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Bill > SB177
MD SB177
MD SB177Criminal Law - Obstruction or Interference With Exercise of Religious Beliefs - Prohibition
summary
Introduced
01/14/2026
01/14/2026
In Committee
03/02/2026
03/02/2026
Crossed Over
03/06/2026
03/06/2026
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2026 Regular Session
Bill Summary
Prohibiting a person, acting alone or with others, from preventing another from entering or exiting a religious facility; and establishing that a violation of the Act is a misdemeanor with a penalty of imprisonment not exceeding 90 days or a fine not exceeding $1,000 or both on conviction.
AI Summary
This bill prohibits individuals from using force, threats of force, or physical obstruction to interfere with or physically harm someone who is lawfully exercising or attempting to exercise their right to religious freedom, specifically at a place of worship, referencing the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. Violating this provision is classified as a misdemeanor, punishable by up to 90 days in jail, a fine of up to $1,000, or both. The bill aims to protect individuals' ability to freely practice their religion without intimidation or physical impediment.
Committee Categories
Justice
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Third Reading Passed (44-0) (on 03/06/2026)
bill text
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0177?ys=2026RS |
| BillText | https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/2026RS/bills/sb/sb0177t.pdf |
| Favorable with Amendments 413927/1 | https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/2026RS/amds/bil_0007/sb0177_41392701.pdf |
| Vote Image | https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/2026RS/votes_comm/sb0177_jpr.pdf |
| BillText | https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/2026RS/bills/sb/sb0177f.pdf |
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