MD HB550

Creates a civil cause of action in Maryland courts against federal law enforcement officers who deprive individuals of rights, privileges, or immunities secured by the U.S. Constitution while acting under color of law

Defines "federal law enforcement officer" as an officer authorized to make arrests for violations of the United States Code and carry firearms in the performance of duties

Permits defendants to assert absolute or qualified immunity defenses to the same extent as under 42 U.S.C. § 1983, and preserves sovereign immunity defenses

Establishes a 5-year statute of limitations and allows courts to award attorney's fees and expert witness fees to prevailing plaintiffs

Applies retroactively to causes of action arising on or after March 1, 2025, and takes effect immediately as an emergency measure