Bill > HB177

This bill modifies Maryland's criminal law to strengthen protections against mail and package theft. It establishes two distinct offenses: unlawfully opening letters and stealing mail or packages. For opening letters not addressed to oneself without permission, the penalty is a misdemeanor with 6 days of potential imprisonment and a $15 fine, and the court must notify the U.S. Postmaster General of the conviction. For mail or package theft, which is defined as knowingly obtaining or controlling mail or packages intended for another person without permission, the offense is classified as a felony with a potential imprisonment of up to 5 years. In both cases, the convicted person must pay related administrative costs, and for offenses involving U.S. Postal Service mail or packages, the court is required to inform the Postmaster General of the conviction. The bill will take effect on October 1, 2025, providing clear legal mechanisms to prosecute and penalize individuals who interfere with others' mail and packages.

Justice

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0177?ys=2025RS