Courts - Artificial Intelligence Evidence Clinic Pilot Program - Establishment

HB 966 establishes a two-year pilot program within Maryland's Administrative Office of the Courts to provide courts with AI evidence expertise. The program will select a Maryland-based academic or tech entity (prioritizing those with AI experience and academic focus) through a request for proposals to develop expert resources for civil cases where parties lack legal representation or access to AI experts. It authorizes up to $250,000 in annual funding for 2027-2028, with no more than 20% for administrative costs, and includes liability protections for the selected entity (excluding cases of serious negligence). This directly affects circuit and district courts handling civil cases involving potential AI-altered evidence, particularly benefiting unrepresented individuals. The program aims to create a practical resource for courts navigating AI-related evidence without creating new legal standards.