DOJ Sanctuary List Targets CT, RI, VT And Boston; Threatens Lawsuits, Funding Cuts, ICE Surge

DOJ published a national list on Aug. 5 naming 20+ states, cities and counties as “sanctuary” jurisdictions, including CT, RI, VT and Boston, warning of lawsuits and potential federal funding cuts for noncooperation with ICE. Officials like AG Pam Bondi and border czar Tom Homan frame the move as public-safety focused, while local leaders cite chilling effects on crime reporting and courts have blocked similar actions before. Several lawsuits are pending and earlier list versions drew accuracy complaints. The New England clustering underscores targeted political signaling within a broader federal enforcement campaign.