MD SB20

Requires all temporary and final protective orders in domestic violence cases to mandate surrender of firearms, handgun qualification licenses, and carry permits—removing judicial discretion that previously limited firearm surrender to cases involving firearm use/threats or serious bodily harm

Respondents must surrender firearms to law enforcement within 24 hours of being served; those without firearms must submit a sworn affidavit within 2 business days

Petitions for protective orders must now include information about the respondent's firearm ownership, license status, firearm locations, and vehicle details if firearms are stored in a car

Law enforcement must verify compliance within 3 business days and notify the State's Attorney of non-compliance; courts may authorize search warrants to locate and remove firearms from non-compliant respondents

Commissioners issuing interim protective orders must provide petitioners with safety planning resources and contact information for the Maryland Network Against Domestic Violence