summary
Introduced
02/05/2026
02/05/2026
In Committee
02/05/2026
02/05/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2026 Regular Session
Bill Summary
Prohibiting a person from knowingly and willfully interfering with a custody order over which a court of the State has jurisdiction by enticing or persuading a minor away or withholding a minor from a lawful custodian, a court-appointed guardian, or a person lawfully standing in loco parentis; and requiring a written warning for a violation of the Act to include certain information and a notice of the potential penalties that may be imposed for subsequent violations.
AI Summary
This bill establishes penalties for interfering with court-ordered custody arrangements in Maryland, making it illegal for anyone to knowingly and intentionally entice or persuade a minor away from their lawful custodian, court-appointed guardian, or someone acting in their place (in loco parentis), or to withhold the minor from them. For a first offense, the violator will receive a written warning that must include specific details about the violation and a notice of future penalties. Subsequent offenses escalate in severity, starting with a civil fine of up to $250 for a second offense, up to $500 for a third offense, a misdemeanor charge with up to 30 days imprisonment for a fourth offense, and a misdemeanor charge with up to one year imprisonment for a fifth or subsequent offense.
Committee Categories
Justice
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
House Judiciary Hearing (13:00:00 2/26/2026 ) (on 02/26/2026)
bill text
bill summary
Loading...
bill summary
Loading...
bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0942?ys=2026RS |
| BillText | https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/2026RS/bills/hb/hb0942f.pdf |
Loading...