Bill > HB626

This bill, also known as the "Exonerated 5 Act," establishes a legal principle that a statement made by a minor during a custodial interrogation, which means questioning by law enforcement while the minor is in custody, is presumed to be involuntary and cannot be used in court against them. This presumption applies if a law enforcement officer intentionally used information they knew to be false to get the minor to make that statement. However, this presumption can be overcome if the prosecution can prove with clear and convincing evidence that the statement was voluntary and not a result of the false information used by the officer. The bill aims to protect minors from coercive interrogation tactics and is set to take effect on October 1, 2026.

Justice

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0626?ys=2026RS