Bill > HB135

This bill, known as the Porch Piracy Act of 2025, establishes a new criminal offense targeting the theft of mail and packages from private property. The legislation defines "mail or package" as an item delivered by the United States Postal Service or a delivery service company, and makes it a felony to knowingly and willfully obtain or control a package without the recipient's permission and with the intent to deprive the owner of the package. If convicted, an offender can be sentenced to up to 5 years in prison and will be required by the court to either return the stolen package to its intended recipient or pay full restitution for its value. Additionally, the bill mandates that the Central Collection Unit report any overdue restitution related to this specific type of theft to consumer reporting agencies, which could negatively impact the offender's credit history. The new law is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, providing a clear legal framework to combat the growing problem of package theft, often referred to as "porch piracy," by establishing specific penalties and recovery mechanisms for victims.

Justice

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0135?ys=2025RS