For Immediate Release: Friday, January 16, 2026
From the Offices of Councilmembers Will Jawando and Kristin Mink
On Tuesday, January 20, County Councilmembers Will Jawando (at-large) and Kristin Mink (District 5) will each introduce a bill responding to ICE activity in the community and host a joint press conference alongside community members and cosponsors of the bills.
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The County Values Act, Bill 3-26, led by Councilmember Mink, mandates that all County facilities require a judicial warrant to allow ICE entry to any areas not open to the general public, post clear signage barring ICE from those areas, and provide staff training. It also prohibits any immigration enforcement activities in County parking lots, garages, and vacant lots; requires County staff to report such activities and install blockades to such areas where appropriate; and mandates that the County post a signage template for optional use by private businesses. The County Values Act is co-sponsored by Councilmembers Kate Stewart (District 4), Jawando, Shebra Evans (at-large), Andrew Friedson (District 1), Laurie-Anne Sayles (at-large), and Evan Glass (at-large).
The Unmask ICE Act, Bill 5-26, led by Councilmember Jawando, prohibits masking by all law enforcement operating in Montgomery County – including ICE – with exceptions for public health and key operational needs. The bill is co-sponsored by Councilmembers Mink, Evans, Stewart, and Sayles.
Following bill introductions during the morning session, Councilmembers Jawando and Mink will hold a press conference with bill co-sponsors, community members who have been impacted by ICE, and community organizations.
Event: Press Conference on Bills 5-26 (Unmask ICE Act) and Bill 3-26 (County Values Act)
Date: Tuesday, January 20, 2026
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Time: 12:30 p.m., following bill introductions
Location: Montgomery County Council Office Building (exact location given upon RSVP)
Who:
- Councilmembers Will Jawando, Kristin Mink and cosponsors
- Community members impacted by ICE
- Community advocates and organizations
Members of the news media should RSVP to David Kunes at [email protected] or via text at 240-350-5104 and/or Chris Wilhelm at [email protected] or via text at 301-706-7843.
Read the original article at mccouncil
Thank you Councilmembers Mink and Jawando for introducing these much needed bills. We cannot allow violent, masked ICE agents to terrorize our neighborhoods. They are violating the civil liberties of citizens and noncitizens alike. Whatever we can do to protect our neighbors and limit the harm done by ICE actions should be a priority.
Wonderful! Just Wonderful! So proud to l8ve in Montgomery County. Such a great multicultural community.