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HB 750

Criminal Law - Obstruction or Interference With Exercise of Religious Beliefs - Prohibition

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jon Cardin and 5 co-sponsors

Maryland HB 750 criminalizes intentionally obstructing access to or departure from religious facilities, protecting worshippers while raising First Amendment protest and expression concerns.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 424
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Bill Summary · HB 750

Legislative bill overview

HB 750 prohibits individuals from intentionally interfering with access to or egress from religious facilities in Maryland. The bill creates criminal penalties for actions that obstruct people entering or leaving places of worship, addressing concerns about disruptions at religious gatherings and institutions.

Why is this important

Religious facilities have experienced increased disruptions and protests in recent years. This legislation aims to protect worshippers' ability to freely practice their faith without interference while also protecting the institutions themselves from obstruction. The bill balances public safety with First Amendment considerations regarding protest and assembly rights.

Potential points of contention

  • First Amendment boundaries: The bill's definition of "interference" could conflict with protected speech and protest rights; determining where legitimate peaceful protest ends and illegal interference begins may be legally challenging
  • Scope and enforcement: Unclear how broadly "interference" is defined—does it include verbal protest, physical barriers, noise, or only physical obstruction that prevents actual entry/exit?
  • Selective protection: Some may argue that singling out religious facilities for this protection differs from similar protections for other institutions, raising equal protection questions
  • Implementation concerns: Law enforcement interpretation of violations could vary; risk of selective enforcement or suppression of legitimate activism

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

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