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HB 155

Public Safety - Law Enforcement Officers - Prohibition on Face Coverings

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Dylan Behler and 28 co-sponsors

Maryland HB 155 prohibits law enforcement officers from wearing face coverings during duty to enhance officer identification and public accountability, with unspecified exceptions.

Hearing 2/24 at 1:00 p.m.
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 155

Legislative bill overview

HB 155 would prohibit law enforcement officers in Maryland from wearing face coverings while performing their duties, with limited exceptions. The bill aims to ensure facial visibility and identification of police officers during public interactions and enforcement activities.

Why is this important

Officer identification and accountability are central to police transparency and public trust. However, this restriction intersects with officer safety concerns, medical needs, and operational contexts where coverings may be necessary or beneficial for undercover work or disease prevention.

Potential points of contention

  • Officer safety vs. identification: Police argue face coverings protect them from identification by suspects or dangerous individuals; transparency advocates counter that accountability requires visible identification
  • Medical and operational exceptions: The bill's scope of permitted exceptions (if any) will determine whether officers can wear coverings for health reasons, undercover operations, or tactical situations
  • Enforcement mechanism and consequences: Unclear what penalties officers or departments face for violations, and whether this creates additional liability for the state

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

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