Story perspectives

Maryland Senate Considers Immigration Bills Amid Trust Issues

1/26/2026

Center

Senate Considers Immigration

The Maryland Senate Judiciary Committee held a hearing on SB 245 to end local participation in the federal 287(g) program, citing trust concerns.
The hearing also examined SB 1 to limit law enforcement's use of face coverings, with supporters seeking greater accountability.
In Utah, SB136 failed to advance despite public testimony supporting it, raising concerns about local-federal immigration enforcement cooperation.

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ICE Masking Controversy

Only 31% of Americans support masking by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and many Republicans prefer agents in uniform.
A federal judge called the practice disingenuous and said it undermines police legitimacy.
The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) says threats against ICE agents have surged, but evidence for masks remains weak.
California's No Secret Police Act aims to restrict masking but faces legal challenges due to federal supremacy.

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Senate Considers Immigration

The Maryland Senate Judiciary Committee held a hearing on SB 245 to end local participation in the federal 287(g) program, citing trust concerns.
The hearing also examined SB 1 to limit law enforcement's use of face coverings, with supporters seeking greater accountability.
In Utah, SB136 failed to advance despite public testimony supporting it, raising concerns about local-federal immigration enforcement cooperation.

1 / 2