BREAKING: Gov. Moore Signs Bill Prohibiting 287(g) Agreements; Wicomico to Exit

MARYLAND – Governor Wes Moore signed a bill into law on Tuesday that prohibits Maryland law enforcement agencies from entering 287(g) partnerships with Immigration Customs and Enforcement (ICE).

The law also prohibits State and local jurisdictions from deputizing officers for federal civil immigration enforcement activity. The legislation was created under SB 245/HB 444, and is effective immediately.

“In Maryland, we defend Constitutional rights and Constitutional policing—and we will not allow untrained, unqualified, and unaccountable ICE agents to deputize our law enforcement officers,” said Governor Moore. “This bill draws a clear line: we will continue to work with federal partners to hold violent offenders accountable, but we refuse to blur the lines between state and federal authority in ways that undermine the trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve. Maryland is a community of immigrants, and that’s one of our greatest strengths because this country is incomplete without each and every one of us.”

Moore expressed concerns surrounding the rampant growth in funding for ICE operations, citing that the organization was given $85 billion in the 2025 fiscal budget — a $75 billion increase from the year prior.

“As an immigrant, this bill is deeply personal to me,” said Lieutenant Governor Aruna Miller. “Immigrants make Maryland stronger every day, and our communities are safer when everyone feels protected and valued. This legislation ensures that our law enforcement resources remain focused on keeping Marylanders safe, not on actions that create fear in our neighborhoods. I thank the bill sponsors and Governor Moore for their leadership in ensuring Maryland remains a place where dignity and opportunity go hand in hand.”

Wicomico County Executive Julie Giordano told WMDT that the County would be exiting their agreement following the signing of the legislation. Wicomico County had just recently entered a 287(g) partnership at the end of January.  This announcement follows a press conference held by Giordano and several county sheriffs on Feb. 9.

To watch the full signing ceremony, click here.

WMDT will continue to report on this story as details are made available.