SAFE ACT (SB 98) - Federal Immigration Notification Requirements
UC Merced affirms its commitment to our international students, staff and faculty, as well as members of our undocumented community and supports their ability to work, learn, teach and thrive on our campuses. This page provides information about policies, procedures and resources related to possible federal immigration enforcement activities on our campuses.
Sharing this information is essential to protecting the safety, dignity and well-being of UC Merced students, staff and faculty. It is also required under guidance from the UC Office of the President and California laws SB 98 (2025) and AB 21 (2017), which together establish procedures designed to ensure campus environments remain safe and inclusive for all individuals, regardless of immigration status.
If federal immigration enforcement activity is confirmed on campus, UC Merced will issue an email notification. This “SAFE ACT (SB 98) Alert” will include available information regarding the time and location of the enforcement activity, as well as resources available to members of the campus community.
If you personally observe U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers engaged in enforcement activities on campus and would like to report, please call (209) 228-2677.
It is important to distinguish immigration enforcement activity from non-enforcement activity. Federal immigration agencies may be present on campus for routine, non-enforcement purposes, such as immigration or visa processing. SAFE ACT Alert notifications are issued only in response to confirmed immigration enforcement activity.
For additional information about University of California policies and procedures related to undocumented members of the community, including legal rights and guidance in the event of immigration enforcement activity, please review the resources available at the links below:
Thank you for helping ensure UC Merced remains a welcoming and inclusive campus grounded in respect and trust.