MD SB616

Expands the definition of "permanent cemetery" to include cemeteries owned by families or religious organizations, in addition to those owned by regulated cemetery companies, nonprofits, or the State

Elevates violations involving human remains, pet remains, and cemetery property from misdemeanors to felonies, with first offenses punishable by 5-10 years imprisonment and/or minimum $20,000 fine, and subsequent offenses by 10-15 years and/or minimum $30,000 fine

Prohibits tampering with, damaging, desecrating, mutilating, storing, trafficking, or transporting human remains or pet remains without authorization, and bans removal of pet remains from cemeteries without owner permission

Authorizes state departments to deny or revoke occupational licenses for individuals convicted of these offenses, and excludes such convictions from the 7-year "clean slate" provision for occupational licensing

Creates a civil cause of action allowing family members or descendants to sue for economic and noneconomic damages plus attorney's fees for violations; effective date October 1, 2025