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MarylandSB 02982026 Regular SessionSenate

Department of General Services - Maryland Capitol Police - Statewide Jurisdiction

Sponsored By: Shaneka Henson (Democratic)

Signed by Governor

Criminal Law - ProceduresCrimes and Punishments -see also- Penalties and Sentnc; etc.General Services, Department ofInvestigations and Inquiries -see also- Crim Bckgrnd InvestJurisdictionLaw Enforcement -see also- SRO; Sheriffs; State PoliceMotor Vehicles -see also- Aband Veh; Ambulances; Buses; etc.NoticesParkingPublic Buildings and Facilities -see also- Stadiums; St Hse

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

5 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 3 mixed.

New structure for Capitol Police

Starting July 1, 2026, the Department of General Services establishes the Maryland Capitol Police as a police and security force with statewide jurisdiction. The Secretary appoints a Chief who serves at the Secretary’s pleasure and runs the force. The force may include sworn police officers.

Statewide powers for Capitol Police

Beginning July 1, 2026, Maryland Capitol Police can investigate and enforce criminal, parking, and motor vehicle laws statewide. Their jurisdiction includes State-owned or -leased buildings and grounds and extends 2,000 feet from those properties. Officers have the same powers as other State peace and police officers, and must act within the Department’s jurisdiction and rules.

Officer training and transfer protections

Beginning July 1, 2026, Maryland Capitol Police members cannot be moved from one site to another against their will. To use peace officer powers, an officer must meet state training standards and be designated by the Department.

Legislative leaders control building access

Starting July 1, 2026, the presiding officers of the General Assembly have final authority over use of and access to State legislative buildings in Annapolis. This applies to members, their staff, and Department of Legislative Services personnel.

New coordination rules with local police

Beginning July 1, 2026, officers must give advance notice to the Secretary of State Police before statewide actions, unless there is an emergency. After actions, they must notify local chiefs, and in Baltimore City the Police Commissioner and Sheriff, plus named State law‑enforcement leaders. All notifications must follow State regulations, policies, procedures, and memoranda of understanding. Before using powers in Baltimore City, the Maryland Capitol Police must have a written MOU with the Baltimore Police Department.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

  • Shaneka Henson

    Democratic • Senate

Cosponsors

There are no cosponsors for this bill.

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 216 • No: 0

House vote • 4/10/2026

Third Reading Passed

Yes: 130 • No: 0 • Other: 3

Senate vote • 4/10/2026

Third Reading Passed

Yes: 42 • No: 0 • Other: 3

Senate vote • 2/26/2026

Third Reading Passed

Yes: 44 • No: 0 • Other: 3

Actions Timeline

  1. Approved by the Governor - Chapter 263

    4/28/2026

  2. Passed Enrolled

    4/10/2026Senate

  3. Third Reading Passed (42-0)

    4/10/2026Senate

  4. Senate Concurs House Amendments

    4/10/2026Senate

  5. Third Reading Passed (130-0)

    4/10/2026House

  6. Second Reading Passed with Amendments

    4/9/2026House

  7. Favorable with Amendments {233624/1 Adopted

    4/9/2026House

  8. Favorable with Amendments Report by Judiciary

    4/9/2026House

  9. Referred Judiciary

    2/27/2026House

  10. Third Reading Passed (44-0)

    2/26/2026Senate

  11. Second Reading Passed with Amendments

    2/24/2026Senate

  12. Favorable with Amendments {413820/1 Adopted

    2/24/2026Senate

  13. Favorable with Amendments Report by Judicial Proceedings

    2/23/2026Senate

  14. Hearing 2/05 at 1:00 p.m.

    1/22/2026Senate

  15. First Reading Judicial Proceedings

    1/21/2026Senate

Bill Text

  • Enrolled

    4/10/2026

    PDF

  • Third Reading

    2/24/2026

    PDF

  • First Reading

    1/21/2026

    PDF

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