U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) has expressed support for a new initiative from the Trump Administration that offers expanded reimbursement opportunities to 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, starting October 1, 2025, ICE will fully reimburse participating agencies for the annual salary and benefits of each eligible trained 287(g) officer. This includes overtime coverage up to 25% of the 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 continued, “The 287(g) program is a longstanding partnership between federal and local law enforcement to combat illegal immigration. 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.”
In August, Senator Graham hosted a roundtable discussion in Greenville, South Carolina with ICE officials and state law enforcement representatives about ICE’s 287(g) program. During this event, he indicated plans to pursue legislation aimed at encouraging greater participation by states and providing more support for state and local law enforcement involved in enforcing federal immigration laws.
According to DHS, additional incentives will be available beginning October 1, including quarterly monetary performance awards for law enforcement agencies based on their assistance with locating individuals identified by ICE as being in violation of federal immigration laws:
– Agencies achieving a success rate between 90% and 100% will receive $1,000 per eligible task force officer.
– Those with an 80%–89% rate will receive $750 per officer.
– Agencies reaching between 70%–79% will receive $500 per officer.
These measures are intended to strengthen collaboration between federal authorities and local partners through financial support tied directly to participation levels and performance within ICE’s mission framework.
