Maryland 2022 Regular Session

Maryland House Bill HB148

Introduced
1/12/22  
Refer
1/12/22  
Report Pass
2/14/22  
Engrossed
2/17/22  
Refer
2/18/22  
Report Pass
4/4/22  
Enrolled
4/7/22  
Chaptered
4/21/22  

Caption

Criminal Law - Stalking - Definition

Impact

The enactment of HB 148 will have significant implications for state laws regarding personal safety and harassment. By reformulating the definition of stalking, this bill enables law enforcement agencies to respond more effectively to these modern forms of stalking and conduct investigations that might have been overlooked previously. Additionally, it sends a clear message about the seriousness of stalking behaviors and their potential to cause emotional distress, allowing for more appropriate legal repercussions for offenders.

Summary

House Bill 148 updates the definition of stalking within Maryland's criminal law framework. This legislation expands the existing definition to include not only traditional in-person conduct but also actions carried out through electronic means or tracking devices. By incorporating these elements into the definition of stalking, the bill recognizes the evolving nature of harassment and abusive behaviors in a digital age, acknowledging that threats can no longer be limited to face-to-face interactions.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 148 appears to be largely positive among policymakers and advocacy groups who emphasize the importance of protecting individuals in today’s complex social climate. Supporters argue that this legislative change is necessary to better safeguard victims from stalking behaviors that occur through technological means, reflecting societal shifts and increasing awareness about personal safety issues. However, there may also be concerns about enforcement and potential overreach in how stalking is defined and prosecuted.

Contention

While the bill enjoyed significant support and passed the voting stage with a unanimous outcome, there are underlying concerns regarding how the new definition might be applied in practice. Critics may raise issues about the breadth of the definition, fearing it could lead to misinterpretations or misuse, particularly regarding what constitutes 'malicious conduct'. Thus, the balance between ensuring safety while safeguarding against possible abuses of the law could remain a point of contention as HB 148 is implemented.

Companion Bills

MD SB328

Crossfiled Criminal Law - Stalking - Definition

Previously Filed As

MD SB328

Criminal Law - Stalking - Definition

MD SB429

Criminal Law - Stalking - Penalties

MD HB110

Criminal Law - Stalking - Penalties

MD HB941

Criminal Law - Threats and Stalking - Recklessness

MD SB391

Criminal Law - Sexual Extortion, Stalking, and Revenge Porn - Statute of Limitations and In Banc Review

MD HB544

Criminal Law - Sexual Extortion, Stalking, and Revenge Porn - Statute of Limitations and In Banc Review

MD SB0056

Criminal Stalking Exemption Amendments

MD HB422

Criminal Law – Crime of Violence – Definition

MD SB3574

STALKING/HARASSMENT NO CONTACT

MD SB0123

Criminal Code Recodification

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.