Bill > HB132

This bill amends Maryland law regarding the admissibility of intercepted communications, which refers to conversations or data captured through wiretapping or electronic surveillance. Generally, such communications and any evidence derived from them cannot be used in court or other proceedings if the interception violated Maryland's wiretapping laws. However, this bill creates exceptions: evidence from communications intercepted in other jurisdictions may be admissible in Maryland if at least one party was outside the state, the interception wasn't part of a Maryland law enforcement investigation, and all parties were co-conspirators in a violent crime. Additionally, in criminal trials or hearings, intercepted communications and derived evidence can be admitted if the court finds the case involves a crime against an individual, the evidence is material, the interception wasn't part of a Maryland investigation, the evidence is more probative than other available evidence, and admitting it serves the interest of justice, provided the opposing party is given at least 14 days' notice and the name of the intercepted party.