DOJ Warns Virginia Could Become “Second California” Over Immigration Lawsuit

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has raised concerns that Virginia might follow in California’s footsteps regarding immigration laws, particularly in light of a recent lawsuit. This lawsuit aims to challenge Virginia’s regulations that the DOJ believes impede federal immigration enforcement.

“We’re filing suit against Virginia to stop it from becoming another sanctuary jurisdiction like California,” Assistant Attorney General Brett Shumate shared during a recent interview with Fox News Digital.

The legal action, initially reported in early June, claims Virginia is violating constitutional principles by attempting to interfere with federal law enforcement methods. Specific allegations include measures on masks for law enforcement personnel, ID requirements, and stipulations for local cooperation with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

“Our Constitution makes it clear that states can’t dictate how the federal government executes its duties, especially regarding law enforcement,” Shumate noted. He further explained that the state recently passed two bills—one prohibits law enforcement from wearing face coverings and another mandates that federal officers display identification badges.

Additionally, the lawsuit names Virginia Attorney General Jay Jones and Fairfax County Commonwealth’s Attorney Steve Descano, who has ties to a group linked with George Soros.

While the DOJ has yet to receive a formal response from state officials, Shumate indicated they feel positive about their position due to past legal victories.

“Earlier this year, we filed a nearly identical lawsuit in California and we won,” he stated. This followed a federal appeals court ruling that blocked California’s requirement for federal immigration agents to identify themselves while on duty.

Virginia’s laws are expected to go into effect on July 1, and the DOJ plans to act quickly by requesting a district court injunction to halt their implementation. Shumate emphasized that the laws could expose federal employees to criminal prosecution and compromise their safety.

Interestingly, Virginia, once a staunchly Republican state, has shifted towards more progressive policies in recent years. As such, Shumate underscored the DOJ’s commitment to ensuring that states considering similar regulations understand the potential legal ramifications. “States that are contemplating these kinds of laws should be aware that we will pursue litigation to stop them,” he added.