Intercepted Communications - Statute of Limitations and Penalties

HB 706 reclassifies the offense of intercepting or disclosing wire, oral, or electronic communications from a felony to a misdemeanor under Maryland law. It extends the statute of limitations for prosecuting such violations from one year to five years (via new Section 5-106(jj)) and ensures victims can receive full restitution without limitation (per amended Section 10-402(b)(2)). The bill directly affects individuals who illegally intercept or share communications, and it modifies existing penalties and legal procedures for these offenses. The changes take effect October 1, 2025.