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Bill

SB 105

Real Time for Violent Crime Act (Geri's Law)

2026 Regular Session Introduced by William Folden and 1 co-sponsor

Maryland bill restricts parole eligibility for violent crime convictions to increase time served before release consideration.

First Reading Judicial Proceedings
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Bill Summary · SB 105

Legislative bill overview

SB 105, known as "Geri's Law," would modify Maryland's sentencing requirements for violent crimes, likely by limiting or eliminating parole eligibility for individuals convicted of specified violent offenses. The bill appears designed to ensure convicted violent offenders serve substantial portions of their sentences before potential release consideration.

Why is this important

Violent crime sentencing policy directly affects public safety perceptions, victim protections, and the scale of Maryland's incarcerated population. Changes to parole eligibility significantly impact both criminal justice system operations and the lived experiences of incarcerated individuals and their families, making this a consequential policy decision with long-term budgetary and social implications.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition scope: Disagreement over which crimes qualify as "violent" and whether the definition is appropriately calibrated or overly broad
  • Parole elimination debate: Tension between public safety advocates favoring longer incarceration and criminal justice reformers concerned about rehabilitation opportunity and recidivism rates
  • Correctional costs: Fiscal impact of potentially extended incarceration periods on state prison budgets and facility capacity

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

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