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Bill

HB 85

State and Local Government - Sanctuary Policies and Enforcement of Federal Immigration Law (Rachel Morin Act)

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Nino Mangione

HB 85 would eliminate Maryland sanctuary policies and mandate local law enforcement cooperation with federal immigration enforcement and ICE detainers.

Hearing 2/19 at 11:00 a.m.
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Bill Summary · HB 85

Legislative bill overview

HB 85 would restrict Maryland's sanctuary policies by requiring state and local law enforcement to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement and comply with federal immigration detainers. The bill is named after Rachel Morin, a Maryland resident killed in 2024, and aims to eliminate policies that limit immigration-related cooperation between local and federal authorities.

Why is this important

This legislation directly challenges Maryland's existing sanctuary protections, which currently limit local police involvement in federal immigration enforcement. The outcome would significantly affect how Maryland communities interact with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), potentially increasing deportations while raising questions about public safety, trust between immigrant communities and police, and local government autonomy in setting enforcement priorities.

Potential points of contention

  • Public safety trade-offs: Law enforcement agencies have argued that sanctuary policies improve community trust and public safety by encouraging immigrants to report crimes without fear of deportation; opponents counter that non-cooperation with federal authorities enables criminals to remain in the country
  • Constitutional and legal authority: Questions exist about whether states can be compelled to enforce federal immigration law and whether such mandates violate the anti-commandeering doctrine limiting federal power over states
  • Resource allocation: Local departments may face operational burdens and costs from increased immigration enforcement duties, while advocates argue resources should focus on local crimes rather than federal immigration matters

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

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