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HB 154

Criminal Law - Fraud - Possession of Residential Real Property

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Frank Conaway

HB 154 enhances Maryland criminal penalties for fraud involving possession of residential real property to combat housing fraud schemes.

Hearing 1/21 at 1:00 p.m.
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 154

Legislative bill overview

HB 154 modifies Maryland's criminal fraud laws specifically regarding possession of residential real property. The bill appears to create or adjust criminal penalties related to fraudulent acquisition, transfer, or possession of residential homes. Exact provisions require reviewing the full text, but the focus on residential property fraud suggests it addresses concerns about property title fraud, foreclosure fraud, or unauthorized possession schemes.

Why is this important

Residential property fraud has caused significant financial harm to Maryland homeowners and has been used in organized schemes targeting vulnerable populations. Clarifying and strengthening fraud statutes related to real property can improve prosecution of complex fraud cases and provide better legal protections for homeowners. This has real consequences for property rights, mortgage markets, and consumer confidence in real estate transactions.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition scope: Determining what constitutes fraudulent "possession" versus legitimate property disputes or contested ownership claims could be legally complex and contentious
  • Penalty severity: Disagreement may arise over appropriate criminal penalties—whether enhancements are proportionate or could criminalize civil disputes
  • Enforcement burden: Critics may question whether law enforcement and prosecutors have resources to investigate and pursue these cases, or whether the bill creates unfunded mandates

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

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