Senate delays consideration of Maryland longitudinal data-sharing bill after privacy concerns

The Senate of Maryland on Feb. 18 special-ordered Senate Bill 56, a bill to authorize external data sharing by the Maryland Longitudinal Data Center for multistate reporting, after floor members raised questions about privacy and data protections.

The bill was read by the clerk with a question on the adoption of two committee amendments and a favorable report. The minority whip requested additional time to consult stakeholders and the agency overseeing the data center, saying, "I wanna see if we could special order for 1 more day," citing outstanding questions about privacy. The presiding officer granted the request and the bill was placed on the calendar for consideration at the appropriate time tomorrow.

Supporters on the floor did not complete extended debate on the amendments before the special order. The bill as read instructs committee amendments be considered; members who flagged privacy concerns asked for one more day to coordinate with committee staff and the data center.

Next steps: SB 56 remains on the Senate calendar and is scheduled for further consideration tomorrow; committee and floor members signaled they intend to continue discussion focused on the bill's privacy and data-sharing safeguards.