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SB 512

Criminal Law - Stalking - Penalties

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Will Smith

SB 512 adjusts Maryland's criminal stalking penalties; specific changes pending February 2026 hearing before Judicial Proceedings Committee.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 429
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 512

Legislative bill overview

SB 512 modifies Maryland's stalking laws and penalties. While the bill title indicates changes to criminal stalking provisions, the specific amendments are not detailed in the information provided. The bill is currently in early legislative stages with a hearing scheduled for February 17, 2026.

Why is this important

Stalking laws directly affect public safety and individual rights to freedom from harassment and threat. Changes to stalking statutes can influence how law enforcement investigates cases, what constitutes criminal conduct, and sentencing outcomes—impacting both victims seeking protection and defendants facing charges.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of conduct definition: Disagreement may exist over what behaviors should legally constitute stalking versus protected speech or coincidental contact
  • Penalty severity: Stakeholders could dispute whether proposed penalties are proportionate—victim advocates may seek enhanced penalties while criminal justice reform advocates may oppose increases
  • Evidentiary standards: Questions may arise about how much evidence or pattern of behavior should be required to prove stalking, affecting prosecution difficulty and false accusation concerns

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

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