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HB 832

Public Safety - State Law Enforcement Agencies - Hiring Restriction (ICE Breaker Act)

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Gabriel Acevero and 24 co-sponsors

Maryland bill prohibits state law enforcement from hiring former ICE officers, restricting recruits with immigration enforcement background from joining state police agencies.

Hearing 2/25 at 1:00 p.m.
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 832

Legislative bill overview

HB 832, known as the "ICE Breaker Act," restricts state law enforcement agencies in Maryland from hiring individuals with prior employment history at U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The bill aims to prevent former federal immigration enforcement officers from joining state police forces and other state law enforcement agencies.

Why is this important

This bill addresses concerns about the relationship between state and federal immigration enforcement, reflecting broader debates about sanctuary policies and local cooperation with federal immigration authorities. It could significantly impact hiring practices for Maryland's state police and other law enforcement agencies by limiting their recruitment pool.

Potential points of contention

  • Law enforcement autonomy: State police leadership and hiring officials may argue the restriction interferes with their ability to recruit qualified candidates based on individual merit and qualifications
  • Employment discrimination concerns: Critics may contend that blanket restrictions on hiring based on prior federal employment could raise legal and fairness questions
  • Practical enforcement challenges: Questions about how agencies would verify ICE employment history and whether the restriction applies to all ICE positions or only enforcement roles
  • National security perspective: Some argue that experience in federal law enforcement agencies, including ICE, could be valuable for state agencies addressing serious crimes

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

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