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This bill mandates timely disclosure by the State's Attorney to defendants regarding the use of facial recognition and forensic genetic genealogical DNA analysis in certain criminal cases.
If you use facial recognition technology in criminal investigations in Maryland, you must disclose its use to defendants promptly or face legal repercussions.
State
Maryland
Bill Number
SB46
Status
Unknown
Risk Level
Medium
Category
Comprehensive
Last Action
May 12, 2026
Last Verified
Jun 9, 2026
Data Updated
Jun 9, 2026
What do these statuses mean?▼
Introduced— Filed in the legislature; not yet heard in committee
In Committee— Assigned to and being reviewed by a legislative committee
Passed— Approved by one or both chambers; awaiting further action
Signed / Enacted— Signed into law by the governor; may or may not be in effect yet
Dead / Vetoed— Vetoed, failed to pass, or session expired without action
Unknown— Status data not yet available or awaiting classification
SB46 requires the State's Attorney to inform defendants if facial recognition technology or forensic genetic genealogical DNA analysis was used in certain criminal cases. This legislation aims to enhance transparency in criminal investigations and protect defendants' rights. Compliance is crucial for legal practitioners involved in such cases.
Key Provisions
Requires timely disclosure of facial recognition technology use in certain criminal cases.
Mandates disclosure of forensic genetic genealogical DNA analysis technology used in investigations.
Defines terms related to facial recognition and forensic genetic genealogical DNA analysis.
Aims to enhance transparency in the criminal justice process.
Protects defendants' rights by ensuring they are informed of technological evidence.
Latest Legislative Action
Approved by the Governor - Chapter 495
Bill Sponsors
Name
Role
Simonaire
Primary
Compliance Checklist
Disclose the use of facial recognition technology to defendants Who: State's Attorney Deadline: Timely disclosure as per the bill's requirements Penalty: Legal challenges or implications for prosecution integrity
Disclose the use of DNA analysis technology to defendants Who: State's Attorney Deadline: Timely disclosure as per the bill's requirements Penalty: Legal challenges or implications for prosecution integrity
Full Legal Analysis
SB46 introduces a requirement for the State's Attorney to disclose the use of specific technologies—facial recognition and forensic genetic genealogical DNA analysis—during certain criminal investigations. This disclosure must be made in a timely manner to the defendant, ensuring that they are aware of the technological methods employed in their case. The bill emphasizes the importance of transparency in the legal process, particularly concerning the use of advanced technologies that may impact the outcome of criminal proceedings. Compliance with this requirement is essential for the State's Attorney, as failure to disclose could lead to legal challenges or implications for the integrity of the prosecution. The bill also defines key terms related to the technologies in question, which may help clarify the scope of its application and ensure consistent understanding among legal professionals.
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