The Trump administration has designated Maryland as a “sanctuary jurisdiction,” placing the state at risk of losing billions in federal funding. This move follows President Donald Trump’s executive order aimed at penalizing states and localities that limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) released a list identifying over 500 jurisdictions nationwide as sanctuary areas, including the state of Maryland, eight counties, and ten municipalities. The Maryland counties listed are Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Charles, Howard, Montgomery, Prince George’s, Queen Anne’s, and Talbot. The cities include Annapolis, Baltimore City, Cheverly, College Park, Edmonston, Greenbelt, Hyattsville, Mount Rainier, Rockville, and Takoma Park.
According to DHS, these jurisdictions are deemed noncompliant due to policies that obstruct federal immigration law enforcement, such as limiting information sharing with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and providing legal protections to undocumented immigrants.
The executive order mandates that federal agencies identify grants and contracts that could be suspended or terminated for these jurisdictions. While specific funding cuts have not been detailed, the potential financial impact on Maryland could be substantial, affecting areas like public safety, education, and infrastructure.
Maryland officials have expressed strong opposition to the designation. Governor Wes Moore emphasized the state’s commitment to public safety and constitutional adherence, stating, “Maryland’s law enforcement personnel work tirelessly, in partnership with the federal government, to root out violent crime in our state… Our approach as a state will be driven by public safety – not by meaningless labels or performative actions.”
Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott also pushed back, asserting that Baltimore is a “welcoming city” and not a sanctuary city, as the city does not control its jails. He added, “We are better because of our immigrant neighbors, and we are not about to sell them out to this administration.”
Legal experts anticipate challenges to the administration’s actions, citing previous court rulings that have blocked similar attempts to withhold federal funds from sanctuary jurisdictions. The debate over sanctuary policies continues to be a contentious issue, with significant implications for federal-state relations and immigration enforcement.
As the situation develops, Maryland’s government is exploring all options to protect its residents and maintain critical federal funding, including potential litigation against the federal government.
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