Newsom signs California laws targeting ICE detention practices

Gov. Gavin Newsom signed legislation this week that bans shock gloves and similar stun devices for use by immigration officers in California and imposes a new tax on certain private detention centers used by Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Democrats in Sacramento moved the package after reports that ICE was exploring purchases of shock devices for field officers. The bills also expand state oversight of conditions inside facilities that house immigration detainees.

The bills

One measure prohibits the sale and use of specified electroshock gloves and related devices by immigration enforcement personnel operating in the state. Another creates a detention-center tax intended to discourage expansion of private facilities under state jurisdiction.

Supporters said the laws respond to documented injuries and to community opposition to expanded detention capacity. Opponents argued that the measures interfere with federal authority and could make it harder to hold people subject to removal orders.

Federal response

Federal officials have previously challenged state limits on cooperation with ICE and are expected to review whether the new tax and device ban conflict with federal supremacy principles. No lawsuit had been filed at the time of the signing.

ICE has not publicly detailed any finalized purchase of shock gloves. The agency has said it continuously evaluates equipment for officer safety and for compliance with use-of-force policy.

National debate

California's package is the latest in a series of state-level efforts to regulate the tools and facilities used in immigration enforcement. Similar debates are underway in other large states over local cooperation, data sharing and the siting of detention centers.

The midterm campaign has elevated immigration enforcement as a national issue; state actions like California's ensure the fight will continue in legislatures and courts regardless of the November results.