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HB 982

Gun Theft Felony Act of 2025

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Chris Adams and 46 co-sponsors

Maryland bill establishes firearm theft as a felony crime, increasing penalties and creating specific charging statute for stolen guns.

Hearing 3/05 at 3:00 p.m.
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 982

Legislative bill overview

HB 982 would make the theft of a firearm a felony offense in Maryland, establishing criminal penalties for stealing guns from licensed dealers, private owners, or other sources. The bill aims to create a specific statutory crime addressing gun theft rather than prosecuting such incidents under general theft laws.

Why is this important

Gun theft is a significant source of firearms used in crimes, with thousands of guns stolen annually from residences and dealers. Creating a dedicated felony statute potentially increases penalties, provides law enforcement with a specific charging tool, and may serve as a deterrent. This approach reflects a policy choice to treat firearm theft as categorically more serious than other property theft.

Potential points of contention

  • Severity and proportionality: Critics may argue that making all gun theft a felony (regardless of circumstances or gun value) is disproportionate compared to theft of other property of similar monetary value
  • Prosecutorial discretion: Questions about whether a dedicated felony creates charging disparities or removes flexibility for lesser offenses in marginal cases
  • Effectiveness debate: Disagreement over whether felony designation meaningfully reduces gun theft versus addressing root causes like storage standards or security requirements for dealers

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

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