Sanctuary Promise Hotline sees record engagement, 300 rise in federal request alerts

The Oregon Department of Justice reported a 276% increase in engagement with the Sanctuary Promise Hotline, totaling 128 reports from June 1, 2024, to May 31, 2025. Of these, 34 were formal complaints regarding potential violations of the Sanctuary Promise Act, which was enacted in 2021 to prevent public bodies from assisting federal immigration enforcement without a judicial order. Attorney General Dan Rayfield emphasized the growing public awareness of sanctuary laws, stating that Oregonians are increasingly informed about their rights. Reports from public bodies and law enforcement regarding federal immigration requests also increased by 300%, with Marion County reporting the highest number of requests at 38. The hotline not only serves as a reporting mechanism but also focuses on educational outreach, having reached over 87,000 community members in 2024.

Rayfield reiterated the hotline's importance in ensuring that no individual lives in fear of unlawful information sharing by public entities. The Sanctuary Promise Hotline is accessible in over 240 languages, reinforcing its commitment to cultural responsiveness. This spike in engagement highlights the community's proactive stance in safeguarding sanctuary laws amidst ongoing federal scrutiny.