Bill > HB374

This bill amends Maryland's Correctional Services law to prohibit individuals convicted of first-degree murder (specifically § 2-201 of the Criminal Law Article) from earning diminution credits that would reduce their term of confinement, but only for murders committed on or after October 1, 2025. Diminution credits are typically a way for incarcerated individuals to reduce their sentence through good behavior or participation in rehabilitation programs. The bill specifically targets first-degree murder cases, preventing those convicted after the specified date from receiving these credits in both state and local correctional facilities. This means that individuals convicted of first-degree murder will be required to serve their full sentenced term without the possibility of reducing their time through credits. The bill is narrowly focused, applying only to murders committed on or after October 1, 2025, and does not affect murders committed before that date. The law will take effect on October 1, 2025, giving advance notice of the change in sentencing guidelines for first-degree murder.

Justice

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0374?ys=2025RS