All Roll Calls
Yes: 165 • No: 0
MarylandSB 09072026 Regular SessionSenateWALLET
Public Health - Female Genital Mutilation
Sponsored By: Sara Love (Democratic)
Signed by Governor
Public HealthFamily LawCivil Actions and ProceduresAttorneys' FeesAwareness and OutreachChild Abuse and NeglectCircuit CourtsCivil Actions -see also- Small ClaimsCommittees and CommissionsCounties -see also- Chartered Counties; Code Counties; etc.Crimes and Punishments -see also- Penalties and Sentnc; etc.DamagesHealth -see also- COVID19; EnvHlth; MedCon; etc.Health, Department ofHealth Occupations -see also- (specific health occupations)InjuryLicenses -see also- AB Lic; Certifications; DrLic; PermitsNoticesPenalties and Sentences -see also- Death PenaltyPleasPrivacyPublic InformationReportsSexual OffensesStatutes of LimitationVictims -see also- Criminal Injuries CompensationWomen -see also- GenderYouth (10-21) -see also- Minors
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Bill Overview
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 1 costs, 1 mixed.
Victims can sue for FGM damages
A victim can sue in circuit court where the violation happened or where the victim lives. Courts may award actual and punitive damages, attorney’s fees, court costs, and expert fees. File within 10 years of the violation or by age 28, whichever is later. This right begins October 1, 2026.
FGM conviction costs health license
If a licensed health worker is convicted, pleads guilty or no contest, or gets probation before judgment for FGM, the health board revokes the worker’s license. This rule takes effect October 1, 2026.
FGM is child abuse in Maryland
The law treats female genital mutilation of a child as child abuse. Cases enter the state child-protection system for investigation and protective steps. This change takes effect October 1, 2026.
FGM of minors is a crime
The law makes female genital mutilation (FGM) of anyone under 18 a crime. Transporting a minor out of state for FGM is also a crime, and a parent or guardian who knowingly consents is guilty. Courts can impose up to 10 years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines. A surgery that is medically necessary and done by a licensed Maryland medical practitioner is allowed. The law defines FGM, including clitoridectomy, excision, and infibulation. These rules take effect October 1, 2026.
State will share FGM education
The Health Department develops and shares plain-language FGM materials with doctors, police, schools, and the public. Materials explain signs, health risks, and penalties. Work begins October 1, 2026.
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Sponsors & Cosponsors
Sponsor
Sara Love
Democratic • Senate
Cosponsors
Mary Washington
Democratic • Senate
Pamela Beidle
Democratic • Senate
Dawn Gile
Democratic • Senate
Antonio Hayes
Democratic • Senate
Stephen S. Hershey
Senate
Carl Jackson
Democratic • Senate
Benjamin F. Kramer
Democratic • Senate
Clarence K. Lam
Democratic • Senate
Johnny Mautz
Republican • Senate
Justin Ready
Senate
Roll Call Votes
House vote • 4/3/2026
Third Reading Passed
Yes: 120 • No: 0 • Other: 13
Senate vote • 3/19/2026
Third Reading Passed
Yes: 45 • No: 0 • Other: 2
Actions Timeline
Approved by the Governor - Chapter 28
4/14/2026Returned Passed
4/6/2026SenateThird Reading Passed (120-0)
4/3/2026HouseFavorable Adopted Second Reading Passed
4/2/2026HouseFavorable Report by Judiciary
4/2/2026HouseReferred Judiciary
3/20/2026HouseThird Reading Passed (45-0)
3/19/2026SenateSecond Reading Passed with Amendments
3/17/2026SenateFavorable with Amendments {163326/1 Adopted
3/17/2026SenateFavorable with Amendments Report by Finance
3/16/2026SenateHearing 3/10 at 1:00 p.m.
2/12/2026SenateFirst Reading Finance
2/6/2026Senate
Bill Text
Enacted
4/14/2026
Third Reading
3/17/2026
First Reading
2/6/2026
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