WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 1317

State Government - Data-Sharing Agreements and Personal Identifying Information - Prohibition and Reporting (Maryland Data Privacy and Federal Shield Act)

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Julian Ivey

Maryland restricts state agencies from sharing personal data with federal entities or others without legislative approval and creates reporting requirements and federal data demand resistance protocols.

Hearing 3/03 at 1:00 p.m.
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1317

Legislative bill overview

HB 1317 prohibits Maryland state government agencies from entering into data-sharing agreements that involve personal identifying information without explicit authorization, and requires agencies to report such agreements to the legislature. The bill creates a "Federal Shield Act" framework requiring state agencies to resist federal data requests and demands unless legally compelled through proper judicial process.

Why is this important

This legislation addresses growing concerns about privacy and government data practices in an era of expanded federal data collection and inter-agency information sharing. It reflects tension between state autonomy and federal authority, particularly regarding what personal data state agencies can voluntarily share with federal entities or private partners.

Potential points of contention

  • Federal compliance conflicts: State restrictions on data-sharing could conflict with federal law requirements, grant conditions, or interstate compacts that mandate information sharing (child support, immigration enforcement, etc.)
  • Government operational efficiency: Limiting data-sharing agreements may impede legitimate law enforcement, tax administration, social services coordination, and emergency response that currently rely on inter-agency data access
  • "Federal Shield" enforceability: The bill's ability to legally shield Maryland from federal data demands is questionable, as federal subpoenas and court orders typically supersede state restrictions
  • Definition ambiguity: "Personal identifying information" and "data-sharing agreements" may be defined too broadly or narrowly, creating implementation uncertainty across agencies

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

Sign in to ask a question.