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Maryland’s Good Samaritan Law

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Maryland’s Good Samaritan Law, also referred to as the Good Sam Law, protects those who assist with an alcohol- or drug-related overdose.

Good Sam Law PSA

What Does the Law Cover?

  • Possessing or using a controlled dangerous substance
  • Possessing or using drug paraphernalia
  • Providing alcohol to minors

Calling 911 will NOT affect your parole or probation status.

Who is Protected?

  • Any person who seeks, provides, or assists with getting medical assistance as the result of a person ingesting or using alcohol or drugs
  • The person experiencing the medical emergency if they receive assistance because someone else sought assistance for them.

Who is NOT Protected?

  • The law does not protect persons witnessing the medical emergency if they’re not helping with the medical emergency.
  • The law will not protect against arrest for open warrants or other crimes not listed above.

See all misdemeanors covered by the Good Samaritan Law

What Are the Law’s Limitations?

  • It is a state law and only applies to State crimes, not Federal or immigration laws.
  • It does not apply to: open warrants, immigration status, university regulations, drug felonies, or other crimes not listed above.
  • It does not prevent law enforcement from conducting an investigation and gathering evidence.

To learn more, please see our Good Samaritan Law Fact Sheet:

Good Samaritan Law Public Awareness Toolkit

Use these print and digital resources to share information about Maryland’s Good Samaritan Law.

Good Samaritan Law Toolkit

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