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MD HB1266

Bill

Official Source

Status

Introduced

2/12/2026

Primary Sponsor

William Valentine

Click for details

Origin

House of Delegates

2026 Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Law enforcement agencies must submit sexual assault evidence collection kits to forensic laboratories within 30 days of receiving the kit, rather than waiting until all associated reference standards are also received
  • The 30-day submission deadline now starts when the kit is received; reference standards must still be submitted but no longer delay the initial kit submission
  • Exceptions to mandatory submission remain unchanged: clear evidence disproving the allegation, facts that wouldn't constitute a sexual assault offense, victim declining consent, or suspect already in CODIS and pleading guilty
  • Law enforcement agencies must utilize certified sexual assault crisis programs or community-based victim service organizations to support survivors
  • Effective date: October 1, 2026

Legislative Description

Criminal Procedure - Victims of Sexual Assault Offenses - Test Kit Submission Requirements

Law Enforcement

Last Action

Withdrawn by Sponsor

3/16/2026

Committee Referrals

Judiciary2/12/2026

Full Bill Text

No bill text available