MD HB1471

Consumers may send written notice to creditors alleging debt is identity theft debt, accompanied by supporting evidence such as police reports, FTC identity theft reports, or identity theft passports

Creditors must cease collection activity upon receiving notice and complete an investigation within 30 days; if debt is confirmed as identity theft, creditors must permanently stop collection, dismiss pending litigation, and notify credit reporting agencies

Consumers may file civil actions in circuit court after the 30-day investigation period, with the right to a jury trial; creditors are prohibited from collecting on disputed debt during pending litigation

Prevailing consumers are entitled to damages, court costs, and attorney's fees; double damages are available if the creditor knowingly failed to comply with investigation requirements

A rebuttable presumption that debt is identity theft debt applies when someone is convicted or receives probation before judgment for identity theft under Criminal Law § 8-301; the Act takes effect October 1, 2026