MD HB171

Expands the definition of "drug trafficking crime" to include misdemeanors involving cannabis possession with intent to distribute (§ 5-602(b)(1)) and cannabis cultivation/manufacturing (§ 5-603(b)), in addition to the existing felony offenses

Applies to prohibitions against possessing, using, wearing, carrying, or transporting a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime

Maintains existing penalties for firearm violations during drug trafficking: 5-20 years imprisonment for first offense, 10-20 years for subsequent offenses, with mandatory minimum sentences that cannot be suspended

Effective date: October 1, 2026