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HB 923

Family Law - Equity Courts - Care and Custody of Children (Uniform Nondiscrimination in Treatment and Evidence (UNITE) Act)

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Gabriel Moreno

Maryland's UNITE Act establishes nondiscrimination standards in family court custody decisions and evidence treatment, affecting how judges evaluate parental fitness and child welfare cases.

Hearing 2/26 at 1:00 p.m.
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Bill Summary · HB 923

Legislative bill overview

HB 923, the Uniform Nondiscrimination in Treatment and Evidence (UNITE) Act, modifies Maryland's family law procedures in equity courts regarding child custody and care determinations. The bill appears designed to establish nondiscrimination standards in how evidence is treated and how custody decisions are made, though specific statutory language would clarify exact provisions.

Why is this important

Family law cases directly affect millions of Marylanders, particularly children and parents navigating custody arrangements. Courts' evidentiary standards and decision-making frameworks in these cases shape outcomes for vulnerable populations and influence how different groups are treated within the judicial system.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of "nondiscrimination" - The bill's definition of prohibited discrimination categories (race, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, etc.) and whether it applies equally to all parties or targets specific groups
  • Evidentiary standards - How the bill modifies what evidence courts can consider in custody determinations, potentially affecting parental fitness assessments or lifestyle considerations
  • Implementation conflicts - Whether new nondiscrimination requirements conflict with existing "best interests of the child" standards or create ambiguity in judicial decision-making

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

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