Bill > HB139

This bill establishes a structured process for investigating and reviewing police misconduct complaints in Maryland, creating administrative charging committees at both county and statewide levels. These committees will be composed of civilian members appointed from various government bodies and will be responsible for reviewing investigative files from law enforcement agencies regarding misconduct complaints. The bill mandates that the investigating unit of a law enforcement agency must complete its review and forward investigatory files to the administrative charging committee within 9 months of a complaint being filed. The administrative charging committee will then have 30 days to review the files and make a determination about whether the police officer should be administratively charged, and if so, recommend appropriate discipline. The entire review process, from initial investigation to final disposition, must be completed within one year and one day of the complaint's filing. Before serving on these committees, members must receive training on police procedures and are required to maintain confidentiality throughout the investigation. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, and aims to enhance police accountability by providing a standardized, transparent process for handling misconduct complaints.

Justice

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0139?ys=2025RS