Bill > HB1000

This bill enhances legal protections for human and pet remains in cemeteries by expanding definitions and establishing stricter criminal penalties. The legislation broadens the definition of "permanent cemetery" to include those owned by families and religious organizations, and introduces comprehensive prohibitions against tampering with human and pet remains. Under the new law, individuals are forbidden from damaging, desecrating, mutilating, storing, trafficking, or transporting human or pet remains without authorization, with violations classified as felonies. First-time offenders could face imprisonment of 5-10 years and fines of at least $20,000, while subsequent violations carry more severe penalties of 10-15 years imprisonment and fines of at least $30,000. The bill also allows family members or descendants to bring civil actions to recover economic and non-economic damages, and permits state departments to deny or revoke occupational licenses for individuals convicted of these offenses. Additionally, the law requires violators to pay for restoration of any damaged property and explicitly protects pet remains in cemeteries, with similar protections and penalties as those for human remains. The legislation aims to ensure respectful treatment of burial sites and remains, with the new provisions set to take effect on October 1, 2025.

Justice

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB1000?ys=2025RS