Public Safety - Missing Person Reports - Collection and Publication
Impact
HB308 will require local law enforcement agencies to report detailed information regarding missing persons within their jurisdictions to the Department of State Police. This data must be disaggregated by age, race, and reporting county, ensuring that various demographics are represented in the published statistics. The annual summaries provided by the Department of State Police will not only include the number of unresolved cases but also the number of resolved cases from the previous month, thereby offering a clearer picture of ongoing efforts to handle missing persons situations effectively.
Summary
House Bill 308 aims to enhance public safety by introducing a comprehensive approach to the collection and publication of data regarding missing person reports in Maryland. The bill mandates that the Department of State Police compile detailed information on these reports, which will be accessible to the public via its website. The intent behind this legislation is to improve awareness and encourage community engagement surrounding the issues of missing persons.
Contention
While the bill is primarily intended to amplify transparency in public safety, it may generate discussions regarding privacy concerns and the management of sensitive data. Some lawmakers and advocacy groups may fear that publicizing certain details around missing persons could potentially hinder investigations or invade the privacy of families involved. Furthermore, local law enforcement agencies may express concerns over the resource implications of the mandated reporting, as they may need to allocate additional manpower and funds to comply with the new requirements.