Maryland § 2-404
Full text of Maryland Maryland Code § 2-404, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 2-404.
(a) In this section, “obsolete rank” means a rank designated by the Secretary to which no further promotions will be made.
(b) The Secretary shall make all promotions.
(c) (1) Promotion to a rank, except deputy secretary, shall be made in the manner required by rule.
(2) For a noncommissioned rank that has fewer than 25 police employees, the Secretary by rule may direct that it is unnecessary to fill the noncommissioned rank for purposes of promotion.
(3) (i) This paragraph does not apply to a rank that requires technical knowledge.
(ii) Except as provided in subsection (d) of this section, a police employee may not be appointed or promoted to a rank unless the police employee:
1. is bypassing an obsolete rank and currently fills the rank immediately below the obsolete rank; or
2. has filled the rank immediately below the rank to which the police employee is to be promoted.
(d) (1) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Secretary may appoint without examination:
(i) a police employee who holds a commissioned rank to the rank of Major; and
(ii) a police employee who holds a commissioned rank of not less than Captain to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.
(2) A police employee appointed in accordance with this subsection continues to serve at the pleasure of the Secretary.
(3) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, on termination of an appointment under this subsection, the police employee may:
(i) return to the rank held before the appointment; or
(ii) be promoted to a higher rank to which the police employee became eligible for promotion during the appointment.
(e) An incumbent police employee in an obsolete rank remains in that rank until promoted, demoted, retired, or terminated.
(f) Promotions of civilian employees shall be made in accordance with the State Personnel and Pensions Article.
Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland § 2-404
What does Maryland Code § 2-404 cover?
Section 2-404 is part of the Maryland Code, the codified statutory law of Maryland. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Maryland § 2-404?
A common citation format is "Maryland Code § 2-404" (Maryland). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Maryland law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Maryland official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Maryland attorney.
How does Maryland § 2-404 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Maryland can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Maryland.