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MarylandSB 00822026 Regular SessionSenate

Criminal Law - Counterfeiting and Possession of Counterfeit Lease of Real Property - Penalty

Sponsored By: Ron Watson (Democratic)

Signed by Governor

Criminal Law - Substantive CrimesForgeryFraud -see also- ForgeryLeases and RentPenalties and Sentences -see also- Death PenaltyReal Property

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

1 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.

Penalties for fake leases and rentals

Beginning October 1, 2026, Maryland treats fake real estate leases and rental agreements as crimes. Making or helping make a fake lease with intent to defraud is a felony, punishable by up to 10 years in prison, a $1,000 fine, or both. Knowingly, willfully possessing a fake lease or rental agreement with fraudulent intent is a misdemeanor, punishable by up to 3 years in prison, a $1,000 fine, or both. Cases may be brought in any county where an element happened; where the document is recorded or filed; where the victim lives; or where a business victim operates, despite other venue rules. The law targets rental fraud to protect renters and landlords.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

  • Ron Watson

    Democratic • Senate

Cosponsors

  • Jack Bailey

    Republican • Senate

  • Benjamin Brooks

    Democratic • Senate

  • Nick Charles

    Democratic • Senate

  • Dawn Gile

    Democratic • Senate

  • Guy Guzzone

    Democratic • Senate

  • Mike McKay

    Republican • Senate

  • Justin Ready

    Republican • Senate

  • Johnny Ray Salling

    Republican • Senate

  • Chris West

    Republican • Senate

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 156 • No: 5

House vote • 4/3/2026

Third Reading Passed

Yes: 119 • No: 0 • Other: 9

Senate vote • 2/19/2026

Third Reading Passed

Yes: 37 • No: 5

Actions Timeline

  1. Approved by the Governor - Chapter 550

    5/12/2026

  2. Returned Passed

    4/6/2026Senate

  3. Third Reading Passed (119-0)

    4/3/2026House

  4. Favorable Adopted Second Reading Passed

    4/2/2026House

  5. Favorable Report by Judiciary

    4/2/2026House

  6. Referred Judiciary

    2/20/2026House

  7. Third Reading Passed (37-5)

    2/19/2026Senate

  8. Second Reading Passed with Amendments

    2/17/2026Senate

  9. Favorable with Amendments {193821/1 Adopted

    2/17/2026Senate

  10. Favorable with Amendments Report by Judicial Proceedings

    2/16/2026Senate

  11. First Reading Judicial Proceedings

    1/14/2026Senate

  12. Hearing 1/27 at 1:00 p.m.

    1/13/2026Senate

  13. Pre-filed

    10/31/2025Senate

Bill Text

  • Enacted

    5/12/2026

    PDF

  • Third Reading

    2/17/2026

    PDF

  • First Reading

    1/14/2026

    PDF

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