New Laws in Kansas Directly Affecting Our Immigrant Community

Kansas | July 1, 2026

Planeta Venus

What the Latino Community Needs to Know to Protect Themselves

Infographic made with AI for editorial purposes | Planeta Venus

Recently, Kansas passed several new laws that will affect the daily lives of those who live here. It is very important for the Latino community to understand these rules well, especially HB 2372, SB 366, and SB 403. Here's what they're about, how they can increase the risk of detention and deportation, and what you can do to protect yourself.

Traffic Rules: Cell Phones and License Plates (SB 366 and SB 403). Now, when driving in Kansas, you have to be more careful. SB 366 prohibits using a cell phone in your hand while driving in school and construction zones, but it does allow hands-free devices. For the first year, the police will only give warnings. However, as of July 1, 2027, breaching this rule will result in a fine of about $60.

SB 403 states that covers, decorative frames, or other objects that cover or obstruct the visibility of any part of the plate may not be used. This includes covering the state's name, numbers, or registration stickers, even if only part of them.

Why is this important for our community? These minor violations can result in a traffic citation that leads to deportation proceedings. Things like using your cell phone in your hand or having a frame that covers your badge give the police a legal reason to stop you. If you are unlicensed, have prior fines, or are asked about your immigration status by officers, a simple stop can become complicated and lead to serious consequences.

Interactions with Police and ICE (HB 2372) HB 2372 creates a new offense called "unlawful approach to a first responder." It is now illegal to approach police, firefighters, paramedics, and some federal officers (such as ICE agents) if they ask you to stop or walk away. It is recommended to maintain a distance of about 25 feet to avoid violating this law.

This law can cause fear in the community because people might be afraid to record videos or see what is going on with the police or ICE, for fear of being arrested for being "too close" or "distracting" officers.

How to Record Officers Safely: If you see an arrest and want to record it, keep a safe distance (at least 25 feet if you are tipped off), stay on the public sidewalk, and do not cross police tape or speak during the arrest.

County Jails and the Presence of ICE: A troubling change is that some federal vehicles, including unidentified ICE vehicles, are now considered "emergency vehicles" under Kansas traffic laws. This gives them special status in traffic situations.

Sheriffs and some local jails now also have more authority to hold people for civil immigration matters. This makes it easier for jails to work with ICE and become immigration detention centers. Thus, a common arrest, such as driving without a license, can lead to your transfer to ICE and significantly increase the risk of deportation for non-citizens.

Final Recommendations: If you know someone who is taken to a county jail, they will most likely be placed on an "immigration detainer/hold." This allows the jail to hold you for ICE. In these cases, seek specialized legal help as soon as possible.

To protect yourself every day: Immediately remove any frames or covers from your license plate that cover letters or numbers, use a cell phone holder in the car (hands-free), and don't use your phone in school or construction zones. Stay informed and share this information with your family to avoid unnecessary detentions.