 Councilmember Luedtke providing remarks at the Trust Act Press Conference.
Last week, the Montgomery County Council introduced the Trust Act, legislation that reinforces our County’s long-standing commitment to ensuring all residents are safe interacting with local public safety officials — regardless of immigration status. At its core, the Trust Act codifies that County law enforcement doesn't participate in federal immigration enforcement and strengthens protections against discrimination by County agencies.
For many immigrant families, fear and uncertainty can prevent people from reporting crimes, seeking help, or engaging with local services. That makes all of us less safe.
The Trust Act is about rebuilding trust — trust that allows neighbors to speak up, students to learn without fear, and families to access the services they need. Public safety works best when communities and local government stand together.
I believe deeply that we are one people. The Trust Act affirms that principle by making clear that Montgomery County values dignity, fairness, and safety for every resident. I look forward to hearing from the community as this legislation moves forward and to continuing the work of building a county where everyone knows they belong.
 CC: Top Left: Councilmember Luedtke, speakers, and community in Derwood. Top Right: Councilmember Luedtke and Public Safety Officials in Montgomery Village. Bottom Left: Councilmember Luedtke, GOCA leaders and community members in Olney. Bottom Right: Councilmember Luedtke speaking to community members in Damascus.
Over the past few months, we’ve held four public safety town halls across our Upcounty communities, and what stood out most to me was how deeply people care about their neighbors and their neighborhoods. Residents showed up ready to share concerns, lived experiences, and thoughtful ideas — and that engagement truly matters.
I’m grateful to our partners at MCPD, Services to End and Prevent Homelessness and Behavioral Health and Crisis Services at DHHS, and the Upcounty and Mid-County Regional Services Centers for being present, listening, and working collaboratively to respond to real safety needs on the ground.
These conversations are already shaping action — from improved security and coordination in communities like Damascus Gardens to needed improvements in outreach to individuals experiencing homelessness.
As we head into a critical County budget season, this is the moment to stay involved. Public safety works best when it’s built with the community, not for it. Thank you to everyone who participated, and if you want to help keep this momentum going, I encourage you to reach out, stay engaged, and be part of the work ahead.
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