Rep. Nancy Mace Introduces Bill To Prioritize Funding For Communities Cooperating With Federal Immigration Enforcement

WASHINGTON, D.C. (Mar. 20, 2026) - Congresswoman Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) introduced the Incentivizing Cooperation in Immigration Enforcement Act, legislation to reward states and localities partnering with federal immigration authorities and put them first in line for federal public safety funding.

The bill amends the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act, adding priority grant consideration of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) grant applications for jurisdictions operating under 287(g) agreements with the Department of Homeland Security.

"Communities deserve to be safe, and it starts with strong coordination at every level of law enforcement," said Congresswoman Mace."If you work with federal immigration officials and uphold the law, you should be prioritized. This is how we protect our communities. Plain and simple. Our bill makes it happen."

287(g) agreements give state and local law enforcement the ability to work with the Department of Homeland Security to carry out certain immigration enforcement functions and identify criminals in the country illegally, ensuring they are removed from the community.

The Incentivizing Cooperation in Immigration Enforcement Act puts jurisdictions opting into these partnerships first in line for federal funding.

"Local leaders who step up deserve support, not the same treatment as jurisdictions obstructing federal law enforcement," Mace added. "This legislation backs those who cooperate with federal authorities and makes sure they get the public safety resources they deserve."

SEE BILL TEXT BELOW:

###