New Immigration Law in Maine Set to Take Effect
A law in Maine aimed at limiting cooperation between state law enforcement and federal immigration authorities is scheduled to come into effect on Tuesday. This follows Democratic Governor Janet Mills’ decision not to veto or delay the legislation, amid ongoing protests against ICE across the country. These developments have heightened scrutiny of Mills’ progressive stance as she campaigns for the Senate.
The law, which was approved by Maine’s Democratic-led Legislature late last year, prevents state and local law enforcement from assisting U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in various immigration matters.
Though the law hasn’t officially taken effect because it’s been neither signed nor vetoed, Mills has instructed the Maine State Police to start enforcing its provisions, according to reports. Interestingly, the bill passed through the Maine House by a single vote last year.
ICE Operations in Maine Amid Increased Scrutiny
Mills, who is running in the Democratic primary to challenge moderate Republican Senator Susan Collins, has previously labeled ICE a “secret police force” and criticized their actions as reckless.
As ICE escalates its activities in Maine—recently resulting in 50 arrests—the state’s Republican Party has pushed back against Mills’ criticisms. An aide to the House Republican leader emphasized that ICE agents are federal law enforcement officers who operate under federal authority and deserve respect.
In a statement following a significant incident where federal agents shot and killed an armed man in Minneapolis, Mills called for a meeting with President Trump to discuss removing ICE from Maine.
This immigration measure is the latest in a range of decisions that critics argue illustrate Mills’ liberal record, particularly as the State of the Union address approaches later this month.
Since taking office, Mills has broadened eligibility for MaineCare, the state’s Medicaid program, to include noncitizens, regardless of immigration status. This policy enables taxpayer-funded healthcare for noncitizen children and pregnant individuals, a decision Republicans argue increases costs for working Mainers. State records indicate that Maine has incurred significant medical costs for individual undocumented immigrants in recent years.
Other Controversial Policies and Pushback
The National Republican Senatorial Committee has pointed out a recent advertisement on a Maine city bus promoting MaineCare access for “pregnant people and children under 21, with or without proof of citizenship,” which attracted criticism towards Mills.
Mills has also had public disagreements with Trump, particularly over transgender issues. Last year, she challenged the President regarding federal funding threats associated with transgender athletes competing in women’s sports.
Moreover, Mills has supported various laws expanding access to gender-affirming treatments and protections for minors, despite parental objections. Her administration has promoted laws that broaden abortion provider access, remove criminal penalties related to reproductive healthcare, and strengthen protections for patients traveling to Maine for such services.
The NRSC expressed that Mills appears more focused on advancing a progressive agenda rather than delivering practical outcomes for Maine. According to their regional press secretary, Maine deserves a senator prioritizing real results rather than pushing progressive policies.
Fox News Digital has contacted Mills’ campaign for a response.
