Bill > HB1074

This bill amends Maryland's criminal law to establish comprehensive protections against gift card theft and fraud. The legislation defines a "gift card" as a physical or digital instrument that can be used to purchase goods, services, or anything of value with a prepaid balance, and introduces new criminal offenses related to gift card misuse. Specifically, the bill makes it illegal to take a gift card from another person without consent, receive a lost or mistakenly delivered gift card with intent to use or sell it, or sell/buy gift cards outside of authorized channels. The law creates two primary criminal offenses: gift card theft and falsely making or embossing gift cards. Penalties vary based on the value of the gift card, with less serious violations (gift cards under $100) punishable by up to 90 days in jail or a $500 fine, and more serious violations (gift cards $100 or more) potentially resulting in up to 6 months in jail for a first offense and up to 1 year for subsequent offenses. The bill aims to protect consumers and businesses from unauthorized gift card transactions and provide legal recourse for gift card-related crimes. The new law is set to take effect on October 1, 2025.

Justice

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB1074?ys=2025RS