In Montgomery County, we are one people. Our safety, dignity, and future are shared. The Trust Act reflects that truth and reaffirms that immigrant families are valued, respected, and belong here.

The Trust Act keeps our focus where it belongs: local police protecting our community, not enforcing federal immigration law. That clear line strengthens public safety for all residents.

From a public safety perspective, trust saves lives. When residents trust local government and local law enforcement, communities are safer, cooperation is stronger, and everyone benefits.

No student should worry about a parent not coming home. No family should hesitate to call 9-1-1, report a crime, or seek help when they need it.

At the announcement of this legislation, Tracy Espinoza, a Watkins Mill high schooler, bravely shared how immigration fear follows young people into school every day, and how its directly impacted her family.

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This bill is about clarity, dignity, and safety. It codifies existing practices so our community knows what to expect from local law enforcement and that they never should be afraid to come forward.

With a busy County budget season coming up, we could make real progress and we can do it now.

We need your support, your engagement, and your passion to help make it happen!

We're so appreciative of all who showed up last night to explain what they're seeing, their concerns, and their ideas for what must be improved.

If you're interested in helping improve Damascus, shoot us an email: [email protected].

We're constantly working to improve public safety and get Damascus and our Upcounty the resources they deserve.

Last week, we had the first meeting of an internal task force aimed at increasing homeless services and outreach in Damascus, where the unhoused population has grown.

The County quickly moved to get an overhead security camera to the community, the District Community Action Team to conduct targeted enforcement, and Damascus Gardens has since improved its internal security camera system and is joining the County's Real-Time Intelligence Center.

How does this partnership work on the ground?

Last night, we discussed how - working with Police our Regional Services Center and the management at Damascus Gardens - we were able to urgently improve safety and security for the residents of this community after a shooting this summer.

This is a community that cares deeply.

And it's a community that deserves more services and more attention.

Thank you 5D Commander Nick Picerno, Mónica Martín from Behavioral Health Services, and Upcounty RSC Director Rubén Rosario for taking part and showing the importance of staying connected.