Bill > SB298

This bill expands the jurisdiction of the Maryland Capitol Police, which is part of the Department of General Services, to have statewide police authority over the operation, maintenance, and protection of State-owned or State-leased buildings and grounds, extending to a 2,000-foot radius around them, as well as other public improvements or grounds designated by law or the Board of Public Works. This means Capitol Police officers can enforce criminal laws and motor vehicle laws across the entire state in relation to these State properties. The bill also clarifies that if Capitol Police officers exercise these expanded powers, they must notify the Secretary of State Police or their designee in advance, unless an emergency exists, and also notify other relevant local law enforcement agencies and officials after the fact, with specific notification requirements for Baltimore City, including a required memorandum of understanding with the Baltimore Police Department before exercising powers there. The bill also specifies that this Act takes effect on July 1, 2026.