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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.

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

All Roll Calls

Yes: 165 • No: 0

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

  1. Approved by the Governor - Chapter 28

    4/14/2026

  2. Returned Passed

    4/6/2026Senate

  3. Third Reading Passed (120-0)

    4/3/2026House

  4. Favorable Adopted Second Reading Passed

    4/2/2026House

  5. Favorable Report by Judiciary

    4/2/2026House

  6. Referred Judiciary

    3/20/2026House

  7. Third Reading Passed (45-0)

    3/19/2026Senate

  8. Second Reading Passed with Amendments

    3/17/2026Senate

  9. Favorable with Amendments {163326/1 Adopted

    3/17/2026Senate

  10. Favorable with Amendments Report by Finance

    3/16/2026Senate

  11. Hearing 3/10 at 1:00 p.m.

    2/12/2026Senate

  12. First Reading Finance

    2/6/2026Senate

Bill Text

  • Enacted

    4/14/2026

    PDF

  • Third Reading

    3/17/2026

    PDF

  • First Reading

    2/6/2026

    PDF

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