Bill
Bill > SB1
summary
Introduced
01/14/2026
01/14/2026
In Committee
02/04/2026
02/04/2026
Crossed Over
02/03/2026
02/03/2026
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2026 Regular Session
Bill Summary
Requiring the Maryland Police Training and Standards Commission to develop a model policy prohibiting the use of a face covering in the performance of duty; requiring a law enforcement agency to adopt a policy consistent with the model policy developed by the Commission; and prohibiting a certain law enforcement officer from wearing a certain face covering while in the performance of duty in the State, except when actively engaged in an undercover operation.
AI Summary
This bill requires the Maryland Police Training and Standards Commission to create a uniform policy that law enforcement agencies must follow regarding the use of face coverings by officers while on duty, with exceptions for undercover operations and situations absolutely necessary for health or safety, such as inclement weather. The policy must emphasize the agency's commitment to transparency and public trust, limiting the authorized use of face coverings to specific circumstances and clarifying that general fear is not sufficient justification. Importantly, no county, municipality, or law enforcement agency can create its own policy on this matter, and officers who violate this rule will be subject to a civil offense with a fine of up to $1,500, rather than a criminal misdemeanor.
Committee Categories
Justice
Sponsors (18)
Malcolm Augustine (D)*,
Pamela Beidle (D),
Ben Brooks (D),
Brian Feldman (D),
Bill Ferguson (D),
Guy Guzzone (D),
Shelly Hettleman (D),
Cheryl Kagan (D),
Nancy King (D),
Ben Kramer (D),
Clarence Lam (D),
Sara Love (D),
Anthony Muse (D),
Jim Rosapepe (D),
Will Smith (D),
Charles Sydnor (D),
Karen Young (D),
Craig Zucker (D),
Last Action
Referred Judiciary (on 02/04/2026)
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