MD HB260

Reduces penalties for repeat drug paraphernalia offenses from up to 2 years imprisonment and $2,000 fine to up to 1 year imprisonment and $1,000 fine

Significantly reduces penalties for controlled paraphernalia violations from up to 4 years imprisonment and $25,000 fine to up to 1 year and $1,000 for subsequent offenses, with first violations now capped at a $500 fine

Removes "possess" from the prohibition on controlled paraphernalia, making only distribution (not possession) a criminal offense when intent to illegally administer a controlled substance is indicated

Removes "administer" from the list of intents used as evidence of illegal controlled paraphernalia use, narrowing the scope to manufacturing, distributing, or dispensing

Takes effect October 1, 2025; approved by Governor Wes Moore on April 22, 2025