In a significant shift in immigration policy, Maryland Governor Wes Moore has signed a law that prohibits local law enforcement from cooperating with federal immigration authorities, effectively halting the longstanding practice of questioning inmates about their citizenship status and turning over individuals to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Since 2008, Frederick County alone has transferred 1,884 people to ICE, but this new legislation marks a turning point.
The move reflects a broader resistance by Democratic-led states against the federal immigration enforcement policies that gained traction during the Trump administration. Currently, ten states have enacted laws that limit cooperation with ICE, signaling a trend toward more protective measures for immigrant rights. This shift comes in the wake of heightened scrutiny over aggressive immigration tactics and controversial actions taken by federal agents, particularly in light of recent deadly incidents involving ICE.
Opponents of the new law, including Frederick County Sheriff Charles Jenkins, have expressed concerns that ending cooperation will compromise public safety, arguing that it may lead to more criminal activity as individuals previously held on immigration detainers are released. Jenkins stated, “I’m extremely disappointed with the legislation, because really and truly, it’s going to put the public at risk in a lot of ways.”
The law is part of a larger pattern in which states like New Mexico and Virginia are enacting similar prohibitions. In New Mexico, new legislation recently took effect limiting cooperation with ICE for detention contracts. Virginia lawmakers have also taken steps to increase oversight of agreements with ICE, reflecting a growing consensus among Democratic officials that prioritizes civil rights and community safety.
The Trump administration’s expansion of the 287(g) program, which allows local law enforcement to act as federal immigration agents, has fueled criticism and resistance. Under this program, the number of cooperative agreements has surged from 135 to over 1,400 across 41 states. However, states like Maryland are now pushing back, with legislators emphasizing the need for a humane approach that values empathy and the contributions of immigrant communities.
While supporters of the new law celebrate its passage as a victory for civil rights, some predict it may prompt the federal government to increase its presence in Maryland, potentially leading to heightened enforcement actions. The Department of Homeland Security has asserted that the law may lead to more significant risks for public safety, necessitating a more visible federal law enforcement presence in local communities.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, pressures from residents and lawmakers across the nation are prompting states to take action that reflects their values toward immigration and community protection. With the ongoing debate over immigration policy, it remains to be seen how these new laws will impact the balance between public safety and the rights of individuals living in the U.S.