U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) has expressed support for a new policy from the Trump Administration that introduces expanded reimbursement opportunities for state and local law enforcement agencies partnering with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in efforts to address illegal immigration.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced that, beginning October 1, 2025, ICE will provide full reimbursement to participating agencies for the annual salary and benefits of each eligible trained 287(g) officer. This includes overtime coverage up to 25% of an officer’s annual salary.
“DHS’ decision to reimburse states who participate in the 287(g) program to combat illegal immigration is the right signal to send to enhance this program and keep our nation safe,” said Graham. “I will also be working on a grant program to further incentivize states to participate in the 287(g) program in a meaningful way.”
Graham described the 287(g) program as “a longstanding partnership between federal and local law enforcement to combat illegal immigration.” He added, “Under the Biden Administration, this program died on the vine. I am so pleased the Trump Administration is fully committed to making the 287(g) program one of the most effective tools in the fight against illegal immigration.”
Last month, Senator Graham held a roundtable in Greenville, South Carolina with ICE officials and local law enforcement representatives. The discussion focused on ICE’s 287(g) program, which enables cooperation between state or local police and federal authorities on enforcing federal immigration laws. During this event, Graham stated his intention to work on legislation aimed at further encouraging state participation in the initiative.
Under DHS’s new plan, starting October 1, participating law enforcement agencies will also be eligible for quarterly monetary performance awards based on successful identification of undocumented individuals provided by ICE and assistance given toward ICE’s mission. Agencies can receive $1,000 per eligible task force officer if they achieve a success rate between 90%–100%, $750 for rates between 80%–89%, and $500 for rates between 70%–79%.
