Maryland 2024 Regular Session

Maryland Senate Bill SB468

Introduced
1/22/24  
Refer
1/22/24  
Report Pass
3/13/24  
Engrossed
3/15/24  
Refer
3/16/24  
Report Pass
4/6/24  
Enrolled
4/8/24  
Chaptered
5/16/24  

Caption

Criminal Law - Private Home Detention Monitoring - Notification

Impact

The enactment of SB468 is poised to refine the regulatory framework governing home detention monitoring in Maryland. By establishing clear timelines for notifications of violations, the bill will amend existing criminal laws and further clarify the roles of the private home detention agencies. Moreover, it allows the Secretary of Public Safety and Correctional Services to impose civil penalties on agencies that fail to comply with these notification requirements, thus reinforcing a system of accountability for monitoring agencies.

Summary

Senate Bill 468, titled 'Criminal Law - Private Home Detention Monitoring - Notification', is focused on enhancing the protocols related to private home detention monitoring. The bill mandates that agencies responsible for home detention monitoring must notify the courts and the Division of Parole and Probation immediately if an individual under their supervision goes missing or violates monitoring conditions. This proactive notification requirement is intended to improve accountability and ensure prompt responses from law enforcement of any potential violations, thereby enhancing public safety.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SB468 appears to be supportive from many lawmakers who see it as a necessary step to bolster safety measures regarding individuals on home detention. Proponents argue that timely notifications are critical in preventing further crimes and ensuring swift action from law enforcement. However, there could be concerns over the administrative burden this places on monitoring agencies and whether it adequately addresses the nuances of different cases, with potential dissent among those who feel it could infringe on the privacy of monitored individuals.

Contention

Despite its anticipated benefits, the bill does raise points of contention related to the operational aspects it imposes on private monitoring agencies. Critics may argue that the varying capacities of these agencies could lead to inconsistent enforcement and challenges in preventing violations within specified timelines. Discussion may also revolve around the balance between public safety interests and the rights of individuals under monitoring, highlighting the ongoing debate on how best to supervise and support offenders in the community.

Companion Bills

MD HB614

Crossfiled Criminal Law – Private Home Detention Monitoring – Notification

Previously Filed As

MD HB859

Criminal Law - Private Home Detention Monitoring - Notification

MD SB853

Criminal Law - Private Home Detention Monitoring - Notification

MD SB684

Criminal Procedure - Victims' Rights - Notification of Release From Confinement (Jaycee Webster Victims' Rights Act)

MD HB367

Vehicle Laws - Stop Sign Monitoring Systems - Authorization

MD HB736

Criminal Procedure - Pretrial Release - Crime of Violence (No Bail for Repeat Violent Offenders Act of 2023)

MD HB353

Traffic Control Device Monitoring Systems - Authorization

MD SB229

Vehicle Laws - Noise Abatement Monitoring Systems - Authorization, Use, and Penalties

MD HB1130

Vehicle Laws - Noise Abatement Monitoring Systems - Authorization, Use, and Penalties

MD HB1027

Vehicle Laws - Bus Lane Monitoring Systems - Statewide Expansion

MD SB1

Criminal Law - Wearing, Carrying, or Transporting Firearms - Restrictions (Gun Safety Act of 2023)

Similar Bills

MD HB614

Criminal Law – Private Home Detention Monitoring – Notification

MD HB474

Criminal Procedure - Probation, Parole, and Pretrial Release

MD HB222

Correctional Services - Division of Pretrial Detention and Services - Facilities

MD SB251

Correctional Services - Division of Pretrial Detention and Services - Facilities

MD HB980

Criminal Procedure - Probation, Parole, and Pretrial Release Violations - Cannabis Use

MD HB859

Criminal Law - Private Home Detention Monitoring - Notification

MD HB411

Criminal Procedure - Violation of Pretrial or Posttrial Condition by Incarcerated Person - Victim Contact

MD SB487

Criminal Procedure - Violation of Pretrial or Posttrial Condition by Incarcerated Person - Victim Contact