(WBFF) — Maryland lawmakers are advancing a bill to ban the 287(g) program, which currently allows local law enforcement to collaborate with ICE in identifying and detaining undocumented immigrants in detention centers.
The bill, Senate Bill 245, has sparked a heated debate, with supporters arguing that the program is rooted in racial profiling. However, many sheriffs and county executives are urging Gov. Moore to veto the bill, citing public safety concerns.
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“This is an emergency bill – third reader for passage,” a lawmaker said during the vote.
Opponents of the bill, including sheriffs and county executives, argued that the program enhances community safety by removing undocumented immigrants convicted of crimes.
Julie Giordano, Wicomico County Executive, highlighted the severity of offenses committed by undocumented individuals in her jurisdiction, stating, “More than 300 undocumented individuals have moved through my correctional facility during that time. And most of them repeat offenders. The charges associated with these individuals are not minor. They include first and second degree murder.”
Harford County Sheriff Jeff Gahler emphasized the bipartisan history of the program, noting, “This is a democrat program. President Bill Clinton created this program. President Obama expanded the program and accepted my office into it.”
Patty Morin, whose daughter Rachel was killed by an undocumented immigrant, expressed her concerns about eliminating the program. “By abolishing it, criminals are going to think they have the freedom to commit crimes and come and go as they please,” she said. Morin fears that ending the program could lead to more tragedies like her daughter’s. “Nine or 12 of these murders have happened in the last year or two, here in Maryland. And I think the program helps to identify these people,” she added.
As the bill awaits Gov. Moore’s decision, many sheriffs worry he may prioritize party lines over public safety.
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