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Bill

SB 326

Public Safety - Law Enforcement Agencies - Peer Support Programs

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Nick Charles and 11 co-sponsors

Maryland law now requires police agencies to establish peer support programs with trained officer counselors to address mental health and suicide prevention among law enforcement personnel.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 511
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Bill Summary · SB 326

Legislative bill overview

SB 326 establishes requirements for law enforcement agencies in Maryland to implement peer support programs for officers. The bill mandates that agencies create structured mental health support systems staffed by trained peer counselors who have experienced similar traumatic situations. This legislation aims to address the psychological toll of police work and reduce officer suicide and mental health crises.

Why is this important

Law enforcement officers face exceptionally high rates of PTSD, depression, and suicide compared to the general population. Peer support programs have demonstrated effectiveness in other states by providing culturally-competent mental health resources that officers may be more willing to access than traditional counseling. This bill directly addresses a critical public safety issue—officer wellness—that impacts both individual officers and community policing effectiveness.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and Implementation Burden: Smaller police departments may struggle with the expense of hiring and training dedicated peer support staff, potentially creating disparities between well-funded and under-resourced agencies
  • Confidentiality and Trust Concerns: Officers may fear peer counselor information could be used against them in disciplinary proceedings, creating reluctance to participate despite protections
  • Mandate Scope: The bill's specificity regarding program standards could limit agencies' flexibility to tailor approaches to their unique departmental cultures and demographics

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

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