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SB 20

Family and Law Enforcement Protection Act

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Shelly Hettleman

Maryland SB 20 establishes unspecified protections for law enforcement families, pending Judicial Proceedings Committee review and January 2026 hearing.

First Reading Judicial Proceedings
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 20

Legislative bill overview

SB 20, the Family and Law Enforcement Protection Act, is a Maryland bill currently in early legislative stages that addresses protections for families and law enforcement personnel. The bill has been referred to the Judicial Proceedings committee and is scheduled for its first hearing on January 20, 2026. Without access to the full bill text, the specific provisions and protections being proposed cannot be detailed.

Why is this important

Legislation addressing family and law enforcement protections typically impacts public safety policy, officer safety standards, and family support systems. Such bills can affect resource allocation, workplace conditions, and legal frameworks governing law enforcement operations and officer welfare. The outcome may influence policing practices and support services across Maryland.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of protections: Disagreement over whether protections should emphasize officer safety measures, family support services, or both, and how broadly "protection" is defined
  • Enforcement mechanisms and funding: Questions about implementation costs, which agencies bear responsibility, and whether adequate resources are allocated to enforce new provisions
  • Balance with accountability: Potential tension between measures protecting officers and families versus transparency, civilian oversight, and accountability standards that some stakeholders may prioritize

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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