MD HB465

Grants civil immunity to any person who discloses information about allegations of sexually assaultive behavior in good faith

Creates a presumption of good faith that can only be overcome by showing actual malice or intentional/reckless disclosure of false information by a preponderance of the evidence

Requires courts to award reasonable attorney's fees and costs to defendants who successfully defend against claims challenging their good faith disclosure, unless such an award would be "clearly inappropriate"

Covers sexually assaultive behavior including sexual crimes under Maryland law, sexual abuse of minors or vulnerable adults, federal sexual offenses under 18 U.S.C. Chapter 109A, and equivalent offenses under other jurisdictions' laws

Takes effect October 1, 2026