MD HB1497

Occupants of a dwelling or place of business may use any degree of physical force, including deadly force, against someone who has made an unlawful entry and whom the occupant reasonably believes has committed, is committing, or intends to commit a crime beyond the entry itself

The occupant must also reasonably believe the intruder might use physical force, however slight, against an occupant of the dwelling or business

Occupants using force under these circumstances receive immunity from both criminal prosecution and civil liability for injuries or death resulting from the force

Protections do not apply when the person entering is a law enforcement officer, firefighter, or emergency responder performing official duties, or someone with express permission to enter

Effective date: October 1, 2025