The "UPLIFT Act" aims to enhance public safety by addressing the infiltration of American communities by transnational criminal organizations and the associated rise in crime and illicit drug flow. Its core purpose is to mandate that law enforcement and public servants in so-called "sanctuary jurisdictions" fully cooperate with federal immigration enforcement agencies, specifically the Departments of Justice and Homeland Security.

The bill significantly expands the existing prohibition on state and local noncompliance with federal immigration laws. It explicitly states that no government entity or individual may restrict compliance with immigration laws or assistance to federal enforcement, including inquiries into immigration status for individuals suspected of crimes, notifying federal authorities about such individuals, and complying with federal information requests. Furthermore, it removes restrictions on government involvement in private immigration detention facilities, allowing for agreements, property sales, and financial support related to their operation. The Secretary of Homeland Security is required to annually identify and report non-compliant states or local entities, and local governments are granted standing to sue their state for violations causing financial harm.

A key provision clarifies and strengthens the authority of ICE detainers, permitting the Secretary to issue them for individuals arrested for criminal or motor vehicle violations if there is probable cause of inadmissibility or deportability. Jurisdictions that comply with these detainers are granted immunity from civil liability, with the Federal government assuming responsibility as the defendant in civil actions, except in cases of mistreatment. Crucially, the bill establishes a private right of action for victims of serious crimes committed by aliens who were released from custody because a jurisdiction failed to honor an ICE detainer.