1. United States
2. Md.
3. Letter

Introduce Legislation Allowing Lawsuits Against ICE and DHS for Privacy Violations I am writing to urge you to introduce legislation in Maryland that protects residents from Immigration and Customs Enforcement overreach and creates a private right of action allowing individuals to sue ICE and DHS for privacy violations and constitutional abuses. Recent reports document ICE agents injuring an American citizen during enforcement actions, causing a torn rotator cuff, concussion, and bruised ribs. This incident demonstrates the urgent need for state-level protections and accountability mechanisms. Maryland residents face growing threats to their privacy and constitutional rights from federal immigration enforcement using invasive surveillance technologies. ICE and DHS increasingly rely on Flock camera systems, facial recognition software, and other mass surveillance tools that track residents without warrants or probable cause. These technologies enable dragnet surveillance that captures data on all Marylanders, not just those targeted for immigration enforcement. When federal agents conduct illegal searches and seizures or invade privacy through warrantless surveillance, residents currently have limited recourse under federal law. Legislation should establish a state cause of action allowing Maryland residents to sue ICE and DHS in state court when agents violate their Fourth Amendment rights through illegal searches and seizures, warrantless use of facial recognition technology, unauthorized access to Flock camera data, or other privacy invasions. This would provide meaningful accountability where federal remedies fall short. The legislation should also establish clear guidelines for state and local law enforcement interaction with ICE, protect sensitive locations like schools and hospitals, and prohibit state resources from supporting federal surveillance programs that lack proper oversight. States across the country are responding to increased ICE activity with legislative protections, and Maryland should join them immediately. When federal agents operate without adequate oversight or accountability, everyone's constitutional rights are at risk. Youth-led protests against ICE enforcement reflect growing public concern about these tactics, particularly among younger constituents who will shape Maryland's future. I request that you introduce comprehensive legislation this session that includes a private right of action against ICE and DHS for privacy violations and constitutional abuses. Maryland residents need immediate action and enforceable remedies, not delayed responses after more people are harmed. Will you commit to introducing this legislation?