<section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="6-101" title_number="6" title_name="Attorney General" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="Definitions; General Provisions"> <text>In this title, “Office” means the Office of the Attorney General.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="6-102" title_number="6" title_name="Attorney General" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="Definitions; General Provisions"> <text>Except as otherwise provided by law, this title does not apply to:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the Public Service Commission;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>a board of supervisors of elections of a county;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the Baltimore City Board of School Commissioners or a county board of education; or</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>any other county officer or unit.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="6-103" title_number="6" title_name="Attorney General" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="Definitions; General Provisions"> <level label="a"> <text>There is an Attorney General of the State, as provided in Article V, § 1 of the Maryland Constitution.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Attorney General’s annual salary shall be:</text> <level label="1"> <text>$175,000 for the first year of the term beginning January 2027;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>$180,000 starting on the first anniversary of the beginning of the term;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>$180,000 starting on the second anniversary of the beginning of the term; and</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>$185,000 starting on the third anniversary of the beginning of the term and thereafter.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Attorney General is also entitled to reimbursement for travel and other expenses that are connected with the duties of the Office.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="6-104" title_number="6" title_name="Attorney General" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="Definitions; General Provisions"> <level label="a"> <text>There is an Office of the Attorney General.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Attorney General may have offices, which the State shall maintain and equip.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="6-105" title_number="6" title_name="Attorney General" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="Definitions; General Provisions"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>The Attorney General may employ a staff in accordance with the State budget.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Attorneys, positions that provide direct support to the Attorney General, and positions that provide direct support to the positions specified in paragraph (3) of this subsection, appointed under this subsection:</text> <level label="i"> <text>notwithstanding any other law, and except as provided in paragraph (3) of this subsection, are deemed special appointments within the meaning of § 6–405(a) of the State Personnel and Pensions Article;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>may not be determined to be special appointments under § 6–405(b) of the State Personnel and Pensions Article; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>serve at the pleasure of the Attorney General.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The following positions are special appointments under § 6–405(b) of the State Personnel and Pensions Article:</text> <level label="i"> <text>Deputy Attorney General;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>special assistant to the Attorney General;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>executive counsel to the Attorney General;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>director or chief of a division or unit in the Office; and</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>principal counsel to a State unit.</text> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <level label="i"> <text>Staff appointed under this subsection is entitled to compensation as provided in the State budget.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>Unless the State budget provides otherwise, the salary of a Deputy Attorney General, assistant Attorney General, or special attorney appointed under this subsection is payable from the funds of the Office.</text> </level> </level> <level label="5"> <text>Staff is entitled to reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations, as provided in the State budget.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>In addition to any other staff appointed under this section, the Attorney General, with the written approval of the Governor, may employ any assistant counsel that the Attorney General considers necessary to carry out any duty of the Office in an extraordinary or unforeseen case or in special county work.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Attorney General shall submit to the Governor a written request that:</text> <level label="i"> <text>states the necessity of and each reason for the special employment; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>states the proposed compensation and its source or certifies that the Attorney General cannot ascertain in advance the proper compensation.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>Compensation that cannot be ascertained in advance may be agreed on or adjusted later.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>In addition to any other staff appointed under this section, the Attorney General may employ special counsel to defend a State officer or State employee under Title 12, Subtitle 3 of this article if the Attorney General determines that representation by the Attorney General or an assistant is impracticable or uneconomical.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The special counsel is entitled to compensation, as set by the Attorney General and approved by the Board of Public Works, under Title 12, Subtitle 5 of this article.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>Each Deputy Attorney General, assistant Attorney General, or special attorney appointed under subsection (a) of this section shall be a practicing lawyer of the State in good standing.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <level label="1"> <text>The Attorney General may assign any duty that the law imposes on the Attorney General to a Deputy Attorney General, assistant Attorney General, or special attorney appointed under subsection (a) of this section or, to the extent permitted by law, a law clerk.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Deputy Attorney General, assistant Attorney General, special attorney, or law clerk shall perform the assigned duty, subject to the control of the Attorney General.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <text>In addition to any other staff appointed under this section, the Attorney General may employ any assistant counsel that the Attorney General considers necessary to carry out any duty of the Office if the employment of the assistant counsel:</text> <level label="1"> <text>is on a pro bono basis;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>will not result in more than minimal cost to the State; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>will not result in the payment to the assistant counsel of any portion of the State’s recovery in any case or matter.</text> </level> </level> <level label="g"> <level label="1"> <text>The Attorney General, in consultation with the Secretary of Budget and Management, may set the pay scale of a position in the Office of the Attorney General that:</text> <level label="i"> <text>is unique to the Office of the Attorney General; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>requires specific skills or experience to perform the duties of the position.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Secretary of Budget and Management, in consultation with the Attorney General, shall determine the positions for which the Attorney General may set compensation under paragraph (1) of this subsection.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="6-106" title_number="6" title_name="Attorney General" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="Definitions; General Provisions"> <level label="a"> <text>Except as otherwise provided in this section, the Attorney General has general charge of the legal business of the State.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Unless a law expressly provides for a general counsel as the legal adviser and representative of the officer or unit, the Attorney General is the legal adviser of and shall represent and otherwise perform all of the legal work for each officer and unit of the State government.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>Notwithstanding any other section of law, an officer or unit of the State government may not employ or be represented by a legal adviser or counsel other than the Attorney General or a designee of the Attorney General, except that:</text> <level label="1"> <level label="i"> <text>an officer or unit of the State government may employ or be represented by a legal adviser or counsel other than the Attorney General or the Attorney General’s designee with prior approval of the Attorney General; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the approval may be provided under § 6–105(b) or (c) of this subtitle, § 13–107 of the State Finance and Procurement Article, or other authority specified by the Attorney General;</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>a State institution may employ counsel to represent the institution in a habeas corpus proceeding;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>a unit of the State government may employ counsel if:</text> <level label="i"> <text>an investigation by an investigating committee of the General Assembly affects the unit;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the Attorney General represents both the investigating committee and the unit;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>the Attorney General gives the Board of Public Works and the unit written notice that representation by the Attorney General involves or reasonably may involve a conflict of interest; and</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>the Board of Public Works approves the employment of counsel by the unit;</text> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <text>the Office of the Public Defender may employ or be represented by a legal adviser or counsel other than the Attorney General or the Attorney General’s designee; and</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>unless otherwise agreed to by the Attorney General and the County Attorney for Montgomery County, the County Attorney for Montgomery County may represent the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services in a contested case under Title 10, Subtitle 2 of this article.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="6-106.1" title_number="6" title_name="Attorney General" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="Definitions; General Provisions"> <level label="a"> <text>The General Assembly finds that:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the federal government’s action or failure to take action may pose a threat to the health and welfare of the residents of the State; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the State should investigate and obtain relief from any arbitrary, unlawful, or unconstitutional federal action or inaction and prevent such action or inaction from harming the residents of the State.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>In addition to any other powers and duties and subject to the requirements of this subsection, the Attorney General may investigate, commence, and prosecute or defend any civil or criminal suit or action that is based on the federal government’s action or inaction that threatens the public interest and welfare of the residents of the State with respect to:</text> <level label="i"> <text>protecting the health of the residents of the State and ensuring the availability of affordable health care;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>safeguarding public safety and security;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>protecting civil liberties;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>preserving and enhancing the economic security of workers and retirees;</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>protecting financial security of the residents of the State, including their pensions, savings, and investments, and ensuring fairness in mortgages, student loans, and the marketplace;</text> </level> <level label="vi"> <text>protecting the residents of the State against fraud and other deceptive and predatory practices;</text> </level> <level label="vii"> <text>protecting the natural resources and environment of the State;</text> </level> <level label="viii"> <text>protecting the residents of the State against illegal and unconstitutional federal immigration and travel restrictions;</text> </level> <level label="ix"> <text>protecting residents of the State who are employees of the federal government who are not being paid because of a full or partial federal government shutdown due to a lapse in appropriations;</text> </level> <level label="x"> <text>protecting residents of the State who were employees of the federal government, and on or after January 1, 2025:</text> <level label="1"> <text>were terminated from employment by the federal government due to the closure, relocation, or mass layoff of a unit of the federal government, or other similar circumstances beyond the employees’ control; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>separated from employment by the federal government as a result of a voluntary separation incentive payment;</text> </level> </level> <level label="xi"> <text>protecting residents of the State who are inappropriately denied federal benefits that they have earned, including Social Security benefits, Medicare, and Veterans Affairs benefits;</text> </level> <level label="xii"> <text>protecting residents of the State who are inappropriately denied federal entitlements, including Medicaid; or</text> </level> <level label="xiii"> <text>otherwise protecting, as parens patriae, the State’s interest in the general health and well–being of its residents.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Except as provided in paragraph (4) of this subsection, before commencing a suit or an action under paragraph (1) of this subsection, the Attorney General shall provide to the Governor:</text> <level label="i"> <text>written notice of the intended suit or action; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>an opportunity to review and comment on the intended suit or action.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>If the Governor objects to the intended suit or action for which notice was provided under this subsection:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the Governor shall provide in writing to the Attorney General the reasons for the objection within 10 days after receiving the notice; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>except as provided in paragraph (4) of this subsection, the Attorney General shall consider the Governor’s objection before commencing the suit or action.</text> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <text>If the Attorney General determines that emergency circumstances require the immediate commencement of a suit or an action under paragraph (1) of this subsection, the Attorney General shall provide to the Governor notice of the suit or action as soon as reasonably practicable.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Governor’s proposed budget for fiscal year 2019, and for each fiscal year thereafter, shall appropriate at least $2,500,000 to the Attorney General to be used only for:</text> <level label="1"> <text>carrying out this section; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>employing attorneys in the Office of the Attorney General.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="6-106.2" title_number="6" title_name="Attorney General" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="Definitions; General Provisions"> <level label="a"> <text>This section applies to an action brought or asserted by the State arising from or related to alleged or threatened injuries to the environment, infrastructure, or the natural resources of the State associated with the allision between the vessel known as the Dali and the Francis Scott Key Bridge on March 26, 2024.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>“Proportionate share of liability” means the percentage of comparative responsibility assigned by a judge or jury to a settling party in accordance with this section.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>“Responsible person” means a person alleged to be liable in an action governed by this section.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>In an action governed by this section, the judge or jury shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>make a determination of the total liability, including damages, costs, and any other available relief;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>assign comparative responsibility to each party joined in the action, including all defendants, third–party defendants, intervenors, and any other named party, based on the party’s relative degree of fault or responsibility for the total liability; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>if equity requires, determine the liability of a group of related persons on a collective basis.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>If the State has not obtained complete relief from a responsible person who has resolved the person’s liability to the State in a settlement of an action governed by this section, the State may:</text> <level label="1"> <text>continue to pursue an action against any other responsible person who has not resolved the person’s liability to the State; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>bring a new action against any other responsible person who has not resolved the person’s liability to the State.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <text>Notwithstanding any other provision of State law:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the Maryland Uniform Contribution Among Joint Tort–Feasors Act under Title 3, Subtitle 14 of the Courts Article does not apply to an action governed by this section;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>if a responsible person resolves the person’s liability to the State in a settlement of an action governed by this section, the person may not be liable for claims for noncontractual contribution or indemnity regarding any action or claim resolved in the settlement; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>a settlement of an action governed by this section that resolves the liability of a responsible person:</text> <level label="i"> <text>does not release from liability any other responsible person except as specifically provided in the terms of the settlement; but</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>reduces the potential liability of all other responsible persons liable in whole or in part by the larger of:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the settling person’s proportionate share of liability; or</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the amount the settling person pays to settle the action.</text> </level> </level> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <text>This section may not be construed to:</text> <level label="1"> <text>impair any express contractual rights;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>create new types of actions or claims;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>alter the burden of proof, causation standard, or elements of an action or claim governed by this section; or</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>grant authority to the State or the Attorney General to bring actions or claims not otherwise authorized by law.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="6-107" title_number="6" title_name="Attorney General" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="Definitions; General Provisions"> <level label="a"> <text>The Attorney General is the legal adviser of and shall represent and otherwise perform all of the legal work for:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the Board of Supervisors of Elections of Baltimore City;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the Board of Liquor Commissioners of Baltimore City; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the Sheriff of Baltimore City.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The Attorney General may advise or represent a political subdivision of the State or any of its officers, employees, or agents as to a matter that relates to State or federal antitrust law.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Representation under this subsection may include an appearance in an action or administrative proceeding to defend the subdivision, officer, employee, or agent.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The Attorney General may require a political subdivision to pay into the General Fund of the State reimbursement for the costs of defending the subdivision in an action or proceeding.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>This subsection does not deprive any political subdivision, officer, employee, or agent of any right to retain counsel, at the expense of the subdivision, officer, employee, or agent.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="6-108" title_number="6" title_name="Attorney General" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="Definitions; General Provisions"> <level label="a"> <text>The Attorney General or any Deputy Attorney General or assistant Attorney General whom the Attorney General designates may:</text> <level label="1"> <text>become a member of an organization of attorneys general of other states or their deputies or assistants and, as provided in the State budget, contribute to the expenses of the organization; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>use the services of the Council of State Governments and, as provided in the State budget, contribute to the cost of the services.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>On January 1 of each year, the Attorney General shall submit an annual report to the Governor and, in accordance with § 2–1257 of this article, the General Assembly.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The annual report shall:</text> <level label="i"> <text>describe the business and proceedings of the Office during the preceding calendar year; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>include any recommendations that the Attorney General considers appropriate.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Attorney General shall keep the following records until they are disposed of in accordance with § 10–616 of this article:</text> <level label="1"> <text>a copy of the pleadings in each suit, action, or other proceeding of which the Office has charge;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>a complete and current docket of those proceedings;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>a copy of each written opinion that the Office issues; and</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>an abstract of each title that the Office examines or has examined.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The Attorney General annually shall publish on the website of the Attorney General:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the opinions that the Office issued during the preceding calendar year; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the annual report for that preceding calendar year.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <level label="1"> <text>The papers of the Office shall be filed in its offices until disposed of in accordance with § 10–616 of this article.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The papers and books of the Office shall be indexed so that they are readily accessible.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="6-109" title_number="6" title_name="Attorney General" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="Definitions; General Provisions"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>“Department” means the Department of Assessments and Taxation.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>“Governing body” means the head, board, council, board of directors, or other governing body of a State agency.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>A State agency not represented by the Attorney General shall designate a citizen of this State who resides in this State, a Maryland corporation, or an officer of the State agency as its resident agent and change its resident agent by filing for record with the Department a certified copy of a resolution of its governing body that authorizes the designation or change.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>A State agency may change the address for its resident agent by filing for record with the Department a statement of the change signed by the chairman or other principal officer of its governing body.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>A resident agent whose address changes may notify the Department by filing for record with the Department a statement of the change signed by or for the resident agent.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>A resident agent may resign by filing with the Department a statement of resignation.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>There is no fee for a filing under this section.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <text>A designation, change of agent, change of address, or resignation is effective as provided in the Corporations and Associations Article for a corporate resident agent.</text> </level> <level label="f"> <level label="1"> <text>Service of process on a resident agent of a State agency constitutes effective service of process under the Maryland Rules on the State agency in an action, suit, or proceeding that is pending, filed, or instituted against the State agency.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Any notice required by law to be served by personal service on a resident agent or other agent or officer of a State agency may be served in the manner provided by the Maryland Rules relating to service of process on State agencies.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>Service under the Maryland Rules is equivalent to personal service on a resident agent or other agent or officer of a State agency.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="6-110" title_number="6" title_name="Attorney General" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="Definitions; General Provisions"> <level label="a"> <text>The Chief Deputy Attorney General shall serve as acting Attorney General if the Attorney General temporarily is unable or unavailable to carry out the duties of office.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>If the Attorney General gives the Chief Deputy Attorney General written notice of a temporary inability or unavailability, the acting Attorney General shall serve:</text> <level label="1"> <text>on and after the date that the Attorney General sets in the notice; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>until the Attorney General gives the acting Attorney General written notice that the Attorney General is able to carry out the duties of office.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>If the Attorney General has not given notice, but the members of the Board of Public Works and the presiding officers of the General Assembly, by a majority vote, make a formal, written determination of a temporary inability or unavailability of the Attorney General, the Chief Deputy Attorney General shall serve as acting Attorney General:</text> <level label="1"> <text>on and after the date of the determination; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>until the members of the Board of Public Works and the presiding officers of the General Assembly, by a majority vote, determine and give the Attorney General and the acting Attorney General written notice that the Attorney General is able to carry out the duties of office.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>On petition of any member of the Board of Public Works, a presiding officer of the General Assembly, the Attorney General, or the acting Attorney General, a circuit court has exclusive original jurisdiction to determine any issue that arises under this section and to pass any appropriate order.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Except for cases that the court considers of greater importance, a proceeding under this section, including an appeal, shall:</text> <level label="i"> <text>take precedence on the docket;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>be heard at the earliest practicable date; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>be expedited in every way.</text> </level> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="6-111" title_number="6" title_name="Attorney General" subtitle_number="1" subtitle_name="Definitions; General Provisions"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>“Collateral immigration enforcement” means federal immigration enforcement actions that affect individuals who are not the primary target of the enforcement action but are present at the location of the enforcement action.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>“Immigration enforcement” means federal immigration enforcement actions.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>“Sensitive location” means:</text> <level label="i"> <text>a public school, designated school bus stop, or school vehicle, as defined in § 11–154 of the Transportation Article;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>a public library;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>a health care facility operated by a unit of State or local government;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>a facility operated by the Comptroller;</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>a courthouse; or</text> </level> <level label="vi"> <text>any other location that:</text> <level label="1"> <text>provides State–funded services related to:</text> </level> <level label="A"> <text>physical or mental health;</text> </level> <level label="B"> <text>education;</text> </level> <level label="C"> <text>shelter care;</text> </level> <level label="D"> <text>distributing food to individuals in need; or</text> </level> <level label="E"> <text>access to justice; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>as determined by the Attorney General, requires special consideration for immigration enforcement activities.</text> </level> </level> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Attorney General shall develop and publish guidance that informs the public and relevant State agencies about:</text> <level label="1"> <text>delineating between immigration enforcement within the public portions of sensitive locations and the nonpublic or private portions of sensitive locations;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>verifying the identity of immigration enforcement agents and validating immigration enforcement documentation seeking specific individuals;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>limiting liability exposure for State, local, and private institutions and the participation of the employees of those institutions in immigration enforcement at sensitive locations;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>facilitating relationships between federal law enforcement officers and State and local officials and law enforcement officers in order to conduct immigration enforcement activities through the least dangerous and disruptive means; and</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>complying with existing legal obligations and limitations on State and local agencies while maintaining public safety and accessibility to those agencies.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>Private entities are encouraged to adopt policies consistent with the guidance developed under subsection (b) of this section if the private entities provide services related to:</text> <level label="1"> <text>physical or mental health;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>education;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>shelter care;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>distributing food to individuals in need; or</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>access to justice.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>On or before October 1, 2025, each public school, public library, and unit of the Executive Branch of State or local government that operates at a sensitive location shall implement a policy consistent with the guidance issued by the Attorney General under this section.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>On or before October 1 each year, beginning in 2026, the Attorney General shall update the guidance issued under this section, as necessary, and if the guidance is updated each public school, public library, and unit of Executive Branch of State or local government shall implement a policy consistent with the guidance issued by the Attorney General under this section.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <level label="i"> <text>On or before October 1, 2026, each courthouse shall implement a policy which may consider the guidance issued by the Attorney General under this section.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>On or before October 1 each year, each courthouse shall update the policy implemented under subparagraph (i) of this paragraph as necessary.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <text>The guidance and policies required by this section are not subject to Title 10, Subtitles 1, 2, and 3 of this article.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="6-301" title_number="6" title_name="Attorney General" subtitle_number="3" subtitle_name="People's Insurance Counsel"> <level label="a"> <text>In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>“Commissioner” means the Maryland Insurance Commissioner.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>“Division” means the People’s Insurance Counsel Division in the Office of the Attorney General.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>“Health care provider” has the meaning stated in § 3-2A-01 of the Courts Article.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <text>“Homeowner’s insurer” means an insurer that issues or delivers a policy or contract of homeowner’s insurance in the State.</text> </level> <level label="f"> <text>“Insurance consumers” means persons insured under policies or contracts of medical professional liability insurance, and homeowner’s insurance issued or delivered in the State by a medical professional liability insurer or a homeowner’s insurer.</text> </level> <level label="g"> <text>“Insurer” means a medical professional liability insurer or a homeowner’s insurer authorized to engage in the insurance business in the State under a certificate of authority issued by the Commissioner.</text> </level> <level label="h"> <text>“Medical injury” has the meaning stated in § 3-2A-01 of the Courts Article.</text> </level> <level label="i"> <text>“Medical professional liability insurer” means an insurer that issues or delivers a policy in the State that insures a health care provider against damages due to medical injury.</text> </level> <level label="j"> <text>“Premium” has the meaning stated in § 1-101 of the Insurance Article to the extent it is allocable to this State.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="6-302" title_number="6" title_name="Attorney General" subtitle_number="3" subtitle_name="People's Insurance Counsel"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>There is a People’s Insurance Counsel Division in the Office of the Attorney General.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Attorney General shall appoint the People’s Insurance Counsel with the advice and consent of the Senate.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The People’s Insurance Counsel serves at the pleasure of the Attorney General.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The People’s Insurance Counsel shall have been admitted to practice law in the State.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The People’s Insurance Counsel shall devote full time to the duties of the Office.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <text>The People’s Insurance Counsel is entitled to compensation as provided in the State budget.</text> </level> <level label="f"> <text>The People’s Insurance Counsel and employees of the Division may not hold an official relation to or have any pecuniary interest in an insurer, insurance agency, or insurance transaction, other than as a policyholder or claimant under a policy.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="6-303" title_number="6" title_name="Attorney General" subtitle_number="3" subtitle_name="People's Insurance Counsel"> <level label="a"> <text>The Office of the Attorney General shall include in its annual budget sufficient money for the administration and operation of the Division.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Division may retain as necessary for a particular matter or employ experts in the field of insurance regulation, including accountants, actuaries, and lawyers.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The People’s Insurance Counsel shall direct the Division.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="6-304" title_number="6" title_name="Attorney General" subtitle_number="3" subtitle_name="People's Insurance Counsel"> <level label="a"> <text>The Commissioner shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>collect an annual assessment from each medical professional liability insurer and homeowner’s insurer for the costs and expenses incurred by the Division in carrying out its duties under this subtitle; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>deposit the amounts collected into the People’s Insurance Counsel Fund established under § 6–305 of this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The assessment payable by a medical professional liability insurer or homeowner’s insurer is the product of the fraction obtained by dividing the gross direct premium written by the medical professional liability insurer or homeowner’s insurer in the prior calendar year by the total amount of gross direct premium written by all medical professional liability insurers or homeowner’s insurers in the prior calendar year, multiplied by the amount of the total costs and expenses under subsection (a)(1) of this section.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>The assessment collected under this section is:</text> <level label="i"> <text>in addition to any penalties or premium tax imposed under the Insurance Article; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>due and payable to the Commissioner on or before a date determined by the Commissioner each year.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <level label="i"> <text>Failure by an insurer to pay an assessment fee on or before the due date shall subject the insurer to the provisions of §§ 4-113 and 4-114 of the Insurance Article.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>In addition to the penalty imposed under subparagraph (i) of this paragraph, if an assessment fee is not paid on or before the due date, the Commissioner may impose a penalty of 5% of the amount due and interest at the rate determined under § 13-701(b)(1) of the Tax - General Article from the due date until payment is made to the Commissioner.</text> </level> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="6-305" title_number="6" title_name="Attorney General" subtitle_number="3" subtitle_name="People's Insurance Counsel"> <level label="a"> <text>In this section, “Fund” means the People’s Insurance Counsel Fund.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>There is a People’s Insurance Counsel Fund.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The purpose of the Fund is to pay all costs and expenses incurred by the Division in carrying out its duties under this subtitle.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The Fund shall consist of:</text> <level label="1"> <text>all revenue deposited into the Fund that is received through the imposition and collection of the assessment under § 6-304 of this subtitle; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>income from investments that the State Treasurer makes for the Fund.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <level label="1"> <text>Expenditures from the Fund may be made only by:</text> <level label="i"> <text>an appropriation from the Fund approved by the General Assembly in the annual State budget; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the budget amendment procedure provided for in § 7-209 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <level label="i"> <text>If, in any fiscal year, the amount of the assessment revenue collected by the Commissioner and deposited into the Fund exceeds the actual costs and expenses incurred by the Division to carry out its duties under this subtitle, the excess amount shall be carried forward within the Fund for the purpose of reducing the assessment imposed by the Commissioner for the following fiscal year.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>If, in any fiscal year, the amount of the assessment revenue collected by the Commissioner and deposited into the Fund is insufficient to cover the actual expenditures incurred by the Division to carry out its duties under this subtitle, and expenditures are made in accordance with the budget amendment procedure provided for in § 7-209 of the State Finance and Procurement Article, an additional assessment may be made.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <level label="1"> <text>The State Treasurer is the custodian of the Fund.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Fund shall be invested and reinvested in the same manner as State funds.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The State Treasurer shall deposit payments received from the Commissioner into the Fund.</text> </level> </level> <level label="g"> <level label="1"> <text>The Fund is a continuing, nonlapsing fund that is not subject to § 7-302 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>No part of the Fund may revert or be credited to:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the General Fund of the State; or</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>a special fund of the State, unless otherwise provided by law.</text> </level> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="6-306" title_number="6" title_name="Attorney General" subtitle_number="3" subtitle_name="People's Insurance Counsel"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>The Division shall evaluate each medical professional liability insurance and homeowner’s insurance matter pending before the Commissioner to determine whether the interests of insurance consumers are affected.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>If the Division determines that the interests of insurance consumers are affected, the Division may appear before the Commissioner and courts on behalf of insurance consumers in each matter or proceeding over which the Commissioner has original jurisdiction.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The Division shall review any rate increase of 10% or more filed with the Commissioner by a medical professional liability insurer or homeowner’s insurer.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>If the Division finds that the rate increase is excessive, inadequate, or unfairly discriminatory, the Division shall appear before the Commissioner on behalf of insurance consumers in any hearing on the rate filing.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>As the Division considers necessary, the Division shall conduct investigations and request the Commissioner to initiate an action or proceeding to protect the interests of insurance consumers.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="6-307" title_number="6" title_name="Attorney General" subtitle_number="3" subtitle_name="People's Insurance Counsel"> <level label="a"> <text>In appearances before the Commissioner and courts on behalf of insurance consumers, the Division has the rights of counsel for a party to the proceeding, including the right to:</text> <level label="1"> <text>summon witnesses, present evidence, and present argument;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>conduct cross-examination and submit rebuttal evidence; and</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>take depositions in or outside of the State:</text> <level label="i"> <text>in proceedings before the Commissioner, subject to regulation by the Commissioner to prevent undue delay; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>in proceedings in court, in accordance with the procedure provided by law or rule of court.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Division may appear before any federal or State tribunal or agency, in a judicial or administrative action, to protect the interests of insurance consumers.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>Except as otherwise provided in the Insurance Article and any applicable freedom of information act, the Division shall have full access to the Commissioner’s records, including rate filings and supplementary rate information filed with the Commissioner by a medical professional liability insurer or homeowner’s insurer under Title 11 of the Insurance Article, and shall have the benefit of all other facilities or information of the Commissioner.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Division is entitled to the assistance of the Commissioner’s staff if:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the staff determines that the assistance is consistent with the staff’s responsibilities; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>the staff and the Division agree that the assistance, in a particular matter, is consistent with their respective interests.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>The Division may recommend to the General Assembly legislation on any matter that the Division considers would promote the interests of insurance consumers.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="6-308" title_number="6" title_name="Attorney General" subtitle_number="3" subtitle_name="People's Insurance Counsel"> <text>On or before January 1 of each year, the Division shall report to the Governor and, subject to § 2-1257 of this article, to the General Assembly on the activities of the Division during the prior fiscal year.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="6-501" title_number="6" title_name="Attorney General" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="Special Education Ombudsman"> <text>In this subtitle, “Ombudsman” means the Special Education Ombudsman.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="6-502" title_number="6" title_name="Attorney General" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="Special Education Ombudsman"> <level label="a"> <text>There is a Special Education Ombudsman in the Office of the Attorney General.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The purpose of the Ombudsman is to serve as a resource to provide information and support to parents, students, and educators regarding special education rights and services.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="6-503" title_number="6" title_name="Attorney General" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="Special Education Ombudsman"> <level label="a"> <text>The Attorney General shall appoint the Ombudsman.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>Salaries of the Ombudsman and staff under the Ombudsman and expenses related to the operation of the toll–free telephone number established under § 6–505 of this subtitle, rent, equipment, supplies, and general operations shall be as provided in the State budget.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>In cooperation with the Secretary of Budget and Management, the Attorney General shall set minimum salary, qualifications, and experience standards for the Ombudsman and any staff under the Ombudsman.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="6-504" title_number="6" title_name="Attorney General" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="Special Education Ombudsman"> <level label="a"> <text>The Ombudsman shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>serve as a source of knowledge and information on the State and federal laws, rules, and regulations governing the education of students with disabilities for parents, students, educators, and interested members of the public;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>provide impartial information to the parents of students with disabilities on how to navigate the process of obtaining special education evaluations and services;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>provide impartial information to parents, public schools, and educators on the procedures for resolving disagreements and disputes regarding the provision of special education or disciplinary action taken against students with disabilities;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>explain to parents of children with disabilities the rights of parents and students and how the parents may avail themselves of those rights;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>work neutrally and objectively with all persons to ensure that the special education system functions as intended;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>identify any patterns of complaints made by parents of students with disabilities and inform the State Department of Education about any such pattern; and</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>serve as a general resource for disability–related information and make referrals to available State and federal services and programs for individuals with disabilities.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>In performing the duties assigned under this section, the Ombudsman shall treat all communications as confidential and may reveal the details of any communication only if:</text> <level label="1"> <text>necessary to achieve the Ombudsman’s duties; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>done in accordance with applicable State and federal law.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="6-505" title_number="6" title_name="Attorney General" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="Special Education Ombudsman"> <text>The Ombudsman shall arrange for a toll–free telephone number, available in English as well as other appropriate languages, to assist an individual seeking information or advice about special education.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="6-506" title_number="6" title_name="Attorney General" subtitle_number="5" subtitle_name="Special Education Ombudsman"> <text>On or before July 1, 2022, and each July 1 thereafter, the Ombudsman shall, consistent with federal and State privacy laws and in accordance with § 2–1257 of this article, submit a report to the Senate Education, Health, and Environmental Affairs Committee and the House Committee on Ways and Means that includes:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the number and type of calls received on the toll–free telephone number during the previous year;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>any patterns of complaints filed by parents identified under § 6–504(a)(7) of this subtitle;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>a summary of the services provided by the Ombudsman during the previous year; and</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>any recommendations the Ombudsman determines are appropriate and necessary concerning the State’s implementation of special education services and procedures.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="6-601" title_number="6" title_name="Attorney General" subtitle_number="6" subtitle_name="Independent Investigations Division"> <level label="a"> <text>In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>“Division” means the Independent Investigations Division in the Office of the Attorney General.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>“Police officer” has the meaning stated in § 3–201 of the Public Safety Article.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="6-602" title_number="6" title_name="Attorney General" subtitle_number="6" subtitle_name="Independent Investigations Division"> <level label="a"> <text>There is an Independent Investigations Division within the Office of the Attorney General.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The Division is the primary investigative unit for police–involved incidents that result in the death of individuals or injuries likely to result in death.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Office of the Attorney General shall determine whether an incident is police–involved and whether an injury is likely to result in death.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>The Division shall investigate all police–involved incidents that result in the death of an individual or injuries that are likely to result in the death of an individual.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <level label="i"> <text>Subject to subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph, a State’s Attorney may refer for investigation by the Division a police–involved incident resulting in serious bodily injury to an individual that is not otherwise within the jurisdiction of the Division under paragraph (1) of this subsection.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>The Division may, in its discretion, decline to investigate an incident referred by a State’s Attorney under subparagraph (i) of this paragraph.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The Division may investigate any other crime related to police misconduct that is discovered during an investigation under paragraph (1) or (2) of this subsection.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>In conducting an investigation under subsection (c) of this section, the Division may act with the full powers, rights, privileges, and duties of a State’s Attorney, including the use of a grand jury in any county.</text> </level> <level label="e"> <text>To investigate under this section alleged criminal offenses committed by police officers, the Division may:</text> <level label="1"> <text>detail one or more police officers employed by the Department of State Police; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>employ other civilian personnel as needed.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <text>On or before January 31 each year, the Division shall submit a report to the Governor and, in accordance with § 2–1257 of the State Government Article, the General Assembly on the activities of the Division in the prior calendar year, including:</text> <level label="1"> <text>the number of investigations that were conducted by the Division; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>the number of prosecutions that were initiated as a result of an investigation by or a referral to the Division.</text> </level> </level> <level label="g"> <level label="1"> <text>The Governor annually shall include funding in the State budget sufficient to provide for the full and proper operation of the Division.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Funds provided in accordance with this subsection shall supplement and may not supplant any other funding provided to the Division.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="6-603" title_number="6" title_name="Attorney General" subtitle_number="6" subtitle_name="Independent Investigations Division"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>For the limited purpose of furthering an ongoing criminal investigation under this subtitle, the Attorney General or a Deputy Attorney General or an assistant Attorney General designated in writing by the Attorney General may issue in any court in the State a subpoena to a person to produce telephone, business, government, or corporate records or documents.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>A subpoena issued under this subsection may be served in the same manner as a subpoena issued by a circuit court.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>A person may have an attorney present during any contact made under subsection (a) of this section with the Attorney General or the Attorney General’s designee.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Attorney General or the Attorney General’s designee shall advise a person of the right to counsel when the subpoena is served.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <level label="i"> <text>If a person fails to obey a lawfully served subpoena under subsection (a) of this section, the Attorney General or the Attorney General’s designee may report the failure to obey the subpoena to the circuit court with jurisdiction over the matter.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>The Attorney General or the Attorney General’s designee shall provide a copy of the subpoena and proof of service to the circuit court.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>After conducting a hearing at which the person that allegedly failed to comply with a subpoena issued under subsection (a) of this section has had an opportunity to be heard and be represented by counsel, the court may grant appropriate relief.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>This section does not allow the contravention, denial, or abrogation of a privilege or right recognized by law.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="6-604" title_number="6" title_name="Attorney General" subtitle_number="6" subtitle_name="Independent Investigations Division"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, if the Attorney General determines that an investigation conducted under § 6–602 of this subtitle provides sufficient grounds for the prosecution of a criminal offense discovered in the course of the investigation, the Attorney General shall have exclusive authority to prosecute the offense.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Attorney General, in the Attorney General’s discretion, may prosecute a police–involved incident not otherwise within the investigative jurisdiction of the Division under § 6–602(c) of this subtitle if the incident is referred by a State’s Attorney to the Attorney General for prosecution.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <text>A State’s Attorney may prosecute a criminal offense described in subsection (a)(1) of this section only if the Attorney General requests that the State’s Attorney prosecute the offense.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="6-701" title_number="6" title_name="Attorney General" subtitle_number="7" subtitle_name="Environmental and Natural Resources Crimes Unit"> <level label="a"> <text>In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>“Chief Counsel” means the Chief Counsel of Environmental and Natural Resources Crimes.</text> </level> <level label="c"> <text>“Unit” means the Environmental and Natural Resources Crimes Unit of the Office of the Attorney General.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="6-702" title_number="6" title_name="Attorney General" subtitle_number="7" subtitle_name="Environmental and Natural Resources Crimes Unit"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>There is an Environmental and Natural Resources Crimes Unit of the Office of the Attorney General.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The function of the Unit is to:</text> <level label="i"> <text>investigate and prosecute cases against persons that violate State criminal environmental and natural resources laws; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>investigate and prosecute any other criminal offense discovered in the course of an investigation under this subtitle.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <text>In conducting an investigation and prosecuting cases under this subtitle, the Unit may act with the full powers, rights, privileges, and duties of a State’s Attorney, including the use of a grand jury in any county.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>The Unit shall include:</text> <level label="i"> <text>a full–time Chief Counsel of Environmental and Natural Resources Crimes; and</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>staff, including assistant attorneys general, investigators, and administrators, as provided in the State budget.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Salaries of the Chief Counsel and staff, and expenses for rent, travel, equipment, supplies, and general operating expenses necessary for the work of the Unit shall be as provided in the State budget.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>In cooperation with the Secretary of Budget and Management, the Attorney General shall set minimum salaries, qualifications, and standards of training and experience for positions within the Unit.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Unit shall investigate and prosecute the State’s criminal environmental and natural resource laws.</text> </level> <level label="d"> <text>On or before October 1 each year, the Attorney General shall report to the Governor, and, in accordance with § 2–1257 of this article, the General Assembly on:</text> <level label="1"> <text>all the activities of the Unit during the previous fiscal year; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>any actions taken by the Department of the Environment or the Department of Natural Resources in response to findings and recommendations of the Unit.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="6-703" title_number="6" title_name="Attorney General" subtitle_number="7" subtitle_name="Environmental and Natural Resources Crimes Unit"> <level label="a"> <level label="1"> <text>For the limited purpose of furthering an ongoing criminal investigation under this subtitle, the Attorney General or a Deputy Attorney General or an assistant attorney general designated in writing by the Attorney General may issue in any court in the State a subpoena to a person to produce telephone, business, government, or corporate records or documents.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>A subpoena issued under this subsection may be served in the same manner as a subpoena issued by a circuit court.</text> </level> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>A person may have an attorney present during any contact made under subsection (a) of this section with the Attorney General or an agent of the Attorney General.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Attorney General shall advise a person of the right to counsel when the subpoena is served.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <level label="i"> <text>If a person fails to obey a lawfully served subpoena under subsection (a) of this section, the Attorney General may report the failure to obey the subpoena to the circuit court with jurisdiction over the matter.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>The Attorney General shall provide a copy of the subpoena and proof of service to the circuit court.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>After conducting a hearing at which the person that allegedly failed to comply with a subpoena issued under subsection (a) of this section has had an opportunity to be heard and be represented by counsel, the court may grant appropriate relief.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <text>This section does not allow the contravention, denial, or abrogation of a privilege or right recognized by law.</text> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="6-801" title_number="6" title_name="Attorney General" subtitle_number="8" subtitle_name="Commission on Hate Crime Response and Prevention"> <text>In this subtitle, “Commission” means the Commission on Hate Crime Response and Prevention.</text> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="6-802" title_number="6" title_name="Attorney General" subtitle_number="8" subtitle_name="Commission on Hate Crime Response and Prevention"> <level label="a"> <text>There is a Commission on Hate Crime Response and Prevention in the Office of the Attorney General.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The Commission consists of the following members, appointed by the Attorney General:</text> <level label="1"> <text>15 individuals who represent or advocate on behalf of individuals who are members of a protected class under the State hate crime laws as set forth in Title 10, Subtitle 3 of the Criminal Law Article appointed by the Attorney General with the advice and consent of the Senate;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>one representative of the Maryland Association of Human Relations/Human Rights Agencies;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>one representative of the Maryland Chiefs of Police Association;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>one representative of the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>one representative of the Maryland Coordination and Analysis Center;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>one representative of the Maryland Center for School Safety;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>one representative of the Maryland Sheriffs’ Association;</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>one representative of the Maryland State’s Attorneys’ Association;</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>one representative of the Office of the Public Defender; and</text> </level> <level label="10"> <text>two members of the general public.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <text>The term of an appointed member of the Commission is 4 years.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The terms of the appointed members are staggered as required by the terms provided for members of the Commission on June 1, 2024.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>At the end of a term, an appointed member continues to serve until a successor is appointed and qualifies.</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>A member who is appointed after a term has begun serves only for the rest of the term and until a successor is appointed and qualifies.</text> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>The Attorney General, or the Attorney General’s designee, is the chair of the Commission.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Office of the Attorney General shall provide staff for the Commission.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <text>In fiscal year 2025 and in each fiscal year thereafter, the Governor shall include funds in the State budget to implement this section, including funds to:</text> <level label="1"> <text>employ a full–time assistant Attorney General to staff the Commission; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>operate and maintain the office.</text> </level> </level> <level label="f"> <level label="1"> <text>A majority of members of the Commission shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Commission may adopt rules governing the administration and proceedings of the Commission.</text> </level> </level> <level label="g"> <text>A member of the Commission:</text> <level label="1"> <text>may not receive compensation as a member of the Commission; but</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>is entitled to reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations, as provided in the State budget.</text> </level> </level> <level label="h"> <text>The Commission shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>develop strategies to prevent and respond to hate crime activity; and</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>evaluate State laws and policies relating to hate crimes.</text> </level> </level> <level label="i"> <level label="1"> <text>On or before December 1 each year, beginning in 2024, the Commission shall report to the State Department of Education on policy recommendations to address hate crimes that occur in schools.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>On or before December 1 each year, beginning in 2024, the Commission shall report to the General Assembly, in accordance with § 2–1257 of this article, on legislative recommendations to address hate crimes in the State.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="6-901" title_number="6" title_name="Attorney General" subtitle_number="9" subtitle_name="Subpoenas"> <level label="a"> <text>This section may not be construed to allow the contravention, denial, or abrogation of a privilege or right recognized by law.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <level label="1"> <text>For the limited purpose of furthering an ongoing health care fraud investigation under the Maryland False Health Claims Act or other civil authority, the Attorney General, a Deputy Attorney General, or an Assistant Attorney General designated in writing by the Attorney General may issue in any court in the State a subpoena requiring a person to:</text> <level label="i"> <text>produce documentary material for inspection, copying, or reproduction;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>answer, under oath and in writing, written interrogatories;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>give sworn oral testimony; or</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>provide any combination of items (i), (ii), and (iii) of this paragraph.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>A subpoena issued under paragraph (1) of this subsection may be served in the same manner as a subpoena issued by a circuit court.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <level label="1"> <level label="i"> <text>If a person fails to obey a lawfully served subpoena issued under subsection (b) of this section, the Attorney General may report a failure to obey the subpoena to the circuit court with jurisdiction over the matter.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>The Attorney General shall provide a copy of the subpoena and proof of service to the circuit court.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>After conducting a hearing at which the person who allegedly failed to comply with a subpoena issued under subsection (b) of this section has had an opportunity to be heard and be represented by counsel, the court may grant appropriate relief.</text> </level> </level> </section> <section article="gsg" article_name="State Government" number="6-1001" effective_note="EFFECTIVE UNTIL JUNE 30, 2030 PER CHAPTERS 607 AND 608 OF 2026" title_number="6" title_name="Attorney General" subtitle_number="10"> <level label="a"> <text>There is a Commission on the House of Reformation and Instruction for Colored Children.</text> </level> <level label="b"> <text>The purpose of the Commission is to:</text> <level label="1"> <text>research the history, operations, and resident deaths at the House of Reformation and Instruction for Colored Children;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>provide a complete and public accounting of the children who died and were buried on the grounds of the House of Reformation and Instruction for Colored Children;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>promote healing and reconciliation through truth–telling, acknowledgment, and recommendations for systemic reform; and</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>ensure descendant and community voice throughout the investigation and reconciliation process.</text> </level> </level> <level label="c"> <text>The Commission consists of:</text> <level label="1"> <text>one member appointed by the President of the Senate of Maryland;</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>one member appointed by the Speaker of the House of Delegates;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>the Attorney General, or the Attorney General’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>the Director of the Maryland Historical Trust, or the Director’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>the Secretary of Veterans and Military Families, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>the Chair of the Prince George’s County Planning Board of the Maryland–National Capital Park and Planning Commission, or the Chair’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>the Secretary of Juvenile Services, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>the Chief Archaeologist of the Maryland Department of Transportation’s State Highway Administration, or the Chief Archaeologist’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>the State Archivist, or the State Archivist’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="10"> <text>the Secretary of General Services, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="11"> <text>the Chair of the Maryland Commission on African American History and Culture, or the Chair’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="12"> <text>the Executive Director of the Gibson–Banks Center for Race and Law at the University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law, or the Executive Director’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="13"> <text>the Prince George’s County Executive, or the County Executive’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="14"> <text>the Secretary of Human Services, or the Secretary’s designee;</text> </level> <level label="15"> <text>the State Superintendent of Schools, or the Superintendent’s designee; and</text> </level> <level label="16"> <text>six members of the general public appointed by the Attorney General that shall include:</text> <level label="i"> <text>one descendant of a child buried at the site, a former resident of the House of Reformation, or a former justice–involved youth;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>one academic expert in forensic anthropology, archaeology, African American history, or other related disciplines;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>one representative from a historically Black college or university in the State;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>one representative from a civil rights organization; and</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>two individuals with experience in civil rights advocacy and litigation.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="d"> <level label="1"> <text>The Attorney General shall serve as Chair of the Commission.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Commission shall elect a vice chair from among its members.</text> </level> </level> <level label="e"> <text>Members appointed by the Attorney General shall serve at the pleasure of the Attorney General.</text> </level> <level label="f"> <level label="1"> <text>A member of the Commission:</text> <level label="i"> <text>may not receive compensation as a member of the Commission; but</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>is entitled to reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations, as provided in the State budget.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Office of the Attorney General may provide stipends to descendant, former resident, and community members to support the participation in the Commission, subject to available funds.</text> </level> </level> <level label="g"> <text>The Office of the Attorney General shall provide staff for the Commission.</text> </level> <level label="h"> <text>The Commission shall:</text> <level label="1"> <text>direct and oversee the investigation of the House of Reformation and Instruction for Colored Children by contracting with qualified professional experts, including universities, research institutions, and independent practitioners, to conduct:</text> <level label="i"> <text>forensic anthropology, archaeological surveys, and historical research to the highest ethical and professional standards;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>location and documentation of all graves using modern archaeological and forensic methods;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>identification of individuals buried at the site through historical records, forensic analysis, DNA testing, and genealogical research;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>reconstruction of institutional conditions, policies, and practices throughout the facility’s history;</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>documentation of deaths, including circumstances, causes, and State responses; and</text> </level> <level label="vi"> <text>analysis of systemic failures that allowed harms to occur;</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>review and approve research methodologies, work plans, and findings produced by contracted experts;</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>when appropriate and approved by the Commission, authorize contracted experts to conduct exhumation and forensic analysis of remains in accordance with best practices in forensic anthropology and bioethics;</text> </level> <level label="4"> <text>direct contracted experts to establish a DNA database for descendant matching and pursue genealogical research to locate and notify descendants;</text> </level> <level label="5"> <text>facilitate meaningful engagement with descendants, African American communities, and others with historical, familial, or cultural connections to those interred at the site;</text> </level> <level label="6"> <text>provide opportunities for descendants, survivors, former residents, and community members to share testimony and participate in public acknowledgment;</text> </level> <level label="7"> <text>establish protocols for descendant notification, reburial, and culturally appropriate treatment of human remains in consultation with contracted experts and community stakeholders;</text> </level> <level label="8"> <text>oversee contracted work for restoration and preservation of the cemetery grounds;</text> </level> <level label="9"> <text>recommend the design and the implementation of a permanent memorial at the site;</text> </level> <level label="10"> <text>ensure long–term maintenance and accessibility of the permanent memorial described under item (9) of this subsection;</text> </level> <level label="11"> <text>recommend educational initiatives to incorporate the history of the House of Reformation and Instruction for Colored Children into the State’s curriculum;</text> </level> <level label="12"> <text>document and disseminate lessons learned for educational purposes and to inform future State–led restorative history initiatives;</text> </level> <level label="13"> <text>make findings regarding institutional failures and State accountability based on research conducted by contracted experts under this section;</text> </level> <level label="14"> <text>develop recommendations for systemic reform, which may include:</text> <level label="i"> <text>official State acknowledgment and formal apology;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>reparative measures for descendants and survivors;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>reforms to prevent future deaths in custody and improve current juvenile justice policies;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>ongoing commemoration and education initiatives; and</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>any other measure the Commission deems appropriate to promote healing and reconciliation; and</text> </level> </level> <level label="15"> <text>perform other duties and responsibilities necessary to accomplish the Commission’s purposes.</text> </level> </level> <level label="i"> <level label="1"> <text>Subject to paragraphs (2) and (3) of this subsection, the Office of the Attorney General may procure goods and services on behalf of the Commission.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The execution of a major contract requires approval by vote of the Commission.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>To the extent practicable and consistent with State and federal law, the Office of the Attorney General shall procure goods and services from Maryland institutions and historically Black colleges and universities in the State.</text> </level> </level> <level label="j"> <level label="1"> <text>All State agencies, units of State government, and political subdivisions of the State shall cooperate and comply with information requests from the Commission and its contracted researchers and shall provide access to facilities, records, and logistical support necessary to conduct the investigation.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Commission, through the Attorney General, may issue subpoenas for documents and testimony relevant to the investigation.</text> </level> </level> <level label="k"> <level label="1"> <level label="i"> <text>Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Commission and its contractors are authorized to conduct archaeological surveys and test excavations and carry out the disinterment of human remains on the grounds of the House of Reformation and Instruction for Colored Children without separate agency permits.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>The Commission shall consult with the Maryland Historical Trust and the Maryland Department of Health regarding methods and safety for actions authorized under subparagraph (i) of this paragraph.</text> </level> </level> <level label="2"> <text>Title 17 of the Criminal Procedure Article requiring judicial authorization and a sworn affidavit regarding a suspected homicide does not apply to a forensic genetic genealogical DNA analysis and a search conducted by the Commission, if:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the search is conducted exclusively for the humanitarian purpose of identifying the deceased and notifying descendants;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>biological samples are not used to screen for medical conditions or traits; and</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>all DNA data is destroyed on the conclusion of the investigation.</text> </level> </level> <level label="3"> <level label="i"> <text>Notwithstanding § 3–8A–27 of the Courts Article or the Maryland Public Information Act, the Commission and the Commission’s contractors acting in furtherance of the duties specified under this section shall have full, unrestricted access to all sealed or otherwise confidential juvenile records, medical records, and administrative files related to the House of Reformation and Instruction for Colored Children.</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <level label="1"> <text>Subject to subsubparagraph 2 of this subparagraph, the Commission shall maintain the confidentiality of any living individual mentioned in the records under subparagraph (i) of this paragraph.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Commission may disclose the names and circumstances of deceased individuals for the purposes of reports and memorialization.</text> </level> </level> </level> <level label="4"> <text>The exemptions to general laws granted in this section are determined by the General Assembly to be necessary due to the unique historical nature of the site for which general laws are inapplicable.</text> </level> </level> <level label="l"> <level label="1"> <text>Subject to paragraph (2) of this subsection, funding for the Commission shall be as provided in the State budget.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>The Attorney General may pursue federal grants and other funding sources to supplement State appropriations, subject to Commission approval of grant applications.</text> </level> <level label="3"> <text>The Attorney General shall administer funding for the Commission, including State appropriations, federal grants, and private donations designated for this purpose.</text> </level> </level> <level label="m"> <level label="1"> <text>On or before December 31, 2027, the Commission shall submit an initial report documenting the progress of the investigation and including any preliminary recommendations to the Governor and, in accordance with § 2–1257 of this article, the General Assembly.</text> </level> <level label="2"> <text>On or before December 31, 2029, the Commission shall submit a final report to the Governor and, in accordance with § 2–1257 of this article, the General Assembly on:</text> <level label="i"> <text>the complete findings of the Commission’s research;</text> </level> <level label="ii"> <text>all identified individuals and the circumstances of their deaths;</text> </level> <level label="iii"> <text>historical analysis of institutional policies and practices;</text> </level> <level label="iv"> <text>recommendations for acknowledgment, memorial, reburial, reparative measures, and policy reforms; and</text> </level> <level label="v"> <text>an accounting of the Commission’s expenditures.</text> </level> </level> </level> </section>