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SB 271

Maryland Tort Claims Act - Employees of an Office of a Sheriff

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Michael Jackson

Maryland law expanded sovereign immunity to sheriff's office employees, protecting them from personal civil liability lawsuits for official actions, shifting legal claims to county governments instead.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 133
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Bill Summary · SB 271

Legislative bill overview

SB 271 modifies Maryland's Tort Claims Act to extend sovereign immunity protections to employees working in Sheriffs' Offices, shielding them from personal liability lawsuits for actions taken in their official capacity. The bill essentially grants these county/local law enforcement employees the same legal protections previously available only to state employees under the tort claims framework.

Why is this important

This change affects how sheriff's office employees can be held accountable in civil court. It limits the ability of citizens to sue individual deputies or staff members directly for negligence or misconduct, potentially reducing litigation costs for counties but also restricting a traditional avenue for victims to seek damages and accountability outside criminal proceedings.

Potential points of contention

  • Accountability concerns: Expanding immunity may reduce incentives for proper conduct and limit remedies for individuals harmed by sheriff's office employees, as lawsuits would need to target the county government rather than individuals
  • Inconsistent protections: Creates different liability standards between state and local law enforcement, and raises questions about why sheriffs' offices deserve protections that other municipal employees don't receive
  • Access to justice: May disproportionately affect victims of misconduct who now face higher barriers to recovery, as county governments have different insurance and financial arrangements than individuals

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

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