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Bill

HB 413

Criminal Law - Controlled Dangerous Substances and Firearms

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Luke Clippinger and 1 co-sponsor

Maryland law now establishes combined sentencing guidelines for controlled substance and firearm offenses, strengthening criminal penalties for dual-category violations.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 136
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Bill Summary · HB 413

Legislative bill overview

HB 413 modifies Maryland's criminal law regarding controlled dangerous substances and firearms, establishing new sentencing guidelines or regulatory frameworks for offenses involving both categories. The bill received bipartisan sponsorship and successfully passed through the legislature before gubernatorial approval in April 2025.

Why is this important

This legislation directly impacts criminal sentencing and public safety enforcement in Maryland by clarifying how crimes involving both drug and firearm elements are prosecuted and punished. The changes affect law enforcement practices, court procedures, and potential prison sentences for affected offenders, making it significant for both criminal justice policy and community safety outcomes.

Potential points of contention

  • Enhanced sentencing concerns: If the bill increases mandatory minimums or consecutive sentencing for drug-firearm offenses, criminal justice reform advocates may argue it perpetuates mass incarceration
  • Clarity and scope ambiguity: Without specific language details, questions arise about whether the law applies to possession, distribution, or trafficking scenarios differently
  • Prosecutorial discretion: The bill may either expand or limit prosecutors' flexibility in charging decisions, affecting consistency across jurisdictions and outcomes for similarly situated defendants

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

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