East Chicago Repeals Sanctuary City Ordinance

The city of East Chicago has repealed its 'Welcoming City Ordinance' in response to a lawsuit filed by Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita, who argued that the ordinance violated state law banning sanctuary cities. Following the repeal, Rokita voluntarily dismissed the lawsuit, expressing satisfaction that East Chicago will comply with state immigration policies. The ordinance, enacted in 2017, had prohibited city officials from sharing immigration status information with federal authorities, which Rokita claimed provided safe harbor for undocumented immigrants. The repeal was approved by the East Chicago Common Council and Mayor Anthony Copeland, who stated that the ordinance was unnecessary for protecting residents' rights. Rokita's office continues to pursue a lawsuit against Monroe County for similar sanctuary policy violations. This action marks a significant move in Indiana's ongoing efforts to enforce its ban on sanctuary cities.