Montana AG Investigates Helena's Sanctuary City Resolution

Thu Feb 12 2026 15:03:58 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Montana's attorney general is looking into the city of Helena for potentially defying state law after the city approved a resolution against cooperating with federal immigration authorities.

Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen has launched an investigation into the city of Helena for possibly violating the state’s sanctuary city ban. The investigation is a response to a resolution passed by Helena officials that discourages cooperation with federal immigration authorities. Knudsen warned that Helena could face fines of up to $10,000 every five days for any violations of a 2021 state law that requires local authorities to assist federal agents. The city stands by its resolution, declaring it aligns with relevant legal standards.

Montana's Republican attorney general said Wednesday he’s investigating the city of Helena for potential violations of the state’s sanctuary city ban, after city officials passed a resolution discouraging cooperation with federal immigration authorities.

The investigation comes amid heightened tensions nationally over President Donald Trump’s aggressive enforcement of immigration laws, which has sparked protests in many cities. Trump has said he intends to cut off federal funding for states home to sanctuary cities that resist his immigration policies.

Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen expressed that Helena faces a fine of up to $10,000 for every five days it’s found in violation of a 2021 state law requiring local authorities to cooperate with federal immigration agents.

The resolution in Helena states city officials shall not disclose to external agencies “any sensitive information,” such as a person’s immigration status or nationality.

Knudsen criticized the City Council’s actions, stating, This is clearly the City Council of Helena thumbing its nose at the Montana Legislature.

Helena officials announced that they were aware of the investigation but had not received official notice. They claimed the resolution was approved following a thorough evaluation of relevant laws. The city remains committed to upholding all federal and state regulations.

Nearly half of states have similar prohibitions against sanctuary cities, according to advocacy groups. Governor Greg Gianforte supported Knudsen's stance, stating that federal agents face hazardous situations during immigration enforcement and emphasized that local governments must comply with state laws.