Police Discipline - Trial Board Composition

HB 186 amends Maryland law to change the composition of trial boards that handle police discipline cases. It requires the chair of these boards to be an attorney meeting specific qualifications (Maryland resident for 5+ years, admitted to practice, and vetted for integrity), replacing the previous requirement for administrative law judges or retired judges. The bill applies to all local police departments (except Baltimore City Police) and statewide/bi-county agencies, maintaining civilian and officer members but altering the attorney appointment process. Key provisions include new residency, citizenship, and professional qualifications for the attorney chair, with appointments made by county executives or the Chief Administrative Law Judge. The changes take effect October 1, 2025.