CASA advocates for HB 1222 to combat ICE's 287g agreements in Maryland

The Maryland General Assembly's Judicial Proceedings Committee convened on March 27, 2025, to discuss critical issues surrounding immigration enforcement, particularly focusing on the implications of 287(g) agreements. These agreements allow local law enforcement to collaborate with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in detaining individuals for immigration violations.

During the session, Nicholas Katz, general counsel at CASA, a prominent advocacy organization, highlighted the significant increase in 287(g) agreements both in Maryland and across the nation since January 2020. Katz emphasized that these agreements compel localities to allocate resources to support ICE's deportation efforts, often without regard for the circumstances of the individuals involved. He pointed out that 92 percent of detainers issued under 287(g) in Maryland over the past seven years were for individuals with no serious criminal convictions, raising concerns about the fairness and targeting of these policies.

Katz argued that 287(g) agreements undermine community trust in law enforcement, as they effectively transform local police into agents of ICE. He noted that individuals affected by these agreements are often those who have been found not guilty, had their charges dismissed, or were released pretrial. This creates an environment of fear among immigrant communities, where families worry about the safety of daily activities, such as going to work or school.

The committee was urged to support House Bill 1222, which seeks to amend the current immigration enforcement practices and protect vulnerable communities from aggressive deportation tactics. Katz's testimony underscored the urgent need for reform in the immigration system, particularly in light of increased enforcement actions that have heightened anxiety among black and brown families in Maryland.

As the committee deliberates on these issues, the implications of their decisions could significantly impact local law enforcement practices and the lives of many residents in Maryland. The discussions reflect a broader national conversation about immigration policy and community safety, highlighting the need for a balanced approach that respects both public safety and the rights of individuals.