MD SB129

Authorizes police officers to make warrantless arrests when they have probable cause to believe a person battered someone with whom they have had a sexual relationship within the past year, expanding beyond current law covering only spouses and cohabitants

Requires evidence of physical injury, a police report within 48 hours, and immediate arrest necessity (risk of flight, further harm, or evidence tampering) for warrantless arrests to apply

Expands the definition of "victim of domestic violence" under the state's domestic violence program to include individuals who have received severe physical injury or fear imminent injury from a person with whom they had a sexual relationship within the past year

Amends Criminal Procedure Section 2-204(a) and Family Law Section 4-513 of the Annotated Code of Maryland

Takes effect October 1, 2026