Bill > HB748

This bill authorizes municipalities to allow their enforcement officers (such as code, parking, or traffic enforcement personnel) to use body-worn cameras during their duties. The legislation defines a body-worn digital recording device as a device worn by an officer capable of recording video and intercepting oral communications. The bill establishes legal guidelines for when and how these cameras can be used, including requirements that officers must be in uniform or displaying a badge, making reasonable efforts to follow established standards, and notifying individuals they are being recorded when possible. Municipalities that choose to implement body-worn cameras must develop and publish a policy that is consistent with the Maryland Police Training and Standards Commission's policy for law enforcement body-worn cameras. The bill also clarifies that it is lawful for law enforcement officers to intercept oral communications while using these devices under specific conditions, such as being a party to the communication and making the interception as part of a video or digital recording. The new law will take effect on October 1, 2025, providing municipalities time to prepare and develop appropriate policies for body-worn camera usage.

Justice

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0748?ys=2025RS