MD SB531

Law enforcement agencies are prohibited from requesting verbal acknowledgements from sexual assault victims that would waive the victim's rights, limit investigations, prevent prosecutions, or restrict private legal actions

Expands existing protections that already banned written waiver forms to now include verbal waiver requests as well

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

Victims may bring legal action seeking injunctive or declaratory relief if law enforcement agencies violate these provisions

Effective date: October 1, 2026