SB 988 Maryland Senate · 2026 Regular Session

Judicial Facilities - Stops, Detentions, and Arrests - Limitations

SB 988 prohibits law enforcement from stopping, detaining, or arresting individuals for civil offenses (such as traffic tickets or unpaid fines) within judicial facilities (like courthouses) or within one mile of them while traveling to attend a court proceeding. Police must notify the judge beforehand and avoid disrupting court activities to stop someone for a civil matter in these areas. Evidence obtained from violating this law is inadmissible in court, and affected individuals can sue for damages or seek court orders. The Attorney General may also file lawsuits to stop ongoing violations of the law.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2026
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Feb 17, 2026 Last action Mar 6, 2026
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Total actions
3
Key actions
0
Committee
2
Mar 4, 2026
Committee
Rereferred to Judicial Proceedings
upper
Feb 17, 2026
Committee
First Reading Senate Rules
upper
13 primary · 0 co-sponsors

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