About
Howard County is home to residents and families from many different backgrounds and countries. The County is committed to ensuring that immigrant residents can access County services, reliable information, and community resources.
This page provides information about immigration-related County policies, federal immigration-enforcement reporting, community resources, schools, and partner organizations. It is intended to help residents understand available resources and connect with trusted information and support.
On this page, you will find:
- Report Immigration Enforcement Activity
- Howard County Immigration Policies
- Immigration Resources & Support
- Schools & Education Resources
- News & Updates
ICE Reporting Form
Important – these reports are for informational purposes only. Submitting a report here helps Howard County track reported federal immigration-enforcement activity in Howard County or on County property; it is not a way to request emergency help or an individual response.
- In an emergency: call 911.
- For immigration-related assistance or support: please visit the resources linked below.
- Submit ICE Reporting Form here.
Our Immigration Policies
Howard County’s Liberty Act (CB63-2020) establishes protections for residents regardless of immigration status and limits the use of County resources to assist with federal immigration enforcement, except where required by law. The Act also includes protections related to the collection and sharing of immigration-status information and prohibits discrimination based on citizenship, nationality, or immigration status.
In 2026, CB17-2026 amended and expanded the Liberty Act, adding additional protections and guidance related to immigration enforcement at County facilities and on County property.
CB17-2026 – Immigration Enforcement at County Facilities
CB17-2026 strengthens Howard County’s policies regarding immigration enforcement at County facilities and properties. The legislation requires the County to provide guidance for employees, establishes procedures for interactions with federal immigration enforcement agents, and limits access to certain nonpublic areas of County facilities unless legally authorized. CB17-2026 was passed as amended and became effective on February 6, 2026.
This guidance outlines procedures for Howard County employees when U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents visit County property. It explains access to public, restricted, and program areas, employee responsibilities, judicial warrant requirements, and restrictions on the use of County resources under Howard County’s Liberty Act.
Optional Business Signage Template
Howard County provides an optional signage template for business owners and leaseholders who wish to identify non-public areas of their property where activities related to civil immigration enforcement are not permitted without appropriate legal authorization. Use of the signage is voluntary and allows businesses to clearly designate areas that are not open to the general public.
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Schools & Partner Policies
- Howard County Public School System (HCPSS) — Information and resources to support immigrant students and families, including guidance related to immigration enforcement and student rights.
- Howard Community College (HCC) — Resources and support for international, immigrant, undocumented, and mixed-status students.