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HB 692

Criminal Law - Mail and Package Theft (Porch Piracy Act)

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Derrick Coley and 3 co-sponsors

Maryland bill creates enhanced criminal penalties for stealing packages and mail from residential properties to combat growing porch theft.

Hearing 2/17 at 1:00 p.m.
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 692

Legislative bill overview

HB 692, known as the Porch Piracy Act, addresses the growing problem of package theft from residential properties in Maryland. The bill would create or enhance criminal penalties specifically targeting individuals who steal mail and packages left on doorsteps, porches, or other delivery points at private residences.

Why is this important

Package theft has become a widespread problem affecting Maryland residents, particularly during peak shopping seasons. Clear criminal statutes with defined penalties would provide law enforcement with better tools to prosecute offenders and potentially deter this form of property crime, which currently costs consumers and retailers billions annually nationwide.

Potential points of contention

  • Penalty severity: Debate over whether penalties are proportionate to the offense or whether they conflict with existing theft statutes based on property value
  • Enforcement feasibility: Questions about how effectively police can investigate and prosecute porch theft cases, which often lack clear video evidence or suspect identification
  • Definitional scope: Uncertainty about whether the law covers all delivery types (Amazon, UPS, FedEx, USPS) and whether it applies equally to commercial versus residential theft
  • Alternative solutions: Some may argue resources should prioritize requiring signature confirmation, secure delivery boxes, or carrier accountability rather than criminal expansion

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

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