MD HB1586

Adds "coercive control" as a form of abuse under Maryland Family Law for which adult victims can petition for a protective order

Defines coercive control as a pattern of emotional or psychological manipulation, maltreatment, threat of force, or intimidation used to compel someone to act against their will

Specific behaviors qualifying as coercive control include: isolating victims from support networks, depriving them of basic necessities, controlling their movements/communications/finances, using immigration status as a threat, and controlling reproductive autonomy

Amends Section 4-501 of the Family Law Article to add coercive control to the existing list of abuse types (which includes bodily harm, assault, rape, false imprisonment, stalking, and revenge porn)

Effective date: October 1, 2026