MD SB407

Creates a new standalone criminal offense (§ 3-308.1) for sexual offense by a person in a position of authority, with tiered penalties: misdemeanor with up to 3 years imprisonment/$1,000 fine for basic violation; felony with up to 15 years/$25,000 fine if victim is under 13; felony with up to 25 years/$50,000 fine for repeat offenders with prior sex crime convictions

Defines "person in a position of authority" as individuals aged 21+ working at schools or aged 22+ working for youth programs (sports, tutoring, day care, scouting, camping) who supervise or interact with minors

Adds sexual offense by a person in a position of authority (§ 3-308.1) as a predicate crime for the felony of sexual solicitation of a minor under § 3-324

Modifies sex offender registry classifications: violations of § 3-308.1(B) qualify as Tier I sex offender status; violations of § 3-308.1(C) or (D) involving children under 13 or repeat offenders qualify as Tier III sex offender status

Takes effect October 1, 2026