MD HB542

Local departments of social services may now request assistance from federal law enforcement officers when investigating cases involving alleged vulnerable adults, expanding beyond the existing authority to request help from state and local law enforcement.

Adult protective services is explicitly added to the list of human services programs subject to information disclosure restrictions, alongside social services, child welfare services, cash assistance, food stamps, and medical assistance.

Information about adult protective services applicants or recipients may be disclosed to government officers or fiduciary institutions when necessary to administer the program, consistent with existing disclosure exceptions for other human services.

Unauthorized disclosure of adult protective services information is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 90 days imprisonment or a fine up to $500, or both.

The act takes effect October 1, 2025.