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MD HB1359

MD HB1359
Police Pursuits of Fleeing Suspects - Standards (Dimeka Thornton Act)


summary

Introduced
02/13/2026
In Committee
02/13/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead

Introduced Session

2026 Regular Session

Bill Summary

Requiring each law enforcement agency in the State to submit the agency's policy regarding pursuit of fleeing suspects to the Maryland Police Training and Standards Commission annually on or before January 1 each year, beginning in 2027; requiring the Commission, in consultation with the Attorney General and certain law enforcement agencies, to submit a certain report to the Governor and General Assembly annually on or before June 1, beginning in 2027; etc.

AI Summary

This bill, known as the Dimeka Thornton Act, requires every law enforcement agency in Maryland to submit their policy on police pursuits of fleeing suspects to the Maryland Police Training and Standards Commission (the Commission) by January 1st each year, starting in 2027. The Commission, working with the Attorney General and other law enforcement agencies, must then produce an annual report by June 1st, beginning in 2027, detailing the number of pursuits, reasons for starting and ending them, outcomes, any injuries or fatalities, common issues, and recommendations for improvement. Furthermore, by January 1, 2028, the Commission will create a model policy for police pursuits that prioritizes the safety of officers and bystanders, which all agencies must then adopt or exceed by July 1, 2028. This legislation aims to standardize and improve the safety of police pursuits across the state.

Committee Categories

Justice

Sponsors (2)

Last Action

House Judiciary Hearing (13:00:00 3/10/2026 ) (on 03/10/2026)

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