MD HB513

Expands the definition of "sexual orientation" in hate crime statutes from specific categories (homosexuality, heterosexuality, bisexuality) to an individual's identity or perceived identity in relation to the gender(s) to which they are sexually or emotionally attracted

Clarifies that "sexual orientation" does not include gender identity, which is defined separately under existing law

Creates a new legal definition of "hate bias incident" as an act of hostility or aggression motivated by a victim's protected class status that does not rise to the level of a crime under state or federal law

Specifies that hate bias incidents include slurs, name-calling, displaying offensive symbols on private property, posting threatening materials, and electronic/online distribution of hateful content targeting protected classes

Requires the Department of State Police to collect and analyze information on both hate crimes and hate bias incidents, with quarterly reports to the Commission on Civil Rights; effective October 1, 2026