CSM Establishes New Immigration Enforcement Response Policy

In accordance with the Maryland Values Act (HB 1222), the College of Southern Maryland (CSM) has implemented an administrative policy for responding to immigration enforcement actions on campus.

The Maryland Values Act requires operators of “sensitive locations” to create a policy addressing immigration enforcement activity consistent with guidance from the Maryland Office of the Attorney General. Sensitive locations as identified in the act include public schools, public libraries, health care facilities operated by State or local government, facilities operated by the Comptroller, and courthouses.

“CSM is committed to providing a safe, welcoming, and respectable environment for our students and employees. As required by State law, and in coordination with legal counsel, this policy is established to provide clear administrative procedures regarding immigration enforcement interactions on any of our campuses,” said CSM President Dr. Yolanda Wilson.

The college’s policy states that private spaces on CSM property are normally limited to authorized students, employees, and invited guests, and outlines procedures to follow if immigration enforcement officers appear on campus or if they request access to private spaces.

According to the Maryland Attorney General’s guidance, until the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) policy was revoked, the Federal Government largely shielded sensitive locations from civil immigration enforcement activities. The guidance says, “[the policies] aim to educate and inform Maryland officials and the general public about how to interact with immigration officials lawfully and in a manner that best promotes the public interest and the provision of essential services.”

The full Immigration Enforcement Response Policy is available in the CSM Administrative Manual.