Congressman Pat Harrigan Introduces GUARD Act to Enforce Immigration Law and End Sanctuary Gridlock

Contact: Lexi Kranich (814) 380-4408

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Congressman Pat Harrigan (NC-10) introduced the Guarding U.S. Authority for Removal and Detention (GUARD) Act, legislation to authorize National Guard deployments for immigration enforcement and impose tough penalties on those who assault federal immigration officers.

“Sanctuary policies have turned entire cities into safe havens for violent criminals,” said Congressman Harrigan. “Now we have governors blocking National Guard deployments that would help protect our communities. It’s dangerous, irresponsible, and exactly why this bill is needed. The federal government has a duty to act when states refuse to do their job.”

The GUARD Act responds to violent anti-ICE protests and the refusal of officials like California Governor Gavin Newsom to support federal enforcement efforts. The bill reasserts the President’s authority to act when states won’t.

The GUARD Act will:

• Allow the President to deploy the National Guard under federal orders to enforce immigration law
• Create a targeted exception to the Posse Comitatus Act for immigration and border security operations
• Impose mandatory sentences of 5–20 years for assaults on immigration officers, and life or death if the assault results in death

Congressman Harrigan is calling on Congress to pass the GUARD Act and ensure federal law can be enforced regardless of state politics.