Bill > HB21

This bill makes two key changes to Maryland law: first, it modifies the rules for District Court commissioners when issuing arrest warrants by adding a new requirement that the application for a statement of charges must be filed by a police officer or a State's Attorney, and second, it increases the criminal penalty for making false statements to government officials. Specifically, for District Court commissioners, the bill adds a condition that when issuing an arrest warrant, the commissioner must verify that the application is from a law enforcement professional, in addition to already existing requirements like finding probable cause. For false statements to government officials, the bill increases the maximum imprisonment from 6 months to 3 years, while maintaining the existing fine of up to $500. These changes aim to strengthen procedural safeguards in the criminal justice system by ensuring that warrant applications come from official sources and by creating a more significant deterrent for making false reports to government agencies. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, giving state agencies time to prepare for the new requirements.

Justice

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0021?ys=2025RS