Maryland Lawmakers Advance Major Legislation to Curb ICE Access to Sensitive Locations

The Maryland House of Delegates has approved a significant bill designed to restrict access for agents of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency, commonly known as ICE, to sensitive locations such as schools, libraries, and places of worship. This legislation, known as Senate Bill 828, passed with a vote of 98-39 and now awaits further action in the state Senate.

Key Provisions of the Legislation

Senate Bill 828 aims to prohibit ICE from conducting operations in sensitive areas without a valid warrant. The bill reflects growing concerns amongst lawmakers and residents that ICE raids are instilling fear within communities. The Democratic-majority legislature emphasizes that these measures are intended to create safer environments for all residents, particularly immigrants.

Next Steps for the Bill

After gaining approval in the House, Senate Bill 828 will return to the Senate. If the amendments introduced during the House deliberations meet with Senate approval, the bill will then move to Governor Wes Moore for final consideration.

Context of the Legislation

This legislative effort comes amidst a broader national trend regarding immigration enforcement. Under former President Donald Trump, deportation efforts intensified, reinforcing promises made during his campaign for office.

Statistics indicate that over 100,000 deportations occurred between Trump’s inauguration on January 20 and the end of March of that year. This figure already eclipses a third of the total deportations recorded during the final year of the Biden administration.

Community Response to ICE Tactics

Maryland lawmakers, particularly those from the Democratic Party, argue that ICE tactics have disproportionately affected immigrant communities, fostering an atmosphere of fear and anxiety. Delegate Karen Simpson, a proponent of the bill, expressed her concerns during the House debate.

Simpson stated, “People in my community have been afraid for far too long. I am thankful to everyone in this body who has voted for this so that we can get rid of 287(g) who has scared our community.” The amendment she refers to targets the 287(g) program, which enables local law enforcement agencies to collaborate with ICE in immigration enforcement activities.

The 287(g) Program Explained

House Bill 1222, which is part of the new legislation, seeks to abolish the 287(g) program in Maryland. This program permits state and local law enforcement agencies to detain individuals on behalf of ICE, keeping them in custody until ICE can take over for deportation proceedings. Advocates for abolishing this program argue that it undermines trust between law enforcement and immigrant communities.

Opposition and Amendments

Opposition to this legislation exists among some Republican lawmakers. Delegate Kathy Szeliga criticized the bill as an effort to foster fear among members of the immigrant community. During the debate, she presented an amendment intended to safeguard public safety by requiring local authorities to inform ICE of criminal illegal aliens listed in the state’s sex offender registry. This amendment would take effect on June 1 if the bill passes.

Future Prospects for the Bill

As the bill heads back to the Senate, Szeliga remains optimistic about its passage despite opposition to her amendments. She remarked, “I hear that the Senate doesn’t love the bill the way it’s been amended. But I believe that they will pass this bill.” The Senate has a short time frame to act, as they must vote on Senate Bill 828 before the Maryland General Assembly adjourns for the year.

Implications for Immigrants in Maryland

If enacted, this legislation could significantly alter the landscape of immigrant rights and protections in Maryland. The advocates see this as a critical step toward ensuring that immigrant communities feel safe when accessing essential services like education and healthcare without the looming threat of deportation.

ICE’s Response

When approached for comment, a spokesperson for ICE declined to provide details regarding their position on the legislative changes. ICE typically refrains from commenting on state legislation, preferring to focus on its operational mandates.

Looking Ahead

This legislative measure represents an important moment in Maryland’s ongoing dialogue about immigration policy and enforcement. As state lawmakers advance legislation aimed at safeguarding sensitive locations from federal immigration enforcement, they also reflect a growing commitment to community safety and trust. The outcome of this bill could have lasting implications not only for Maryland but also for how similar issues are addressed nationwide.