Bill > HB621

This bill modifies Maryland's criminal procedure laws regarding the expungement of certain cannabis possession charges and protections for individuals with expunged records. The bill prohibits employers, educational institutions, and government entities from requiring disclosure of expunged criminal charges or using the refusal to disclose such information as a sole reason for adverse actions like employment denial, school admission rejection, or denial of government services. Specifically, the bill mandates that the Maryland Judiciary Case Search and Maryland Electronic Courts (MDEC) system cannot reference cannabis possession cases disposed of before July 1, 2023. It further requires the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services to expunge all cannabis possession cases issued before July 1, 2023, by July 1, 2024. The bill also establishes penalties for violations, including potential fines up to $1,000, imprisonment up to one year, and for government officials, potential removal from public service. The legislation is designed to provide additional protections and opportunities for individuals with past minor cannabis possession charges by ensuring these records do not continue to negatively impact their personal and professional lives. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2025.

Justice

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0621?ys=2025RS