Bill > HB111

This bill, titled "Family Law - Child Abuse - Definitions," proposes to amend Maryland's Family Law Article by updating the definitions related to child abuse and neglect. Specifically, it removes language that limited the definition of "abuse" and "sexual abuse" to acts committed by specific individuals such as parents, household members, or those in positions of authority, thereby broadening the scope of who can be considered an abuser. The bill also removes the definition of "family member" and "household member," indicating a shift away from defining abuse based on the relationship to the child or the location of the home. Additionally, it clarifies that "labor trafficking" and "sexual abuse" are defined without the previous restrictions on the perpetrator's identity. The bill also reletters some definitions to maintain sequential order and sets an effective date of October 1, 2026.

Justice

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0111?ys=2026RS