City response to federal immigration enforcement

The City of Bloomington recognizes that recent federal immigration enforcement activity has disrupted lives and created significant anxiety for many in our community. We want residents to know that this is being treated with care, seriousness, and sustained attention.

In response, the City has strengthened communication with residents, expanded access to legal and housing resources, provided guidance to City staff, and coordinated with regional partners to understand and respond to local impacts. This work is ongoing.

Bloomington has joined nine other Twin Cities metro-area suburbs in supporting a federal lawsuit challenging ICE activity that is disrupting schools, businesses, and access to public services. We argue that certain enforcement tactics undermine community safety and should be limited to constitutionally appropriate operations. The lawsuit is ongoing.

While the City does not control immigration enforcement, we do have a responsibility to provide stability, clarity, and support. Bloomington police do not enforce federal immigration law, and no one should hesitate to call 911 or seek City services because of their immigration status. We are committed to maintaining trust between residents and local government so our community remains safe and connected.

This page brings together the most up-to-date information, including FAQs, official statements, and links to community and legal resources. We encourage residents to use these tools and to check back as we continue to update information in response to changing conditions.

Zach Walker
City manager

January 24

Mayoral statement on fatal federal shooting in Minneapolis

The mayor offers condolences after the fatal federal shooting of Alex Pretti and calls for de-escalation, accountability, and community safety.

January 16

Bloomington City Council responds to activities surrounding immigration enforcement

The Bloomington City Council affirms our long-standing commitment to being a welcoming and inclusive city where all people —can live, learn, work, and engage with local government without fear.

December 6

Statement from the City of Bloomington on federal immigration law enforcement in our community

Federal government agents are in our community to assist with the administration’s immigration law enforcement. According to the administration they are targeting individuals who are undocumented or who have committed crimes in their own countries or in the U.S.

Community support resources

View a list of community support resources where you can donate, volunteer or access food and other supplies.
Hennepin County is providing responsive services for individuals, families and communities.
Get connected quickly to one or more mental health resources on our community health resources page.
The Bloomington Community Brain Health Unit offers free mental health therapy for Bloomington residents.
To report a human rights violation, visit our web page or contact the Human Rights Commission staff liaison Natalie Kirk, Equity and Inclusion Project Manager.
Business resources from the State of Minnesota and partner organizations to help you understand your rights and responsibilities, prepare your workplace, and connect with guidance.

Utilities

Utility assistance may also be available through Community Action Partnership of Hennepin County and VEAP.
If you are having trouble paying your utility bills, please contact your individual utility provider to find out about flexible payments and other resources available. Xcel Energy has implemented new temporary protections to help customers impacted by the current events who have lost income, are not able to go to work, or may be fearful to reach out for the regular protections offered to customers. More information is available in the drop down below.

Xcel Energy details

Xcel Energy suspended disconnections for residential and commercial customers in Minneapolis and St. Paul, effective January 27.
Effective February 10, Xcel is extending that suspension to all seven Metro counties, through the end of February.
Customers do not need to call the company to request this disconnection protection. However, their bills will continue to accrue during the suspension, customerss are urged to call 800-895-4999 so Xecel can connect them with flexible payment arrangements and energy assistance.
Currently, Xcel offers one late payment charge forgiveness per year to any customer who requests it, so customers who indicate impact from recent immigration actions can contact Xcel (same number as above) and request a late payment charge removal for their account.
Customer service agents have been instructed to treat immigration actions, safety concerns and loss of income as extenuating circumstances. This means they can offer more flexible pay arrangements, with down payments lower than the usual 10%.
For percent-of-income affordability programs where customers are normally removed if they miss 2 payments, Xcel is suspending removals through end of February as well.
Any personal information shared with an Xcel Energy customer service representative is protected by the Minnesota Consumer Data Privacy Act, Minnesota Public Utilities Commission rules, and Xcel's own Privacy Practices.
Xcel Energy uses bilingual agents and a Language Line (3-way interpreter service) to provide customer service in all major languages spoken in the Twin Cities Metro.
Customers in need of assistance should reach out to Xcel Energy Customer Service at 800-895-4999, or manage their bill online.

Legal resources

We recognize that the recent surge in federal immigration enforcement may be causing stress and uncertainty for members of the communities we serve. Immigration law is highly complex, and everyone’s circumstances are unique. While it is not the City’s role to provide advice on individual civil matters, we remain committed to supporting our community by sharing links below to trusted legal resources and additional support services. This is not legal advice. For legal advice, contact a lawyer.

If you believe a loved one or community member may have been detained by Immigration and Customs and Enforcement, the following resources are available to help you find information and support.

Know your rights

If federal immigration agents come to your home ...

Do not open the door unless they have a warrant signed by a judge with your correct name and address.
You can ask them to show you the warrant through a window or under a door.
If there is no valid warrant, you have the right to keep your door closed.

If you have an interaction with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) ...

You have the right to remain silent and do not have to answer ICE’s questions.
You have the right to speak with a lawyer and should not answer questions without one present.
You should not sign any documents without fully understanding them. ICE may ask you to sign away your right to see a lawyer or a judge.
Carry valid U.S. immigration documents, such as a work permit or green card, if you have them.
Do not carry false documents or papers from another country, such as a foreign passport.
You do not need to show immigration documents before speaking with a lawyer.
Remain as calm as possible during interactions with ICE and do not run away.

If you witness ICE activity involving others ...

You have the right to take photos, videos, and written notes.

Source: Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota: Know your rights (PDF)

Will the Bloomington Police Department ask for my immigration status if I call 911?

Does the Bloomington Police Department keep a list of undocumented immigrants?

Does the Bloomington Police Department enforce federal immigration laws?

Have federal agencies asked the Bloomington Police Department to assist with immigration enforcement?

What is the "whole of government" approach to immigration enforcement?

This term refers to the federal government's strategy of using multiple federal agencies to enforce immigration laws, including Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Federal Bureau of Investigation
(FBI), US Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and U.S. Marshals. However, this does not involve local law enforcement agencies like Bloomington Police Department.

Does the Bloomington Police Department check my immigration status during a traffic stop?

Uniforms worn by City of Bloomington employees

Many City of Bloomington employees who work in the field wear uniforms. This may include staff from police, fire, public works, and inspections who interact with and provide services for the community and businesses.

There are multiple federal agencies in the Twin Cities area. To become familiar with uniforms worn by City of Bloomington employees, please review the photos on this page.

City employees will never ask someone for their immigration status or participate with any federal immigration enforcement activity. City of Bloomington police officers do not wear masks to hide their identity.