Federal Court Upholds Ban on Immigration Enforcement at Houses of Worship

Baltimore, MD, August 19, 2026 —

A federal appeals court has affirmed a significant ban on immigration enforcement activities at or near more than 1,400 houses of worship. The ruling, which covers sites in 33 states and the District of Columbia, upholds a prior injunction aimed at protecting these religious locations as sensitive areas.

The decision prevents agents from the Department of Homeland Security from conducting immigration enforcement actions at these religious sites. This measure is intended to safeguard the sanctity of worship and ensure that individuals do not face fear or deterrence from attending religious services due to the presence of immigration enforcement.

This legal protection for houses of worship stems from a lawsuit initiated by several congregations. These religious groups argued that immigration enforcement actions conducted at or near their facilities would interfere with their religious practices. Furthermore, they contended that such enforcement would discourage immigrants, including undocumented individuals, from attending services and participating in their faith communities.

The appellate court’s decision reinforces the existing injunction, solidifying the status of these over 1,400 religious sites as locations where immigration enforcement is restricted. The ruling reflects a balance between immigration enforcement objectives and the protection of religious freedom and practice for all individuals, regardless of immigration status.

The specific details of the lawsuit, including the names of the congregations involved and the precise legal arguments beyond the impedance of religious practice and deterrence of attendance, were not provided in the summary. The scope of the injunction covers a broad geographical area, encompassing 33 states and the District of Columbia.

Story summarized from the original created by William J. Ford on marylandmatters.org, see more information here.

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