WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 403

Correctional Services - Transfers to Federal Authorities - Undocumented Immigrants (Protecting Marylanders From Violent Offenders Act of 2025)

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Steve Arentz and 23 co-sponsors

Maryland bill requiring automatic transfer of undocumented immigrants convicted of violent crimes to federal immigration authorities for deportation proceedings.

Hearing 3/05 at 3:00 p.m.
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 403

Legislative bill overview

HB 403 would require Maryland correctional authorities to transfer undocumented immigrants convicted of certain crimes to federal immigration authorities for potential deportation proceedings. The bill targets individuals convicted of violent offenses and creates a mandatory transfer process rather than discretionary case-by-case decisions.

Why is this important

This bill directly affects how Maryland coordinates with federal immigration enforcement and determines the consequences for undocumented immigrants in the state's criminal justice system. It represents a significant shift in state-federal cooperation on immigration enforcement and has implications for public safety policy, judicial discretion, and immigrant communities in Maryland.

Potential points of contention

  • Judicial discretion vs. mandatory transfers: The bill eliminates judges' ability to consider individual circumstances, prior ties to community, or rehabilitation potential when deciding whether to refer cases to federal authorities
  • Definition of "violent offenses": The scope of crimes triggering mandatory transfer could be interpreted broadly or narrowly, significantly affecting how many people are impacted
  • Resource and coordination concerns: Implementation requires coordination between state and federal authorities; unclear processes could create delays, duplicative proceedings, or unintended consequences in criminal justice administration
  • Due process and family separation: Mandatory transfers may separate long-term Maryland residents from families and communities without individualized assessment

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.