WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 1361

Criminal Law - Controlled Dangerous Substances and Criminal Organizations

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Sandy Rosenberg

Maryland HB 1361 modifies criminal penalties and definitions for drug offenses and organized crime; hearing scheduled for March 10, 2026.

Hearing 3/10 at 1:00 p.m.
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1361

Legislative bill overview

HB 1361 proposes amendments to Maryland's criminal law regarding controlled dangerous substances and criminal organizations. The bill's specific provisions modify penalties, definitions, or enforcement mechanisms related to drug crimes and organized criminal activity. Without access to the full text, the precise nature of these changes cannot be detailed here.

Why is this important

Drug-related offenses and criminal organization prosecutions represent significant portions of Maryland's criminal justice system. Changes to these statutes directly affect sentencing guidelines, law enforcement priorities, and the lives of thousands of individuals and communities affected by substance abuse and organized crime.

Potential points of contention

  • Sentencing severity: Whether proposed penalties represent appropriate deterrence or represent excessive punishment that disproportionately affects certain communities
  • Prosecutorial discretion: How changes define or limit authority in charging decisions and plea negotiations
  • Definition of "criminal organization": Whether the legal threshold is precise enough to avoid overreach while capturing genuine organized criminal enterprises

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.