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The Link Between Immigration Enforcement and Babies’ Health

New research shows the unintended consequences of increased immigration enforcement in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina.

A new study finds that an immigration enforcement program could cause adverse health effects for babies. 

A new study finds that an immigration enforcement program could cause adverse health effects for babies. 

Photographer: Digital Vision/ER Productions Limited via Getty Images

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Since 2002, counties across the U.S. have entered into agreements with Immigrations and Custom Enforcement to deputize local police officers to perform a range of ICE duties.

New research shows that in one county in North Carolina, the program negatively affected birth outcomes, including lowering average birth weights and decreasing the use of prenatal services by parents.