Bill > HB890

This bill, titled the "Know Before They Knock" Family Right to Notice Act, aims to enhance the rights of parents and legal guardians during child abuse and neglect investigations in Maryland. Key provisions include requiring that initial on-site interviews during such investigations be conducted with the child's parent or legal guardian, rather than just a caretaker, and mandating that local departments of social services or law enforcement agencies provide parents and legal guardians with specific written and oral notice at the beginning of an investigation. This notice will inform them of their rights, such as not being required to allow entry into their home without a court order or specific legal authorization, their right to be informed of all allegations, their right to consult an attorney before speaking or signing documents, and that any statements made can be used against them. The bill also clarifies that employees of these agencies are not attorneys and cannot provide legal advice.

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https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0890?ys=2026RS