MD SB854

Federal law enforcement officers may only exercise state-granted powers (making arrests, executing warrants) when acting in accordance with Maryland state law, in addition to existing requirements like participating in joint investigations or responding to emergencies

Law enforcement officers and agencies are prohibited from engaging in racial profiling, defined as relying to any degree on a person's actual or perceived race, ethnicity, or national origin when taking enforcement action (with an exception for seeking specific suspects matching a description)

Law enforcement agencies are prohibited from retaliating against officers who disclose information about racial profiling, and must develop written policies consistent with these requirements by January 1, 2027

Individuals harmed by racial profiling or retaliation may bring civil lawsuits and recover compensatory damages, injunctive relief, attorney's fees, and other appropriate relief

State or local officers deputized under federal agreements remain prohibited from taking any action that violates state law, and the bill takes effect immediately as an emergency measure