The Montgomery County Council unanimously passed two bills on Tuesday, November 10, aimed at strengthening protections for immigrant residents, including restrictions on hiring former federal immigration enforcement employees and expanded housing discrimination protections.
Both bills were sponsored by Councilmember Kristin Mink (District 5).
Expedited Bill 29-26, the Community Trust in County Employees Act, prohibits the County from hiring certain individuals who have worked for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Customs and Border Protection (CBP), or in other federal immigration enforcement roles since October 2025. The restrictions apply to County positions that directly serve the public or have decision-making authority over the distribution of resources.
Expedited Bill 38-26 prohibits housing discrimination based on citizenship or immigration status in the sale or rental of housing. It also allows tenants to terminate residential leases early under certain circumstances involving detention or deportation related to immigration proceedings.
“Our first responders, our food and healthcare partners, even our libraries and recreation centers, cannot fulfill their missions and responsibilities to the public without earning and maintaining the trust of the community,” Mink said.
Councilmember Will Jawando, who co-sponsored both bills, praised the legislation as a way to strengthen protections for residents.
Both bills now advance to County Executive Marc Elrich for his signature.
