New laws taking effect in Maryland will crack down on sex offenders, gang members, health care fraud and distracted drivers.
The most serious sex offenders in Maryland now face stiffer penalties, including lifetime supervision and a mandatory 15-year prison sentence — depending on the degree of the offense.
A new law also brings Maryland in line with the federal Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, which helps track sex offenders who declare homelessness or move across state lines. The measure was passed in response to the December slaying of 11-year-old Sarah Foxwell, whose attacker was registered as an offender in Delaware and Maryland.
The federal standards establish three tiers of offenders in Maryland, with the third tier being the most violent. Tier One offenders must register every six months for 15 years, Tier Two must register every six months for 25 years, and Tier Three must register every three months for life.
The measures also require more information from sexual offenders — from Social Security numbers to passport information.
Gang members are now subject to stricter standards, as well, under a law making it easier for the state to identify and prosecute gangs. The measure broadens the types of crimes considered gang activity to include witness intimidation, carrying a handgun and second-degree assault. It also enables judges to order additional prison time — up to 10 years — for members who commit second offenses or engage in any crime resulting in a victim’s death.
Maryland also will find it easier to prosecute criminals in the health care system — specifically, Maryland health care providers and physicians bilking the state for extra money through false claims.
The measure allows health officials to pursue civil damages for false health claims and reap four times as much money in damages from violators.
Fraud and abuse account for 5 to 10 percent of the billions the state spends on Medicaid each year, according to Mike Raia, spokesman for Lt. Gov. Anthony Brown.
Other new laws that affect Marylanders will require drivers to go “hands-free” by trading their cell phones for a headset — or face a $100 fine — and prohibit vehicles from coming within three feet of cyclists.
