It may come as no surprise that President Donald Trump has made recent comments about immigration that are making Californians uneasy. Trump has said he is considering removing Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers from California. This threat is in response to the Golden State declaring itself a sanctuary state.

But will he actually follow through? What are the details of the threat? And what exactly does it mean to be a sanctuary state? Read below for answers to these questions.

Sanctuary state

California has been home to sanctuary cities for quite some time. These are cities that decide to limit how local police officers cooperate with federal immigration officials. In October, this policy went statewide when Governor Jerry Brown signed new laws.

The laws require ICE officials to get warrants to obtain access to work sites in the state. Local and state law enforcement officials also cannot use funds to help federal immigration services. In addition, employers in California cannot share confidential details about employees to immigration officials without a subpoena. 

Trump immigration threats

The Trump administration has different views on immigration policies than Californian officials. Trump claims that the sanctuary status of the state makes California a hotspot for criminal activity and is threatening to take ICE away. Trump claims that taking ICE away will make Californians realize the importance of cooperation with the federal officers. 

What happens next

Trump has yet to take action on these comments, but there is ongoing tension between him and Brown. California immigration policies differ drastically from the ideas the Trump administration has expressed, so there may be continuing arguments going forward. 

Due to the contentious political environment, it is natural to feel uncertain about immigration status or that of loved ones. An attorney may be able to provide advice and assistance to address these concerns.