Bill > HB692

This bill, known as the Porch Piracy Act, modifies existing laws to address mail and package theft by prohibiting the knowing and intentional opening of mail addressed to another without permission, with penalties including up to one month imprisonment or a $1,000 fine. It also criminalizes the theft of mail, specifically prohibiting theft of mail under Section 7-104 of the Criminal Law Article, and makes it a felony to steal mail using an "arrow key," which is defined as a key designed for postal service or delivery personnel to access mailboxes or depositories, with penalties of up to five years imprisonment or a $5,000 fine. Furthermore, possessing an arrow key with the intent to commit mail theft is also a felony, punishable by up to three years imprisonment or a $3,000 fine. The bill also expands the jurisdiction of both the District Court and circuit courts to concurrently try violations of these new mail theft provisions, meaning either court can hear these cases.

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https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0692?ys=2026RS