MD HB1293

Behavioral health programs operating inpatient facilities must take affirmative steps to determine whether residents are required to register under the Maryland Sex Offender Registry, including directly asking residents and verifying their status on the registry.

Programs with residents required to register must inform them of their legal obligations, coordinate with law enforcement or registry authorities, and document compliance efforts.

First violations result in a written notice of deficiency and required corrective action plan; second violations carry civil penalties up to $5,000 per violation with enhanced monitoring.

Third or subsequent violations carry civil penalties up to $10,000 per violation, and the Department may impose licensing sanctions including probation, suspension, revocation, or denial of renewal.

Programs are not required to register residents on their behalf or make legal determinations beyond reasonable verification of registration status. Effective date: October 1, 2026.