Trust Act: In light of the current national landscape and the increase in deportations and ICE activity, GHIAA came alongside a coalition supporting HB 7212, which would have accomplished several important policy changes to protect immigrants in Connecticut: 

• Prohibiting public agencies and officials from sharing people’s private information with ICE in the absence of a judicial warrant or other exceptional circumstance;
• Protecting access to the justice system for all CT residents by prohibiting ICE enforcement action in state courthouses or while people are on their way to or from legal proceedings;
• Requiring those entering into contracts with the state to commit not to cooperate with ICE in the absence of a judicial warrant/etc;
• Making the existing Trust Act enforceable by establishing the right to sue for people whose rights have been violated under this statue.

The bill had a successful public hearing in the Judiciary Committee and strong legislative support. However, Governor Lamont signaled late in the session that he was opposed to the changes. While there were enough votes to pass the original bill, there were not enough votes to override the promised veto.

Instead, the enforceability provision was added to another piece of legislation, which was passed and signed into law. 

All other provisions were not enacted.

GHIAA’s Impact: We generated more than 70 testimonies and won support through more than a dozen constituent meetings. We crafted and co-led an impactful interfaith press conference and advocacy day. We added the moral authority of our faith traditions and the people power of our voices. What we did not find a way to do was influence the governor. 

ICE Preparedness: We held a Know Your Rights training with Ben Haldeman of New Haven Legal Assistance Association, with over 100 people registered. Several GHIAA congregations have developed and approved policies for ICE preparedness, so that they have plans in place to keep people safer if immigration officials should show up in their space. GHIAA organizers have pulled together resources for institutional as well as individual preparedness for those looking for more information.