Bill > HB492

This bill establishes minimum adequate security standards for all courthouse facilities in Maryland, requiring that court security officers meet the qualifications for a special peace officer as defined in the Public Safety Article. Beginning July 1, 2027, entities responsible for courthouse security must make best efforts to have at least one court security officer present in each courtroom for criminal, family, or juvenile proceedings, two officers for proceedings involving incarcerated individuals or those likely to be taken into custody, and one additional officer for every four or fewer courtrooms on each floor. Starting July 1, 2029, these requirements will be expanded to include one officer for any type of proceeding, two officers for proceedings involving incarcerated or potentially detained individuals, and the same additional officer ratio per floor.

Justice

Judiciary (House)

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0492?ys=2026RS