Federal "sanctuary jurisdictions" list that included Philly disappears
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A federal list unveiled days ago that named Philadelphia and roughly 500 other cities, counties and states as "sanctuary jurisdictions" under review disappeared from the Department of Homeland Security website over the weekend.
The big picture: President Trump has threatened to strip sanctuary cities of federal funding, and the pulled list is sparking confusion about whether those named are at risk.
What they're saying: DHS tells Axios in a statement that the list is "being constantly reviewed and can be changed at any time and will be updated regularly."
- The statement didn't address why the list was removed or whether it will be reposted.
Catch up quick: 16 cities and counties across Pennsylvania — including Philly, Pittsburgh, State College and Montgomery County — were added to the sanctuary jurisdiction list Thursday.
- Inclusion on the list was based on several factors, like noncompliance with federal law enforcement in enforcing immigration laws, per DHS.
Context: In Philly, local police don't enforce immigration law, and the city doesn't give U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement access to a database of people in city custody, per current policy.
- Yes, but: City police can cooperate with federal immigration enforcement if an individual is being released for certain violent crimes and a detainer request is backed up by a warrant.
By the numbers: Philly received approximately $2.2 billion in federal funding in fiscal year 2024.
Between the lines: The potential loss of federal funding could throw a wrench in Mayor Cherelle Parker's agenda.
- The first-term mayor is spending heavily on big-ticket policies, which include proposals for an $800 million housing initiative and cuts to business taxes.
Meanwhile, city solicitor Renee Garcia said last week, after the list was unveiled, that "Philadelphia is not a Sanctuary City. We are a Welcoming City."
- Parker spokesperson Joe Grace said the city stands by Garcia's comment, but he would not answer whether Philadelphia is changing its sanctuary policies.