Is Immigration Sanctuary Status Legal in Wyoming? (2026)
It depends. In Wyoming, immigration sanctuary status is restricted. Wyoming does not have state-level sanctuary policies and generally cooperates with federal immigration enforcement. Local jurisdictions do not have the authority to declare sanctuary status; efforts at the state level to restrict cooperation have failed..
Key facts
- Status
- Restricted
- Permit required
- No
- Jurisdiction
- Wyoming
- Last reviewed
- 2026-02-22
Immigration Sanctuary Status laws in Wyoming
Wyoming is generally not considered a sanctuary state or jurisdiction. There are no state laws or policies that limit communication or cooperation between state or local law enforcement agencies and federal immigration authorities. Efforts to introduce legislation that would restrict local law enforcement's ability to act as agents of federal immigration enforcement have not been successful. For example, House Bill 145, which would have prohibited local entities from prohibiting their officers from investigating or apprehending individuals based on immigration status, indicates the legislative sentiment. Consequently, state and local law enforcement are generally expected to cooperate with federal immigration agencies like ICE, including honoring detainer requests. While there is no explicit state law mandating cooperation, the absence of sanctuary policies means that local law enforcement agencies are not prohibited from assisting federal immigration officials. This practical reality means that individuals without legal immigration status may face detention and deportation if encountered by local law enforcement officers who choose to cooperate with federal agencies. There are no specific state-level penalties for local entities not enforcing immigration laws, as they are not generally tasked with primary enforcement, but rather with cooperation with federal agencies.
Frequently asked questions
Is immigration sanctuary status legal in Wyoming for travelers?
For travelers visiting Wyoming, immigration sanctuary status is currently restricted. Wyoming is generally not considered a sanctuary state or jurisdiction. There are no state laws or policies that limit communication or cooperation between state or local law enforcement agencies and federal immigration authorities. Efforts to introduce legislation that would restrict local law enforcement's ability to act as agents of federal immigration enforcement have not been successful. For example, House Bill 145, which would have prohibited local entities from prohibiting their officers from investigating or apprehending individuals based on immigration status, indicates the legislative sentiment. Consequently, state and local law enforcement are generally expected to cooperate with federal immigration agencies like ICE, including honoring detainer requests. While there is no explicit state law mandating cooperation, the absence of sanctuary policies means that local law enforcement agencies are not prohibited from assisting federal immigration officials. This practical reality means that individuals without legal immigration status may face detention and deportation if encountered by local law enforcement officers who choose to cooperate with federal agencies. There are no specific state-level penalties for local entities not enforcing immigration laws, as they are not generally tasked with primary enforcement, but rather with cooperation with federal agencies.
Do I need a permit for immigration sanctuary status in Wyoming?
Wyoming does not specifically require a permit for immigration sanctuary status, though general regulations apply.
Can I transport immigration sanctuary status through Wyoming?
Transport laws for immigration sanctuary status in Wyoming depend on the specific item and your route. Generally, transport is allowed if you comply with state regulations. Always check states you pass through.
What are the penalties for immigration sanctuary status violations in Wyoming?
Penalties for immigration sanctuary status violations in Wyoming vary based on the specific offense. Always verify current laws before traveling.