Bill > HB592

This bill establishes a Task Force to Study Forced Infant Separation From Incarcerated Individuals, comprised of legislative members, state secretaries (Public Safety and Correctional Services, Health), the Public Defender, and various appointed individuals including formerly incarcerated persons, family members, social workers, attorneys, and representatives from relevant non-profit organizations and unions. This task force, chaired by someone designated by the Governor's Office of Crime Prevention and Policy, will study the number of pregnant and postpartum incarcerated individuals, the feasibility of creating specific spaces for them within correctional facilities, the impact of separating infants from their mothers, and best practices from other states regarding these issues. The ultimate goal is to develop legislative recommendations to reduce forced infant separation and help incarcerated mothers maintain bonds with their children, with a report due to the General Assembly by December 31, 2027. The bill will take effect on July 1, 2026, and will be repealed after two years.

Justice

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0592?ys=2026RS