The Maryland office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) today welcomed the Maryland General Assembly’s passage of legislation prohibiting local governments and law enforcement agencies from entering or continuing cooperative enforcement agreements with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) under the federal 287(g) program.
SEE: Maryland ICE-related bills pass, chambers to reconcile legislation
The legislation, Senate Bill 245/House Bill 444 – approved by both the Maryland House of Delegates and Senate last evening – represents a significant step toward protecting immigrant communities, safeguarding civil rights, and strengthening public trust between Maryland residents and local law enforcement.
The bill prohibits local police departments, sheriff’s offices, and correctional agencies from entering into or maintaining 287(g) agreements, which authorize local law enforcement officers to perform certain federal immigration enforcement functions. These agreements have historically allowed local officers to question individuals about their immigration status and detain non-citizens for extended periods to facilitate transfer to federal immigration custody.
Advocates and civil rights organizations have long warned that these programs erode trust in law enforcement, discourage victims and witnesses from reporting crimes, and disproportionately impact Muslim, immigrant, and minority communities.
“Today’s vote sends a powerful message that Maryland is committed to protecting civil rights, preserving due process, and ensuring that local public safety agencies remain focused on community safety – not federal immigration enforcement,” said CAIR Maryland Director Zainab Chaudry. “For immigrant families, and many communities of color, programs like 287(g) have created widespread fear and uncertainty. When residents are afraid to report crimes, seek emergency help, or cooperate with law enforcement, entire communities become less safe. This legislation helps restore trust and strengthens public safety for all Marylanders.”
CAIR noted that immigrant families across the state have expressed concern that local-federal enforcement partnerships can lead to family separations, community surveillance, and disproportionate targeting of vulnerable populations.
The legislation now heads to Governor Wes Moore for consideration. If signed, the law would take effect immediately due to its emergency designation. CAIR urges the Governor to sign the legislation into law and reaffirm Maryland’s commitment to civil rights and community-centered public safety policies.
The civil rights group encourages community members to remain engaged by contacting elected officials, participating in public hearings, and supporting efforts that promote equitable and accountable public safety policies.
CAIR’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
La misión de CAIR es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia, y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos.
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CONTACT: CAIR Maryland Director Zainab Chaudry, zchaudry@cair.com, 410-971-6062; CAIR National Deputy Director Edward Ahmed Mitchell, 404-285-9530, e-Mitchell@cair.com; CAIR National Communications Director Ibrahim Hooper, 202-744-7726, ihooper@cair.com