While many new federal policies are making it more difficult for immigrant survivors of domestic and sexual violence to find safety and justice, Tahirih celebrates that the Maryland General Assembly passed a law that protects survivors and recognizes immigrants as valued members of our communities and families. Enacted on the last day of the legislative session and signed by Governor Wes Moore on May 20, 2025, the Maryland Values Act (H.B. 1222) incorporated components from several pro-immigrant bills.
The new Maryland law empowers all survivors of domestic violence to access much-needed public services like hospitals, courts, domestic violence shelters, and other “sensitive locations” without fear of encountering immigration enforcement. It also limits third-party access to government data, including data about immigrants.
Led by Senior Managing Attorney Daniella Prieshoff, the Tahirih Justice Center team in Baltimore joined a coalition of immigrant rights organizations in Maryland led by CASA to advocate for the passage of this bill to protect our clients and all our immigrant neighbors. Daniella provided powerful written testimony on the importance of this legislation to protect the safety and rights of survivors in Maryland. She elevated the experience of our clients, including Clara,* who was recently placed in deportation proceedings by ICE at a courthouse after her hearing for a restraining order against her abusive spouse.
No survivor should have to choose between accessing essential services and the risk of family separation, and with the passage of this law in Maryland, survivors won’t have to.
“At a time when there is so much negative news, it’s important to celebrate these wins in Maryland. Because the Maryland Values Act passed, immigrant survivors can continue to seek help at hospitals, rape crisis centers, and domestic violence shelters without fear of being arrested,” Daniella said. “They can send their children to school knowing that they’ll come home safely. Maryland is standing up for immigrants and the safety of all Marylanders.”
Tahirih celebrates this victory that will help ensure all survivors in Maryland can find safety in the community. Donate to support Tahirih’s efforts — in Maryland and across the country — here.
