Bill > HB409

This bill, known as the Youth Charging Reform Act, alters the jurisdiction of the juvenile court by removing a specific exclusion that prevented the court from hearing cases involving children alleged to have committed crimes punishable by life imprisonment. Previously, the juvenile court did not have jurisdiction over such serious offenses, meaning these cases would be handled in adult criminal courts. This bill effectively repeals that exclusion, allowing the juvenile court to have jurisdiction over a broader range of offenses committed by minors, aligning with a broader reform effort to address how young people are charged with crimes. The changes are prospective, meaning they will only apply to acts committed on or after October 1, 2026.

Justice

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0409?ys=2026RS