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HB 202

Criminal Law - Fraud - Conveyance, Lease, or Possession of Residential Real Property

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Ryan Nawrocki

Maryland bill criminalizes residential property fraud with enhanced penalties for deceptive conveyances, leases, or possessions of homes.

Hearing 1/21 at 1:00 p.m.
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 202

Legislative bill overview

HB 202 creates new criminal penalties in Maryland law specifically targeting fraud related to the conveyance, lease, or possession of residential real property. The bill establishes enhanced criminal consequences for individuals who fraudulently obtain, transfer, or occupy residential properties through deceptive means.

Why is this important

Residential real property fraud—including deed fraud, title theft, and fraudulent leasing schemes—has increased significantly in recent years, causing substantial financial and emotional harm to homeowners and legitimate property buyers. This legislation aims to create a dedicated legal framework that recognizes the severity of these crimes and provides prosecutors with targeted tools to combat property-related fraud schemes.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope and definition clarity: Without seeing the full text, the precise definitions of what constitutes "fraud" in property transactions may be broad enough to inadvertently catch legitimate disputes over property rights or contractual disagreements
  • Sentencing levels: Questions may arise about whether the penalties are proportionate to other fraud crimes in Maryland law and whether they might result in excessive incarceration for certain offenders
  • Implementation burden: Law enforcement and prosecutors will need training and resources to investigate and prosecute these specialized property crimes, raising concerns about cost and capacity

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

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