WORCESTER, Mass. — Worcester City Manager Eric D. Batista has issued an executive order establishing new guidelines that restrict municipal employee involvement in federal immigration enforcement, according to a directive released this week.
The order outlines that no city employee, including Worcester Police Department (WPD) officers, may inquire about or act based on an individual’s immigration status. The document emphasizes that enforcement of immigration law is the responsibility of the federal government, not local authorities.
“The City of Worcester…is a welcoming city that provides services to all and is committed to creating a safe and inclusive community,” the order states. “Municipal resources shall not be expended toward that end.”
Under the policy, local law enforcement is prohibited from initiating investigations or detentions solely on the basis of immigration status. It also prohibits extending detention times based on federal civil immigration detainers or transferring individuals to federal custody without a court order.
The executive order aligns with Massachusetts state law, which already restricts local police from holding individuals on civil immigration detainers without judicial authorization.
Immigration status restrictions for local officials
The order further prohibits city employees from using immigration status as a factor in how they treat any member of the public, including residents, suspects, victims, arrestees, or emergency callers.
“No person will be arrested or held by the WPD solely on the basis of a federal civil immigration detainer,” the order reads. This applies even if the individual is in local custody, being transferred to court, or has posted bail.
This policy was issued in accordance with the City’s mission and values, focusing on public safety, equity, and inclusion. Both the City of Worcester and the WPD have committed to maintaining services and protections regardless of a person’s immigration status.
City officials reiterated that the directive aims to ensure consistent treatment for all community members and limit the use of local resources for federal immigration enforcement.
Worcester’s order follows similar actions in other Massachusetts municipalities.
