The Trump administration has reversed long-standing policies that designated schools, churches, and hospitals as “sensitive locations” off-limits for immigration enforcement. This policy change, announced by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), ends over a decade of restrictions, granting immigration authorities the ability to arrest individuals in these locations.

In a statement emphasizing the need to eliminate spaces where individuals could evade law enforcement, the DHS declared, “Criminals will no longer be able to hide in America’s schools and churches to avoid arrest. The Trump Administration will not tie the hands of our brave law enforcement, and instead trusts them to use common sense.”

The directive, issued by Acting DHS Secretary Benjamin Huffman, also reinstates the nationwide use of expedited removal, a policy allowing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to quickly deport undocumented individuals unable to prove continuous residence in the United States for over two years.

This move aligns with broader immigration enforcement measures under President Donald Trump’s administration. In the same week, Trump signed several executive orders aimed at tightening immigration controls. These include suspending the refugee system, blocking access to an app used for facilitating U.S. entry, and enhancing cooperation between ICE and local governments.

ICE agents are now authorized to conduct nationwide operations targeting undocumented individuals. Tom Homan, Trump’s border czar, confirmed that enforcement efforts would commence immediately, with officers actively implementing immigration laws across the country.

Advocacy groups and community leaders have raised significant concerns about the potential impacts of these new policies. The Center for Law and Social Policy warned that the changes could deter families from seeking critical services, including medical care, disaster relief, and education, particularly for those with U.S.-citizen children. The organization also highlighted the psychological toll on children, who may witness traumatic encounters between their families and immigration officials.

Religious leaders have also voiced their opposition. During a sermon at an inaugural prayer service, the Episcopal Bishop of Washington called for compassion toward immigrants and vulnerable populations, urging the administration to reconsider its approach.

The removal of protections for sensitive locations marks a significant shift in U.S. immigration policy. While the Trump administration argues that the changes are necessary for national security and effective law enforcement, critics argue they could exacerbate fear and insecurity among immigrant communities, undermining trust in institutions like schools, churches, and healthcare facilities.

As these policies are implemented, debates over their legality and ethical implications are likely to intensify, further polarizing public opinion on immigration in the United States.