Favorable
Committee: Judiciary
HB0309
The Maryland Catholic Conference offers this testimony in support of House Bill 309.
The Maryland Catholic Conference is the public policy representative of the three (arch)dioceses serving Maryland, which together encompass over one million Marylanders. Statewide, their parishes, schools, hospitals and numerous charities combine to form our state’s second largest social service provider network, behind only our state government.
This legislation ensures that individuals cannot be stopped, detained or arrested for certain civil offenses while inside a judicial facility or within one mile when traveling to attend a court-related appointment, except under clearly defined circumstances. It further states that evidence obtained in violation of this protection is inadmissible in any proceeding under Maryland jurisdiction.
Judicial facilities exist to provide help, clarity, and resolution—not fear. Individuals enter these spaces seeking support, whether through hearings, meetings, applications or other essential services that help them navigate complex legal and social systems. Yet for many families and communities, courts have long been places associated with anxiety, intimidation and the fear of unjust penalties simply for showing up. No person should feel unsafe when accessing the very institutions designed to protect their rights. Maryland must be a state that encourages individuals to seek help, guidance and justice—without the added barrier of fearing detainment for minor civil matters.
Courts must remain safe, accessible spaces where Marylanders can resolve disputes, seek justice, and meaningfully participate in civic processes. Ensuring that people cannot be stopped or arrested for certain civil offenses while entering or traveling to a judicial facility prevents unnecessary escalation, reduces barriers to participation, and reinforces the fairness and integrity of our legal system. These protections build trust and strengthen the relationship between communities and the institutions intended to serve them.
Every individual deserves fair access to legal processes without intimidation. Creating an environment where people can confidently participate in the justice system reflects our commitment to solidarity, upholds basic human rights, and allows historically marginalized communities to seek truth, safety and justice without fear. Maryland must be a place that protects its people while also ensuring they can safely reach the resources they need to move forward. We should never support practices that create fear or shame for those trying to engage with the system in the correct, responsible way.
For these reasons, the Maryland Catholic Conference urges a favorable report on House Bill 309.