Gianforte signs bill banning sanctuary cities in Montana

HELENA, Mont. — Montana Republican Gov. Greg Gianforte signed a bill banning sanctuary cities in the state.

Montana does not currently have any sanctuary cities.

The bill signed Wednesday will require state and local law enforcement to comply with federal immigration law and empower the state's attorney general to pursue civil action against jurisdictions that do not comply.

Supporters of the measure say sanctuary cities lead to increased criminal activity. Opponents say the measure will foster distrust of law enforcement.

Gianforte's decision to sign the bill comes after former Democratic Gov. Steve Bullock vetoed a similar measure in 2019.

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