Press Releases - County Council

Statement from Councilmember Jawando on Introduction of the Trust Act

For Immediate Release: Thursday, December 4, 2025

From the Office of Councilmember Will Jawando

New legislation codifies protections for immigrant communities and reaffirms Montgomery County's values

Montgomery County Councilmember Will Jawando today joined lead sponsor Council President Natali Fani-González and fellow Councilmembers in sponsoring the Trust Act. The legislation protects immigrant residents and limits the use of County resources in federal immigration enforcement.

The Council was joined by County Executive Marc Elrich, Police Chief Marc Yamada, students, community and nonprofit leaders, to announce the introduction of the Trust Act.

The Trust Act codifies existing County policies by prohibiting discriminatory practices against immigrants, ensuring County benefits and services are provided regardless of immigration status, and safeguarding the privacy of residents from federal enforcement overreach.

“As the son of a Nigerian immigrant, this is personal to me,” said Councilmember Jawando. “My father came to this country believing America would judge him by his character, not his birthplace. The Trust Act upholds that promise for every family in Montgomery County—whether they came from Nigeria or Nicaragua, Ethiopia or El Salvador, Ukraine or Vietnam.”

Jawando emphasized the moral urgency of the legislation.

“We are witnessing an administration where cruelty is the point—families torn apart, neighbors living in fear, children terrified their parents won't come home. The Trust Act says Montgomery County will not be compliant. When they come for one of us, they come for all of us.”

The Trust Act will be formally introduced on Tuesday, Dec. 9.

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Release ID: 25-403
Media Contact: David Kunes 240-350-5104
Categories: Will Jawando