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SB 792

Hospitals - Immigration Enforcement Action - Policy Requirement

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Clarence Lam

Maryland SB 792 prohibits hospitals from voluntarily cooperating with federal immigration enforcement absent court orders, protecting patient access to healthcare without immigration-related detention or detention.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 162
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Bill Summary · SB 792

Legislative bill overview

SB 792 establishes a policy requirement prohibiting Maryland hospitals from cooperating with federal immigration enforcement actions unless compelled by court order or legal process. The bill restricts hospitals from voluntarily providing immigration agents access to patients, medical records, or facilities, and prevents hospitals from detaining patients based solely on immigration status.

Why is this important

Hospitals serve vulnerable populations regardless of immigration status, and this policy directly affects patient trust and access to healthcare. The bill attempts to balance public health interests with immigration enforcement, potentially impacting how federal agencies conduct operations within healthcare settings and how undocumented immigrants seek medical care without fear.

Potential points of contention

  • Enforcement mechanisms: The bill lacks clear penalties or enforcement procedures for hospital violations, raising questions about how compliance will be monitored and what consequences non-compliant hospitals face.
  • Federal preemption questions: Courts may challenge whether states can restrict private hospital cooperation with federal immigration authorities under federal immigration law supremacy.
  • Public safety concerns: Critics may argue that limiting information sharing could obstruct investigations of serious crimes or prevent hospitals from reporting criminal conduct unrelated to immigration status.

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

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