MarylandHB 13892026 Regular SessionHouseWALLET

Public Health - Female Genital Mutilation

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

5 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.

License loss for FGM convictions

Starting October 1, 2026, if a licensed health professional is convicted, pleads guilty or nolo contendere, or gets probation before judgment for an FGM offense, their board must revoke the license. This ends the person’s ability to practice in Maryland.

Right to sue for FGM harm

Beginning October 1, 2026, an FGM victim can sue in circuit court where the harm happened or where they live. Courts can award actual, compensatory, and punitive damages, attorney’s fees, court costs, and expert fees, plus other relief. You must file by the later of 10 years after the violation or when the victim turns 28.

FGM labeled child abuse; mandatory reports

The law treats FGM as child abuse under Family Law. Starting October 1, 2026, health workers, police, teachers, and human service workers must report suspected child abuse. Make an oral report as soon as possible and a written report within 48 hours to the local department, with a copy to the local State’s Attorney. Staff at hospitals, schools, and similar places must also tell the head of their institution right away.

Stronger criminal penalties for FGM on minors

Beginning October 1, 2026, it is a crime to perform, try to perform, or plan FGM on anyone under 18. It is also illegal to take a minor out of Maryland for FGM. A parent or guardian who knowingly consents is guilty too. Penalties are a felony, up to 10 years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine. Medically necessary surgery by a licensed practitioner is allowed, but cultural or ritual reasons do not count.

Public reports and education on FGM

Starting October 1, 2026, the Health Department develops and shares culturally and linguistically appropriate FGM education materials with providers, police, schools, and the public. Beginning in 2027, by December 1 each year, the Department publishes a public report with de-identified data on FGM reports, prosecutions, convictions, civil cases, and judgments.

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Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Dana Jones
Democratic • House

Cosponsors

Jackie Addison
Democratic • House
Adrian Boafo
Democratic • House
Jessica Feldmark
Democratic • House
Linda Foley
Democratic • House
Catherine M. Forbes
Democratic • House
Guy Guzzone
Democratic • Senate
Terri L. Hill
Democratic • House
Anne R. Kaiser
Democratic • House
Mary A. Lehman
Democratic • House
Lesley J. Lopez
Democratic • House
Aletheia McCaskill
Democratic • House
Julie Palakovich Carr
Democratic • House
N. Scott Phillips
Democratic • House
Malcolm P. Ruff
Democratic • House
Emily Shetty
Democratic • House
William C. Smith
Democratic • Senate
Jared Solomon
Democratic • House
Ryan Spiegel
Democratic • House
Vaughn Stewart
Democratic • House
Deni Taveras
Democratic • House
Jen Terrasa
Democratic • House
Karen Toles
Democratic • House
Ron Watson
Democratic • Senate
Jheanelle K. Wilkins
Democratic • House
Nicole A. Williams
Democratic • House
Sarah Wolek
Democratic • House
Jamila J. Woods
Democratic • House
Natalie Ziegler
Democratic • House

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 179 • No: 0

Senate vote • 4/6/2026

Third Reading Passed

Yes: 46 • No: 0 • Other: 1

House vote • 3/18/2026

Third Reading Passed

Yes: 133 • No: 0 • Other: 5

Actions Timeline

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 29
4/14/2026
Returned Passed
4/7/2026House
Third Reading Passed (46-0)
4/6/2026Senate
Favorable Adopted Second Reading Passed
3/31/2026Senate
Favorable Report by Finance
3/30/2026Senate
Referred Finance
3/19/2026Senate
Third Reading Passed (133-0)
3/18/2026House
Favorable Adopted Second Reading Passed
3/18/2026House
Favorable Report by Judiciary
3/18/2026House
Hearing 3/10 at 1:00 p.m.
2/16/2026House
First Reading Judiciary
2/13/2026House

Bill Text

Enacted
4/14/2026
PDF
Third Reading
3/18/2026
PDF
First Reading
2/13/2026
PDF

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