No Community Development Block Grants for Sanctuary Cities Act

This bill would block federal Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) from going to any state or local government that is a “sanctuary jurisdiction.” It defines a sanctuary jurisdiction as one that has a law or policy stopping officials from sharing information about someone’s immigration status, or from honoring lawful Department of Homeland Security detainer or release‑notification requests under federal immigration law. There is an exception so that places are not labeled “sanctuary” just because they protect victims or witnesses who come forward about a crime. Grantees must also certify they are not, and will not become, a sanctuary jurisdiction for the period they receive the grant.

Key points:

• Who is affected: States and local governments seeking CDBG funding.
• What changes: Those deemed “sanctuary jurisdictions” cannot receive CDBG funds; applicants must certify they are not and won’t become one during the grant period.
• Exception: Policies that protect crime victims or witnesses who come forward do not, by themselves, make a place a sanctuary jurisdiction.