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HB 126

Criminal Law - Theft - Mail and Packages (Porch Piracy Act of 2025)

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Frank Conaway

Maryland bill establishing specific criminal penalties for theft of mail and packages from residential properties to address growing porch piracy problem.

Hearing 1/21 at 1:00 p.m.
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Bill Summary · HB 126

Legislative bill overview

HB 126 creates specific criminal penalties for theft of mail and packages from residential properties, commonly known as "porch piracy." The bill distinguishes package theft from general larceny to establish tailored legal consequences and enforcement mechanisms for this growing problem.

Why is this important

Package theft has become increasingly prevalent as online shopping grows, affecting both consumers and delivery services. Creating specific legislation allows law enforcement to better address this crime category and provides clearer legal standards for prosecution and sentencing in Maryland courts.

Potential points of contention

  • Definitional scope: Questions about what constitutes a "package" or "mail" and whether the law applies equally to all delivery methods (doorstep, mailbox, package lockers, etc.)
  • Sentencing proportionality: Debate over whether porch piracy warrants distinct criminal treatment separate from general theft, or if existing larceny statutes adequately address the issue
  • Enforcement practicality: Concerns about police resources needed to investigate package thefts versus more serious crimes, and whether this creates unfunded mandates on local law enforcement

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

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