LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY — Kentucky lawmakers are reviewing a controversial proposal that would require every police department in the state — including the Kentucky State Police — to partner with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement under the 287(g) task force model, giving officers limited federal immigration enforcement powers.
Bill Seeks Mandatory ICE Partnerships for All Agencies
Rep. TJ Roberts, a Republican from Burlington, submitted a bill request ahead of the 2026 General Assembly, which convenes in January. His proposal would force all local and state law enforcement agencies to adopt ICE’s 287(g) task force model, which allows trained officers to process immigration violations during routine policing.
Roberts argued that the measure would help target areas with higher activity related to human trafficking, drug smuggling, and interstate travel corridors.
He told lawmakers the bill is not intended to authorize local officers to seek out undocumented immigrants on their own, but to allow immigration checks during traffic stops or criminal investigations when reasonable suspicion exists.
Controversy Surrounding the Program’s History
ICE’s 287(g) task force model has a troubled past…