Montana State Investigates Helena for Noncooperation with Federal Immigration Authorities

Wed Mar 25 2026 23:57:28 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

The Montana Department of Justice threatens legal action against the capital city of Helena for its resolution against assisting federal immigration enforcement, raising questions about local governance and state law.

Montana's Attorney General has initiated an investigation into the city of Helena, accusing it of violating state law by refusing to cooperate with federal immigration authorities. The dispute has prompted a public outcry, with local officials and residents advocating for immigrant rights and local governance. City leaders are under pressure as they consider changes to a resolution that protects undocumented immigrants. This situation highlights tensions between state and local authorities and reflects the broader national debate over immigration policy.

The state of Montana is investigating its capital city. Over the past three weeks, the state Department of Justice has threatened to sue the city of Helena. On February 11, Attorney General Austin Knudsen accused Helena of violating a state law that prohibits cities from offering sanctuary to undocumented immigrants during a press conference alongside the governor.

“The city of Helena does not make state law,” Knudsen remarked, referring to a resolution passed by Helena's city commissioners in January which stated that the city would not aid federal immigration agents. He urged the city to pursue legal avenues if they disagreed with the state law.

With the investigation leading to increased public pressure, a special meeting is scheduled for March 26 to discuss the city's response to the state action. Helena Mayor Emily Dean has invited the Attorney General to discuss the matter. Some have expressed discontent with city officials, particularly after City Attorney Rebecca Dockter suggested the possibility of rescinding the resolution.

Helena, home to a relatively small immigrant population, has seen this conflict spark debates about local governance versus state law amidst a nationwide discussion on immigration. Activists and city leaders insist the issue impacts the principle of local self-governance and alignment with resident values.

The attorney general's investigation coincides with national trends of increased scrutiny on local policies regarding immigrant populations, suggesting a heightened political climate surrounding immigration enforcement in Montana.