DOJ Files Lawsuits Against Four States Over Undercover License Plates for ICE

<p>The Department of Justice (DOJ) announced on May 29, 2026, that it has filed lawsuits against four states—Maine, Massachusetts, Oregon, and Washington—over their refusal to issue undercover license plates to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. The DOJ claims that the states' actions unlawfully discriminate against federal law enforcement and violate the Constitution's Supremacy Clause.</p><p>Assistant Attorney General Brett Shumate previously set a deadline of May 22 for the states to comply with the request for undercover plates. The lawsuits represent an escalation in a standoff regarding immigration enforcement between the DOJ and the states, which argue they are not obligated to assist with civil immigration enforcement.</p><p>Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche stated, "This Department of Justice will exercise any and all lawful authorities to support the brave men and women of law enforcement." He criticized the states for denying undercover plates to ICE while providing them to state agencies.</p><p>A representative from the Massachusetts governor’s office indicated that the state issues undercover plates to federal agents only for criminal investigations, not for civil matters, which typically include immigration cases. Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey expressed support for law enforcement in legitimate criminal investigations but criticized ICE's tactics.</p><p>Oregon has implemented a moratorium on issuing undercover plates to federal agents, while Maine and Washington have similar policies regarding civil investigations. Washington Governor Bob Ferguson stated that the state collaborates with federal partners for criminal investigations but opposes ICE's civil enforcement methods.</p><p>The lawsuits cite the Supremacy Clause, asserting that federal law is supreme over conflicting state laws and that the states must issue the requested plates. Legal experts have noted that the DOJ may face challenges in compelling states to comply with its request.</p><p>The DOJ did not respond to requests for comment regarding the lawsuits.</p>