Introduce the “Courthouse Access and Justice Protection Act” Statewide

I am writing as a citizen of Iowa to ask that you take immediate legislative action to protect the integrity of our courts and the safety of the people who depend on them. I urge you to introduce and support the Courthouse Access and Justice Protection Act, a law that would make it illegal for federal immigration agents to conduct civil arrests in or around Iowa courthouses. In recent months, federal immigration agents have been documented waiting at courthouses to detain individuals attending hearings — including victims of domestic violence, witnesses, and those seeking legal protection. These arrests, often based on administrative immigration warrants rather than criminal charges, have caused widespread fear and discouraged people from appearing in court. When citizens and residents are afraid to enter the courthouse, justice itself breaks down. Cook County, Illinois, faced this same crisis. In October 2025, Chief Judge Timothy Evans issued an order declaring courthouses off-limits to civil immigration arrests. He reminded the nation that “justice depends on people being able to walk into court without fear or obstruction.” His order restored public confidence in the courts and reaffirmed that access to justice is a constitutional right, not a privilege granted by circumstance. Iowa now has the same moral and civic responsibility. Our courts must be safe spaces where all people — regardless of citizenship status — can appear, testify, and seek help without intimidation. This is not a question of partisanship or immigration politics; it is about preserving the rule of law and the sanctity of the judiciary. The Courthouse Access and Justice Protection Act would: • Prohibit civil immigration arrests within or around courthouse grounds statewide. • Classify any such arrest as contempt of court. • Authorize local sheriffs and court deputies to enforce this rule. • Post clear signage declaring Iowa courthouses to be safe, neutral zones of justice. This measure does not interfere with lawful criminal warrants issued by federal or state judges. It simply ensures that civil immigration enforcement does not disrupt judicial proceedings or endanger the people our laws are meant to protect. As your constituent, I ask that you sponsor this bill at both the state and federal levels, or in partnership with local officials where appropriate. Iowa can lead with courage and integrity, showing the nation that our courts belong to the people — not to fear. Justice cannot live where fear rules the door. Please act now to keep Iowa’s courthouses open, safe, and free for all.