Bill > SB544

This bill establishes minimum adequate security standards for all courthouse facilities in Maryland, requiring that court security officers meet the qualifications of a special police officer. Starting July 1, 2027, entities responsible for courthouse security must strive to have at least one court security officer present in each courtroom for criminal, family, or juvenile proceedings, and two officers for proceedings involving incarcerated individuals or those likely to be taken into custody, with an additional officer for every four courtrooms on each floor. By July 1, 2029, these requirements will expand to include all types of court proceedings, maintaining the same staffing levels for specific situations and additional officers per floor. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2026.

Justice

Judicial Proceedings (Senate)

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0544?ys=2026RS