The Justice Department released a list Tuesday naming Connecticut as one of 12 states it says have policies that impede enforcement of federal immigration laws.

The department said the listed states and cities have "policies, laws, or regulations that impede enforcement of federal immigration laws."

Connecticut Attorney General William Tong responded, saying the term "sanctuary state" has no legal meaning.

"It is the policy of the State of Connecticut to respect, honor and protect immigrants and immigrant families in compliance with the law," Tong said.