Bill > HB1081

This bill, known as the "Unmask Hate Act," creates a new criminal offense in Maryland that prohibits a person from intentionally harassing, intimidating, or threatening another person while deliberately concealing their identity with a mask or other face-covering device, and with the intent to make the victim reasonably fear for their physical safety. Under this law, violators would face misdemeanor charges with escalating penalties: first-time offenders could be imprisoned for up to 90 days or fined up to $500 (or both), while subsequent offenses could result in up to 180 days of imprisonment and fines up to $1,000. The bill includes several important affirmative defenses that would exempt individuals from prosecution, such as wearing masks for holiday celebrations, occupational protective equipment, weather protection, artistic performances, emergency situations, illness prevention, and religious purposes. Notably, the law specifies that a conviction under this section cannot be merged with other criminal convictions and that sentences can be imposed separately and concurrently or consecutively with other sentences. The law is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, providing time for public awareness and implementation.

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https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB1081?ys=2025RS