Bill > HB544

This bill establishes a new legal definition for third-degree assault in Maryland, creating a misdemeanor offense for intentionally causing "offensive contact," which is defined as nonconsensual physical contact that a reasonable person would find offensive. Importantly, the bill clarifies that "offensive contact" does not include contact resulting in physical injury, contact that causes a risk of serious physical injury, domestically related crimes, or sexual crimes. A person can be charged with this misdemeanor if they intentionally cause offensive contact, engage in conduct intended to put another person in fear of offensive contact, or attempt to cause offensive contact. The penalty for this offense is up to 90 days in jail, a fine of up to $500, or both. The bill also modifies jurisdictional rules for prosecuting this offense, specifying that third-degree assault under this new provision is not a lesser included crime of any other crime and can be tried in the District Court. Additionally, the bill updates expungement eligibility rules, allowing individuals convicted of third-degree assault to potentially have their records expunged after 7 years, and the law will take effect on October 1, 2025.

Justice

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0544?ys=2025RS