What are the specific limitations on California law enforcement agencies sharing information with federal immigration authorities?

California law significantly restricts state and local law enforcement from sharing information with federal immigration authorities. These "sanctuary" laws are designed to separate local policing from federal immigration enforcement. Here are the key limitations you should understand: Step 1: Understand the General Ban on Assisting ICE California law enforcement agencies are generally prohibited from using their money, facilities, or personnel to investigate, detain, or arrest people for federal immigration enforcement purposes. Police officers and sheriff's deputies cannot ask you about your immigration status during a routine stop or inquiry. Step 2: Know the Rules for Jailhouse Interviews If you are in local jail and federal agents (like ICE or CBP) want to interview you, the jail officials must get your written consent first. They must give you a form that explains the interview is voluntary and that you have the right to decline or have an attorney present. This is required by the TRUTH Act. Step 3: Recognize the Limits on Information Sharing Local law enforcement cannot share your non-public personal information with immigration authorities without a court order. This includes your release date from jail, home address, or work address. They are also barred from giving ICE access to their non-public databases. Step 4: Be Aware of the Major Exceptions These protections are not absolute. Law enforcement can share information and transfer a person to ICE if that person has been convicted of certain serious or violent felonies specified in the law. The list is very specific and does not include most misdemeanors or non-violent offenses. Cooperation is also permitted if federal agents have a judicial warrant signed by a judge. Important Details and Nuances: These laws apply to local and state agencies, including police departments, sheriff's offices, and school police. They do not restrict federal law enforcement agencies like ICE from conducting their own operations within California. Publicly available information, such as criminal court records, can still be accessed by federal authorities. Warnings and Limitations: Even with these state laws, an arrest for any crime can create a public record that ICE may use to find you. These laws limit local assistance but do not grant legal immigration status or prevent federal deportation proceedings. This is general information and does not constitute legal advice. For complex situations, consult with a qualified California immigration or criminal defense attorney.