CLASP Testimony to the Maryland State Legislature in Support of the Protecting Sensitive Locations Act
By Priya Pandey
CLASP submitted testimony to the Maryland State Legislature this week in support of the Protecting Sensitive Locations Act (SB 828/HB 1006). With the rescission of the former Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Protected Areas Guidance, immigrant families are living with uncertainty and fear that has made them hesitant to seek out medical attention and critical services, drop off their children at school, and carry out everyday activities. Legislation like this bill at the state level can help address the gaps left by the rescission and support educators, healthcare workers, and other service providers in navigating the uncertainty and supporting the children and families they serve. Additionally, heightened immigration enforcement efforts undermine access to critical programs, putting families’ health and well-being at risk, including for U.S. citizen children in mixed-status families. Protecting sensitive locations from immigration enforcement is essential to ensuring all our community members can access basic services and support without fear.