Maryland’s pro-immigration policy sparks backlash as advocacy group criticizes push to end ICE cooperation

A polarizing immigration bill in Maryland draws fire from critics who accuse state leaders of putting public safety at risk by blocking ICE collaboration.
Migrants crossing U.S. border during Biden administration.
Migrants crossing U.S. border during Biden administration.

BALTIMORE, MD — An advocacy group opposing illegal immigration has launched a renewed campaign against Maryland lawmakers who support legislation limiting cooperation with federal immigration enforcement, accusing them of undermining public safety and enabling criminal activity.

Key Points

  • Advocacy group “Help Save Maryland” criticized lawmakers backing the Maryland Values Act, a bill restricting state cooperation with ICE.
  • The bill seeks to end 287(g) agreements between Maryland counties and federal immigration authorities.
  • Opponents claim the bill endangers residents by limiting the deportation of criminal noncitizens.

Bill under fire from critics

Maryland's pro-immigration policy sparks backlash as advocacy group criticizes push to end ICE cooperation
A sign in some U.S. border towns warning that migrant crossings are prevalent in the area.

At the center of the controversy is the “Maryland Values Act,” legislation introduced by State Delegate Nicole Williams (D-Prince George’s) and supported by State Senator William Smith Jr. (D-Montgomery), which would terminate 287(g) cooperative agreements between county law enforcement and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). These agreements allow local authorities to hold and identify noncitizens with criminal records for federal immigration processing.

Currently, Cecil, Frederick, and Harford counties have full 287(g) agreements under the Jail Enforcement Model, while four others maintain limited partnerships. The state’s largest jurisdictions, including Montgomery and Prince George’s counties, do not participate in the program.

According to “Help Save Maryland,” ending these agreements would “allow illegal aliens to overcrowd our schools, bankrupt our hospitals, monopolize our social services… and steal our jobs,” the group wrote in a recent newsletter.

Elected officials defend policy direction

Supporters of the bill argue that it protects immigrant communities from overreach and promotes trust between residents and law enforcement. In a recent quote, Sen. Smith said, “We have an obligation to do everything we can to protect those who are here paying taxes, going to work, going to school, contributing to our society.”

The group, however, singled out Smith, Williams, and Congressman Jamie Raskin (D-MD) for criticism, accusing them of siding with “criminal aliens and gangbangers.” It also claimed that Maryland’s stance contrasts with states like Virginia and Florida, which maintain active ICE partnerships.

The Maryland Values Act was pending in the state Senate at the time of the newsletter’s release. No final vote had been announced.