MD HB492

Establishes minimum adequate security standards for all Maryland courthouse facilities, requiring court security officers to meet Special Police Officer qualifications under § 3-301 of the Public Safety Article

Beginning July 1, 2027, requires at least one court security officer in each courtroom for criminal, family, or juvenile proceedings, and two officers for proceedings involving incarcerated individuals or those who may be remanded to custody

Beginning July 1, 2029, expands the one-officer minimum to all types of court proceedings, while maintaining the two-officer requirement for proceedings involving incarcerated individuals

Requires one additional court security officer for every four or fewer courtrooms on each courthouse floor under both implementation phases

Takes effect October 1, 2026, with phased implementation of security staffing requirements through 2029