rural resort areas, which have some of the state’s largest immigrant populations, are especially affected. In these communities, school districts often have a high percentage of Latino students, and local policies can have a big impact on families’ sense of safety.
3. Impact on Immigrant Communities
For many immigrant families, the uncertainty around immigration enforcement creates stress and confusion. Some worry about being separated from loved ones or losing access to important services. Others fear that sharing information with schools or local agencies could put them at risk.
Advocacy groups and legal service providers are working to help families understand their rights and access support. The Colorado Office of New Americans (ONA) plays a key role in connecting immigrants with resources and helping them integrate into Colorado communities.
4. Legal Rights and Protections
Even as federal agents increase enforcement, certain legal protections remain in place. For example, schools cannot deny enrollment to students based on immigration status, and state laws limit how much information local agencies can share with federal immigration enforcement.
If you are an immigrant in Colorado and have questions about your rights, you can contact the Colorado Office of New Americans or visit their official website.
The Role of the Colorado Office of New Americans
The Colorado Office of New Americans (ONA) serves as a central point of contact for state agencies, private organizations, and the public. Its mission is to help immigrants and refugees become part of Colorado’s civic, economic, and social life. As of October 1, 2024, ONA also manages the Colorado Refugee Services Program, which coordinates refugee resettlement across the state.
ONA’s vision is that “all New Americans have equitable access to opportunity and well-being.” The office provides information about legal rights, helps connect people with services, and works to make Colorado a welcoming place for immigrants.
Federal Agents and the Foster Care System
The recent tracking of unaccompanied immigrant minors by federal agents has drawn criticism from advocates and state officials. Officers spent several days at Lutheran Family Services offices in Colorado Springs and Denver, trying to locate eight minors in El Paso County’s foster care system. Supporters of immigrant rights argue that these actions are intimidating and could discourage families from seeking help or participating in foster care programs.
Federal officials say these checks are necessary to ensure the safety of minors and enforce immigration laws. However, the tension between state protections and federal enforcement continues to create uncertainty for children and caregivers.
What’s Next for Colorado’s Immigration Enforcement?
The future of immigration enforcement in Colorado will depend on several key factors:
- Pending Lawsuit: The outcome of the DOJ’s lawsuit against Colorado could determine whether the state can keep its current protections in place.
- Implementation of New Laws: The legislative session ended on May 7, 2025, but the real test will come as agencies put the new rules into practice.
- Federal Policy Changes: The Trump administration’s approach to immigration enforcement will continue to shape what happens on the ground in Colorado.
- Community Response: Advocacy groups, legal service providers, and local leaders will keep working to support immigrant communities and respond to new challenges.
What Immigrants, Families, and Employers Should Know
If you are an immigrant, a family member, or an employer in Colorado, here are some important points to remember:
- Know your rights: Schools and most public agencies cannot ask about your immigration status or share your personal information with federal immigration enforcement without a court order.
- Stay informed: Laws and policies are changing quickly. Check official sources like the Colorado Office of New Americans for updates.
- Seek help if needed: If you are facing legal challenges or have questions about your status, reach out to trusted legal service providers or advocacy organizations.
- Employers: Be aware of your responsibilities under state and federal law. If you receive a request from federal agents, make sure it is accompanied by the proper legal documents.
Conclusion and Next Steps
Colorado’s approach to immigration enforcement is at a crossroads. As the state expands protections for immigrants, federal agents are increasing their efforts to enforce immigration laws. This has created a complex and sometimes confusing environment for families, schools, and communities.
The best way to stay safe and informed is to know your rights, keep up with the latest news, and seek help from trusted organizations. As reported by VisaVerge.com, the outcome of the DOJ lawsuit and the implementation of new state laws will be critical in shaping the future of immigration enforcement in Colorado.
For more information about your rights and available resources, visit the Colorado Office of New Americans or the U.S. Department of Education’s resource page.
By staying informed and connected, Colorado residents can better navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead as the state’s immigration enforcement landscape continues to change.
Learn Today
Senate Bill 276 → Colorado law expanding immigrant protections and limiting cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.
Sanctuary laws → State or local policies restricting cooperation with federal immigration authorities to protect immigrants.
Unaccompanied immigrant minors → Children who entered the U.S. without guardians and are under foster care protection.
Sensitive locations policy → Federal rule limiting immigration enforcement at schools or other protected sites, ended in 2025.
Department of Justice lawsuit → Federal legal action challenging Colorado’s immigration laws for hindering enforcement procedures.
This Article in a Nutshell
Colorado expands immigrant protections with Senate Bill 276, restricting federal agents’ access to public sites. Meanwhile, federal enforcement intensifies, including legal challenges and tracking of unaccompanied minors, highlighting the clash between state policies and federal immigration authorities.
— By VisaVerge.com
