MD SB650

Local departments and law enforcement must provide oral and written notice to parents/legal guardians at initial contact during child abuse or neglect investigations, informing them of their rights including: no requirement to allow home entry without a court order, right to consult an attorney before speaking with investigators, and no obligation to sign documents or submit to drug tests unless court-ordered

On-site interviews following abuse/neglect reports must be conducted with the child's parent or legal guardian rather than with a "caretaker" as previously permitted

Parents/guardians must be informed that any statements made by family members or household occupants may be used against them in administrative or court proceedings, and that exercising their rights (including refusing entry) may result in the department filing a petition for child removal

Written notices must be provided in clear, simple language the parent can understand, read aloud if the parent is unable to read, and the Department must develop a system to document proof of notice

Effective date: October 1, 2026