Bill > SB170

This bill establishes a comprehensive legal framework to criminalize the illegal exploitation of government benefits through various means. The bill defines key terms like "coercion" (which includes physical threats, exposure of sensitive information, document confiscation, and financial manipulation), "deception" (creating false impressions or making promises without intent to fulfill), and "exploitation" (improperly using an individual's benefits through undue influence or false representation). It specifically lists "government benefits" as including programs like Medicare, Medicaid, TANF, WIC, SNAP, Social Security, veterans' benefits, and others. The bill makes it a felony to knowingly recruit, harbor, transport, or obtain an individual for the purpose of appropriating their government benefits, with additional criminal penalties for financially benefiting from such actions or conspiring with others to do so. Violations are considered separate offenses that cannot be merged with other criminal convictions, and individuals found guilty can face imprisonment of up to 25 years, a fine of up to $15,000, or both. The law is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, and is designed to protect vulnerable individuals from benefits fraud and exploitation.

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https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0170?ys=2025RS