WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 1431

State and Local Agencies - Enforcement of Federal Immigration Law - Restrictions on Access to Information (Maryland Data Privacy Act)

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Gabriel Acevero and 39 co-sponsors

Maryland bill restricts state agencies from sharing personal data with federal immigration enforcement absent judicial warrants, limiting local participation in federal immigration enforcement actions.

Hearing 2/27 at 1:00 p.m.
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1431

Legislative bill overview

HB 1431 restricts Maryland state and local agencies from providing personal information to federal immigration enforcement authorities without a judicial warrant or court order. The bill effectively limits cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration agencies by creating data privacy protections for individuals, regardless of immigration status.

Why is this important

This bill directly addresses sanctuary jurisdiction policies by creating legal barriers to information sharing that federal immigration enforcement relies on for locating and apprehending individuals. It affects how state resources are used in federal enforcement actions and raises questions about the relationship between local, state, and federal law enforcement authority.

Potential points of contention

  • Federal-state authority conflict: Critics argue states cannot legally restrict agencies from sharing information with federal authorities, citing federal supremacy; supporters counter that states can limit their own agencies' participation in federal enforcement
  • Public safety concerns: Opponents worry restrictions could obstruct legitimate federal law enforcement operations and potentially shield individuals with serious criminal histories; proponents argue it protects vulnerable communities and prevents racial profiling
  • Definitional ambiguity: The bill's reliance on "judicial warrant or court order" raises questions about what constitutes sufficient legal process and whether certain federal warrants would qualify under state standards

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

Sign in to ask a question.