Who is allowed to inquire about your immigration status in California?

In California, the appropriate authority to inquire about immigration status is primarily designated to federal law enforcement officers. This distinction is important because it reflects California’s approach to immigration enforcement, which prioritizes local and state law enforcement's ability to focus on community safety without overstepping into immigration enforcement roles typically designated for federal agencies.

While state and local law enforcement officers can often interact with individuals regarding their legal status, the inquiry into immigration status as a primary function or with specific intent can exceed their jurisdiction. This principle has been emphasized in various California laws that restrict cooperation with federal immigration enforcement, encouraging community trust in local policing without fear of being targeted for their immigration status.

Ultimately, the division of responsibilities ensures that immigration-related issues fall under the purview of federal law enforcement, aligning with California's stance on creating a community-focused policing environment.