BOULDER, Colo. — As of September 2025, Boulder has not lost specific federal funding solely due to its sanctuary policies. However, since January 2025, the Trump administration has threatened to withhold tens of millions in grants, with $55 million in federal funds for housing, transportation, and social services in limbo as of March. The University of Colorado Boulder has faced over 50 grant cancellations or stop-work orders in 2025, totaling $30 million in losses, linked to broader federal actions against sanctuary jurisdictions.

As of September 8, 2025, Boulder, Colorado, has not reversed its sanctuary city status, despite federal threats to withhold funding. The city, which formalized its sanctuary policy in January 2017, continues to limit cooperation with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), as confirmed by city officials. No council vote to repeal the policy has occurred, though recent discussions and federal actions have heightened tensions.

On May 30, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) listed Boulder among 39 Colorado counties and 14 cities as “sanctuary jurisdictions” for allegedly obstructing federal immigration laws. Boulder County Commissioners defended the designation, stating, “If being a ‘sanctuary jurisdiction’ means we support due process and human rights, we are proud of that moniker,” criticizing DHS’s “baseless claims.” No formal non-compliance notification has been issued.

As of September 2025, Boulder has not lost specific federal funding solely due to its sanctuary policies. However, since January 2025, the Trump administration has threatened to withhold tens of millions in grants, with $55 million in federal funds for housing, transportation, and social services in limbo as of March. The University of Colorado Boulder has faced over 50 grant cancellations or stop-work orders in 2025, totaling $30 million in losses, linked to broader federal actions against sanctuary jurisdictions.

On June 10, 2025, the Boulder City Council discussed its sanctuary status in an executive session but made no policy changes. The 2017 ordinance, prohibiting city employees, including police, from assisting ICE unless required by law, remains in effect. Colorado state law further limits local police involvement in federal immigration enforcement. The Department of Justice sued Colorado and Denver in May 2025 over sanctuary policies, though federal judges have temporarily blocked funding cuts. Boulder’s estimated 7,000 immigrant residents face uncertainty as legal and financial challenges persist.