The County Council’s Public Safety Committee unanimously passed Bill 5-26, the Unmask ICE Act, led by Councilmember Will Jawando (At-Large) and cosponsored by Councilmembers Kristin Mink (District 5), Kate Stewart (District 4), Shebra Evans (At-Large), Laurie-Anne Sayles (At-Large), and Evan Glass (At-Large).
The legislation would prohibit federal, state and local law enforcement officers from wearing masks or facial coverings while on duty in Montgomery County, with limited exceptions. The amended version aligns with state legislation recently passed and awaiting the Governor’s signature, which takes effect October 1, 2026. Key amendments include an identification requirement, a complaint process allowing law enforcement officers or members of the public to report violations through an online portal, and a sunset provision tied to implementation of state policy.
“I am grateful to the Public Safety Committee for their thoughtful and productive consideration of the Unmask ICE Act,” Councilmember Jawando stated, adding that the measure reflects the county’s commitment to its values amid federal policy concerns.
Councilmember Mink emphasized that “masked ICE agents terrorizing our community” undermine local authority, asserting the Act allows Montgomery County to enforce accountability without waiting for state implementation.
Council President Natali Fani-González supported the measure, noting it “delivers the transparency our public safety systems urgently need” by requiring officer identification and strengthening accountability.
The TPSS Community Safety Network expressed strong support, stating the legislation addresses how “masked, armed agents operating in our neighborhoods spread fear.”
The full Council is scheduled to review and vote on this legislation April 28, 2026.
Release ID: 26-149 Media Contact: David Kunes, 240-350-5104