287(g) press conference amid pending legislation

WICOMICO COUNTY, Md. — Wicomico County Executive Julie Giordano met with state leaders to discuss pending legislation that would prohibit 287(g) partnerships with Immigration Customs and Enforcement in Maryland.

Giordano was joined by Harford County Sheriff Jeff Gahler and Frederick County Sheriff Chuck Jenkins in a final effort to voice their concerns about Senate Bill 245. The group called on Governor Wes Moore to veto the legislation.

“Our state will not be safer. Our communities will not be safer. So, to the members of the General Assembly, do the right thing. Public safety is not a promise. It is not political theater. It is the most basic responsibility of government,” Giordano said.

She added, “Entering into the 287(g) agreement changes that reality. It gives us lawful, controlled access to work with federal authorities to ensure that individuals who pose serious threats are properly identified and vetted while they are already in our custody.”

Governor Wes Moore has not signed the legislation as of now. An update will follow in the future.