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MD HB699

MD HB699
Maryland Use of Force Statute - Failure to Prevent Excessive Force or Render First Aid - Misdemeanor


summary

Introduced
02/02/2026
In Committee
02/02/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead

Introduced Session

2026 Regular Session

Bill Summary

Prohibiting a police officer from intentionally violating the requirement that a police officer intervene to prevent or terminate the use of certain force by another police officer; prohibiting a police officer from intentionally violating the requirement to render certain first aid to a person injured as a result of police action and request certain assistance at a certain time; and classifying a violation of the Act by an officer as a misdemeanor and providing, on conviction, a term of imprisonment of up to 5 years.

AI Summary

This bill, known as the Maryland Use of Force Statute, establishes new misdemeanor offenses for police officers who fail to uphold specific duties related to the use of force and rendering aid. Specifically, it prohibits a police officer from intentionally failing to intervene to stop another officer from using excessive force, meaning force beyond what is legally authorized. It also prohibits an officer from intentionally failing to provide basic first aid to someone injured during police action and to promptly request medical assistance, when circumstances allow. A violation of these specific duties, if intentional, will be classified as a misdemeanor, punishable by up to five years in prison. This legislation aims to increase accountability for police officers in Maryland regarding their actions and inactions during encounters involving force and injury.

Committee Categories

Justice

Sponsors (12)

Last Action

House Judiciary Hearing (13:00:00 2/24/2026 ) (on 02/24/2026)

bill text


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