Senate Bill 888, titled the Immigration Data Privacy Act, would restrict North Carolina state departments, agencies, and institutions from sharing immigration-related data with federal, state, or local government entities for civil immigration enforcement unless the individual consents or the requester presents a lawful judicial order, subpoena, or warrant. If a valid legal process is used, the bill requires the state entity to disclose only the specific records requested.
The bill also creates notice and reporting requirements. State agencies would have to notify the affected individual within three business days after receiving a request for immigration data, and they would have to document each request and submit annual reports to the Attorney General identifying the number of requests, the requesting agency, the resolution, and the legal authority relied upon. The bill includes a severability clause and becomes effective when enacted.
Impact
The bill would amend Chapter 64 of the North Carolina General Statutes by adding a new Article on immigration data privacy, creating new limits on state information-sharing practices related to civil immigration enforcement. It would also impose administrative duties on state agencies to track requests, notify individuals, and report annually to the Attorney General, while authorizing a recurring $1.5 million General Fund appropriation beginning in fiscal year 2026-2027 for implementation, including IT changes, compliance systems, training, staffing, and reporting.
Sentiment
No committee transcripts or recorded votes were provided, so there is no direct evidence of debate or formal support/opposition in the available record. Based on the bill text, the measure appears framed as a privacy and oversight bill, suggesting support from sponsors concerned about limiting immigration-enforcement data sharing and ensuring transparency. The absence of voting history or discussion prevents a reliable assessment of broader legislative sentiment.
Contention
The main points of contention likely involve whether state agencies should be barred from sharing immigration-related data for civil enforcement without consent or a judicial order, and whether the bill’s notice and reporting requirements could burden agencies or interfere with law-enforcement coordination. Another likely issue is the recurring $1.5 million appropriation, which may draw scrutiny over cost and implementation. Supporters would likely emphasize privacy, due process, and transparency, while opponents may argue the bill could hinder immigration enforcement or create administrative complexity.
Condemns federal government's actions in undermining privacy of taxpayer information; demands immediate reversal of federal policy whereby IRS shares private taxpayer information with United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement for immigration enforcement purposes.
Urging Delaware Schools And School Districts To Adopt And Implement Clear Policies Regarding Immigration Enforcement And The Importance Of Student Safety And Data Privacy.