MD SB455

Licensed security guard agencies may now apply for appointment of special police officers to protect property owned or leased by their clients, expanding beyond the previous limitation to only protecting their own business property

Amends Section 3-303 of the Public Safety Article of the Maryland Annotated Code to add security guard agencies holding valid licenses under Title 19, Subtitle 3 of the Business Occupations and Professions Article to the list of eligible applicants

Applicants for special police officer commissions must be at least 18 years old and complete an approved 80-hour training course covering criminal law, constitutional search/seizure/arrest requirements, and appropriate use of force

Training requirements are waived for applicants who within the past 5 years completed approved police training, separated from law enforcement in good standing, or completed special police officer training at a State higher education institution

Effective date: October 1, 2025