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MD HB64

MD HB64
Theft of Mail and Packages and Victim Notification


summary

Introduced
01/08/2025
In Committee
01/08/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
04/08/2025

Introduced Session

2025 Regular Session

Bill Summary

Prohibiting the theft of mail or packages; requiring the prosecutor of a violation of the Act to notify the victim or the victim's representative about each court proceeding, the right of the victim to submit a victim impact statement, any posttrial court proceeding, any appeal, and any sentence review related to the court proceedings; and providing that a person who violates the Act by depriving an owner of mail or a package is guilty of a felony and is subject to imprisonment of up to 5 years.

AI Summary

This bill introduces two key provisions: first, it establishes a new criminal offense of mail and package theft, making it a felony punishable by up to 5 years in prison for anyone who knowingly and without permission obtains or takes control of mail or packages delivered to another person with the intent to deprive the owner of the item. The bill defines "mail or package" as any item delivered or left to be collected by the U.S. Postal Service or a delivery service company. Second, the bill enhances victim notification procedures in criminal cases, particularly for victims of mail and package theft, by mandating that prosecuting attorneys provide timely and comprehensive information about court proceedings, plea agreements, trial outcomes, appeals, and sentencing reviews. The bill allows victims or their representatives to request notifications through a form or the Maryland Electronic Courts (MDEC) system, and provides mechanisms to keep victims' contact information confidential while ensuring they receive updates about their case. The new law is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, giving legal systems time to prepare for implementation.

Committee Categories

Justice

Sponsors (1)

Last Action

House Judiciary Hearing (13:00:00 1/21/2025 ) (on 01/21/2025)

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