Maryland Sheriffs Oppose ICE Restrictions & 287(g) Ban

Sheriffs argue new state laws will hinder public safety and cooperation with federal authorities.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Maryland sheriffs are voicing opposition to a pair of bills currently under consideration in the state Senate that would alter local law enforcement's involvement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The debate comes shortly after Governor Wes Moore signed legislation banning 287(g) agreements – cooperative agreements between local law enforcement and ICE – on February 17.

Why it matters

The opposition from sheriffs highlights a fundamental tension between local control and state-level immigration policy. The debate centers on the balance between assisting federal enforcement efforts and maintaining community trust, particularly among immigrant populations.

The details

Senate Bill 660 would require local law enforcement agencies to respond to ICE activity within their jurisdiction and submit a report. Senate Bill 791, conversely, would restrict local officers from notifying ICE when a person is in custody. Several sheriffs have publicly protested these measures, arguing they infringe on local autonomy and could hinder public safety.

  • On February 17, Governor Wes Moore signed legislation banning 287(g) agreements.
  • Senate Bill 660 and Senate Bill 791 are currently under consideration in the Maryland state Senate.

The players

Wes Moore

The Governor of Maryland who signed legislation banning 287(g) agreements.

Matt Crisafulli

The Worcester County Sheriff who stated the proposed legislation is 'extremely dangerous' and takes away the ability of sheriffs to cooperate with law enforcement partners.

Mike Lewis

The Wicomico County Sheriff who argued the new laws will not diminish ICE activity in Maryland communities and will instead 'amp ICE up on the streets' and lead to increased enforcement efforts.

Jeffrey Gahler

The Harford County Sheriff who recently held a press conference to express his disapproval of the ban on 287(g) agreements and was joined by Patty Morin, whose daughter Rachel Morin was murdered in 2023.

Patty Morin

The mother of Rachel Morin, who was murdered in 2023, and who described 287(g) agreements as 'a safeguard for our community.'

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What’s next

The Maryland Sheriffs' Association is now considering its options, including potential legal action.

The takeaway

The opposition from Maryland sheriffs highlights the ongoing tension between local control and state-level immigration policy, as lawmakers seek to balance public safety concerns with maintaining trust within immigrant communities.