MD HB491

Law enforcement agencies are prohibited from requesting verbal acknowledgements from sexual assault victims that would relieve the agency of obligations, limit investigations, prevent prosecutions, or restrict the victim's private right of action

Expands existing protections that already banned written forms with such provisions to now also cover verbal requests

When victims request investigations be limited or suspended, law enforcement must thoroughly document the request and follow up according to Maryland Police Training and Standards Commission practices

Affected victims may bring legal action seeking injunctive or declaratory relief if a law enforcement agency violates these provisions

Effective October 1, 2026