(WBFF) — In a closely contested decision, the Baltimore County Council approved the ‘Trust Act’ by a 4-3 vote, a measure that limits local law enforcement’s cooperation with federal immigration officers.

The act, which prohibits the county from inquiring about individuals’ immigration status in most cases, has been a focal point for immigration rights groups demanding local politicians cease assisting federal immigration officers.

Council members expressed strong opinions during the meeting. “We have an administration right now that has no compassion. That has no empathy,” said Councilman Izzy Patoka, who proposed the measure. “We have to be as strong as we can and push back as far as we can, just like people are doing in Minneapolis.”

Read full article and view video: Trust Act approved as council splits 4-3, sparking warnings of massive funding loss