The U.S. Department of Justice has initiated a lawsuit against Massachusetts for its refusal to issue confidential license plates and registrations to federal immigration agents, specifically those from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). These plates are typically reserved for law enforcement personnel engaged in undercover operations.
The Healey administration maintains that these plates are designated solely for criminal law enforcement purposes, irrespective of the agency involved, and argues that ICE's civil law enforcement activities do not qualify. Governor Maura Healey emphasized that Massachusetts is not a 'sanctuary state' and supports legitimate federal law enforcement efforts, but opposes actions by ICE that she claims operate without just cause.
The lawsuit states that Massachusetts ceased issuing these confidential plates to ICE this year, despite having allowed such plates for federal agencies in the past. The DOJ contends that these plates are essential for the safety and effectiveness of law enforcement operations, claiming that the state's refusal discriminates against federal agencies and violates the Constitution's Supremacy Clause. Acting U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche criticized the state's policy as discriminatory and obstructive.
In response, Healey described the lawsuit as part of a series of unfounded complaints against states like Massachusetts. The state is one of four, including Maine, Washington, and Oregon, facing similar lawsuits from the federal government regarding license plate policies. Earlier this month, the DOJ had warned Massachusetts of a potential lawsuit if it did not resume issuing special plates by May 22, to which the state's legal advisor responded that Massachusetts would maintain its current policy.
The dispute over license plates comes amid heightened federal scrutiny of Massachusetts' policies that limit local cooperation with immigration enforcement. A congressional committee has requested documents from local law enforcement agencies, while Boston awaits a ruling related to the city's Trust Act.
