Richmond enacts trust policy to protect immigrant residents’ privacy

Richmond Mayor Danny Avula announced a new Trust Policy on Monday that sets rules for how city employees interact with residents and handle their personal information regardless of immigration status, WTVR CBS 6 reported.

The policy aims to protect residents’ privacy and build trust in local government by allowing all residents to access city services without fear. It prohibits city employees from requesting or disclosing immigration status unless required by law, court order, or warrant, NBC12 reported.

Richmond Police Department will not inquire about immigration status, and city agencies will not assist federal civil immigration enforcement, according to WTVR CBS 6. The policy also includes training for employees on how to respond if ICE agents appear.

The policy builds on a resolution introduced by City Councilwoman Nicole Jones and has been developed with input from department directors, civil rights organizations, public safety officials, and local immigrants, WTVR CBS 6 said.

Community leaders like Djakaria Konate, president of the African Community Network, welcomed the policy as a long-overdue step to reduce fear among immigrants in Richmond, NBC12 reported.

Richmond Public Schools implemented a similar policy in early 2025. However, the Richmond Sheriff’s Office is not required to follow the city’s Trust Policy as it operates as a separate constitutional office, NBC12 noted.