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SB 1009

Criminal Law - Drug Paraphernalia - Prohibitions and Penalties

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Anthony Muse

SB 1009 increases criminal penalties for selling and possessing drug paraphernalia in Maryland, potentially affecting retailers and individuals with substance use disorders.

First Reading Senate Rules
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Bill Summary · SB 1009

Legislative bill overview

SB 1009 modifies Maryland's criminal law regarding drug paraphernalia by establishing new prohibitions and penalties. The bill specifically targets the sale, distribution, and possession of items used to consume or produce controlled substances. This represents an update to existing paraphernalia statutes with revised enforcement mechanisms.

Why is this important

Drug paraphernalia laws directly impact law enforcement practices, retail businesses, and individuals with substance use disorders. Changes to these statutes affect what products can legally be sold, how arrests are prosecuted, and sentencing outcomes—influencing both public health approaches and criminal justice outcomes in communities.

Potential points of contention

  • Harm reduction vs. enforcement: Whether stricter paraphernalia laws conflict with public health strategies like needle exchange programs that reduce disease transmission
  • Retail impact: Potential unintended consequences for legitimate businesses (tobacco shops, convenience stores) that may inadvertently sell items meeting the definition of drug paraphernalia
  • Sentencing proportionality: Questions about whether penalties for paraphernalia possession/sale are appropriately calibrated relative to other drug offenses, particularly regarding disparate impacts on lower-income communities

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

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