MarylandSB 03222026 Regular SessionSenate

Courts - Jury Service - Disqualification

Sponsored By: Charles E. Sydnor (Democratic)

Became Law

Courts and Court Personnel - StatewideEx-OffendersFraud -see also- ForgeryJuries -see also- Grand JuriesParole and ProbationPenalties and Sentences -see also- Death PenaltyPerjuryWitnesses

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

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

Criminal record rules for jurors

Beginning Oct 1, 2026, you cannot serve on a jury if you were convicted of a crime punishable by more than 1 year and are still serving the sentence, including parole or probation. You also cannot serve if you have a pending charge for a crime punishable by more than 1 year. A conviction for perjury, witness or jury intimidation, or certain Title 8 crimes also disqualifies you. A pardon no longer restores jury eligibility for these disqualifying convictions.

English and disability rules for jurors

Beginning Oct 1, 2026, you cannot serve on a jury if you cannot understand or speak English. You also cannot serve if you cannot read or write English well enough to complete the juror form. If a health care provider certifies that your disability prevents satisfactory service, you are disqualified. Courts must follow the Americans with Disabilities Act and provide accommodations when federal law requires them.

Who can serve on county juries

Beginning Oct 1, 2026, you qualify for county jury service only if three things are true. You are an adult on the day you are picked as a prospective juror. You are a U.S. citizen. You live in the county on the day you are sworn in.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Charles E. Sydnor
Democratic • Senate

Cosponsors

There are no cosponsors for this bill.

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 129 • No: 47

House vote • 4/13/2026

Third Reading Passed

Yes: 97 • No: 36 • Other: 7

Senate vote • 3/5/2026