Bill > SB531

This bill, known as the Verbal Waiver Transparency Act, prohibits law enforcement agencies in Maryland from asking individuals suspected of or claiming to be victims of sexually assaultive behavior to verbally acknowledge anything that could relieve the agency of its obligations, limit its investigation, prevent prosecution, or restrict the victim's legal rights. The bill defines "victim" broadly to include anyone suspected of or claiming to have experienced sexually assaultive behavior, and "law enforcement agency" and "sexually assaultive behavior" are defined by referencing other Maryland laws. If a victim requests to limit or suspend an investigation, the agency must document it and follow up according to recommended practices. Violations can lead to legal action by the victim for injunctive or declaratory relief, and all law enforcement agencies are required to adopt policies to enforce these provisions by January 1, 2021, and submit them to the Maryland Sexual Assault Evidence Kit Policy and Funding Committee by January 15, 2021, with the act taking effect on October 1, 2026.