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HB 824

Criminal Procedure - Expungement - Conviction of Distribution of Controlled Dangerous Substance

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jackie Addison and 3 co-sponsors

Maryland HB 824 would expand criminal record expungement eligibility for people convicted of distributing controlled substances, improving employment and housing prospects while potentially limiting public access to drug distribution conviction histories.

Hearing 3/03 at 1:00 p.m.
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Bill Summary · HB 824

Legislative bill overview

HB 824 would modify Maryland's criminal procedure laws to allow expungement (legal erasure from records) of convictions for distributing controlled dangerous substances under certain circumstances. The bill expands eligibility criteria for individuals seeking to clear drug distribution convictions from their criminal records, potentially allowing more people to have these convictions removed after meeting specified conditions.

Why is this important

Expungement eligibility directly affects employment, housing, licensing, and educational opportunities for individuals with drug convictions. Expanding access to expungement could improve reintegration prospects for formerly incarcerated individuals while raising questions about public safety records retention and victims' rights considerations. This reflects ongoing policy debates about criminal justice reform and second chances versus community protection.

Potential points of contention

  • Public safety concerns: Removing distribution convictions from public records may limit employers' and landlords' ability to assess risk, particularly for positions involving vulnerable populations or drug-adjacent work environments
  • Victims' considerations: Drug distribution often harms communities and individuals; some victims' advocates argue permanent records serve legitimate accountability purposes
  • Scope specificity: The bill's exact eligibility requirements (waiting periods, offense amounts, prior records) will determine whether it applies narrowly or broadly, affecting political support

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

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