BART Considers 'Sanctuary In Transit' Policy
OAKLAND (CBS SF) – Amid increased scrutiny on sanctuary cities, Bay Area Rapid Transit is now considering a "Sanctuary in Transit" policy that would protect undocumented riders from federal immigration officials.
Currently, BART Police can contact federal agents after arresting an undocumented rider.
At Thursday's BART Board meeting, two members called for the policy to be changed, urging a policy that would prohibit police from cooperating with federal immigration agents.
The proposal follows President Donald Trump's executive order that would crack down on sanctuary cities by threatening to strip federal funding. Several jurisdictions, including San Francisco, are suing the administration.
State lawmakers have also proposed expanding sanctuary city policies throughout California, which has led to additional threats to cut funding by Mr. Trump.
BART will discuss the potential new policy at a board meeting next month before making its decision.