In today’s heightened enforcement environment, executive leaders must be prepared for the possibility of unannounced visits from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and other agencies. The administration has stated repeatedly their goal is to deport as many people as possible and following recent policy changes—including the rescission of the Sensitive Locations Policy—immigration authorities now have broader discretion in where and how they conduct enforcement. These developments underscore the importance of organizational readiness and leadership awareness at the highest levels.
A raid or site visit can disrupt operations, impact employee morale, and carry legal and reputational risks. Understanding the difference between public and non-public areas of your worksite is critical, as is knowing the legal weight of different types of warrants and subpoenas. For instance, an administrative warrant issued by ICE does not permit entry into private areas, while a judicial warrant, signed by a judge, does. Your managers and front-desk staff must be trained to recognize these distinctions and respond appropriately under pressure.
Proactive preparation is key. Executives should ensure their companies have clear protocols, designated points of contact, and up-to-date I-9 documentation. Regular staff training and coordination with legal counsel can protect both the organization and its workforce. As leaders, your role is not only to enforce compliance but also to model calm, informed decision-making during unexpected events. If you haven’t already assessed your organization’s readiness, now is the time to act. Contact HRPivot today to learn how we can help.
