Bill > HB907

This bill establishes that intentionally causing offensive contact, engaging in conduct that puts another person in fear of offensive contact, or attempting to cause offensive contact are all considered third-degree assault, a misdemeanor punishable by up to 90 days in jail or a $500 fine. Offensive contact is defined as nonconsensual physical contact that a reasonable person would find offensive, but it specifically excludes contact that results in physical injury, causes a risk of serious physical injury, or is related to domestic violence or sexual crimes. The bill also clarifies that third-degree assault under this new provision is not considered a lesser included crime of any other offense unless specifically charged as such, and it outlines how charging documents should be worded for this offense. Additionally, the bill makes third-degree assault under this new section eligible for expungement, meaning a criminal record for this offense can be sealed under certain circumstances, and it specifies that the District Court will have jurisdiction over these cases, with concurrent jurisdiction for circuit courts if certain conditions are met, such as a jury trial demand or if the offense is part of a larger case within a circuit court's jurisdiction.

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https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0907?ys=2026RS