ANNAPOLIS, MD — A proposal to end Maryland’s cooperation with federal immigration authorities under the 287(g) program failed in the final hours of the legislative session, after lawmakers in the House and Senate could not agree on final bill language.
The measure, known as the “Maryland Values Act,” sought to prohibit local jurisdictions from working with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), including ending the 287(g) program agreements in place across several counties. The program allows local law enforcement to assist ICE in identifying and detaining undocumented immigrants.
State Senator William C. Smith Jr. (D-Montgomery), a leading advocate of the bill, supported stronger limits on all cooperation with ICE. But Senate and House negotiators reportedly could not reach a consensus on whether limited, non-287(g) interaction with federal agents would still be permitted.
As a result, the bill stalled and ultimately died before reaching a final vote. The failure means jurisdictions like Cecil, Frederick, and Harford counties will continue participating in 287(g), while Carroll, Garrett, St. Mary’s, and Washington counties retain more limited cooperation.
“Maybe other counties will join the bandwagon to help remove illegal aliens from our state,” a supporter of the program said in response to the bill’s failure.
County detention centers under scrutiny
ICE recently highlighted that the Baltimore County and Howard County detention centers have released undocumented immigrants without prior notice to ICE, drawing criticism from immigration enforcement advocates. ICE has expressed concern that such practices jeopardize public safety by allowing individuals to avoid immigration processing.
The 287(g) program has been a flashpoint in the state for years. Opponents argue it damages trust between immigrant communities and law enforcement, while supporters say it is a critical tool for enforcing federal immigration law and protecting residents.
The failed legislation marks a setback for immigrant advocacy groups that had pushed for a complete separation between local law enforcement and ICE.
Key Points
- The Maryland Values Act, which sought to end ICE cooperation, failed to pass in the 2025 legislative session.
- The bill stalled due to disagreement between the Maryland House and Senate over limited versus total cooperation with ICE.
- Several counties, including Frederick and Cecil, will continue operating under 287(g) agreements.
The legislative impasse preserves Maryland’s existing ICE partnerships, with some counties maintaining or expanding their involvement in federal immigration enforcement.