Technology

HB 145 requires Maryland's State Administrator of Elections to act on credible reports of election misinformation (false information about voting) or disinformation (knowingly misleading information) by providing corrective information, requesting removal from online platforms, and seeking records via subpoena. It prohibits knowingly using AI-generated deepfakes (manipulated videos/audio) to mislead voters about voting rights, election results, or registration, with violations punishable as misdemeanors carrying up to $5,000 fines or 5 years in jail. The law exempts satire, news coverage (like interviews or documentaries), and media outlets that clearly label deceptive content. It directly affects voters seeking accurate election information, election officials managing reports, and content creators distributing election-related material. The bill takes effect June 1, 2026.

HB 195 requires Maryland's State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission to study emerging technologies to improve safety and transparency in gambling. Specifically, it mandates the Commission analyze security tools (like encryption and blockchain), monitor customer behavior for responsible gaming, and verify age/identity to prevent fraud. The bill also obligates the Commission to collaborate with Maryland colleges, foundations, or private entities for these studies and requires the Commission Director to participate in them. This law updates reporting requirements for the Commission to detail lottery revenues, expenses, and any needed legal changes. It directly affects the Commission's operations and the state's gambling regulatory framework, without altering existing gambling laws.

HB 295 prohibits operating, conducting, or promoting "interactive games" (internet/mobile games simulating casino games, lotteries, or sports betting) in Maryland. It requires license applicants and holders to annually report business relationships with entities supporting such games and disclose any revenue from jurisdictions where interactive gaming is illegal. The bill bars the State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission from issuing licenses to entities accepting revenue from high-risk jurisdictions (e.g., terrorism sponsors or Financial Action Task Force "call for action" areas). This directly affects gaming license applicants, current licensees, and businesses operating in or connected to illegal gaming markets. The law aims to prevent Maryland-based operations from engaging with unregulated or prohibited gaming activities.

HB 172 allows Maryland municipalities to authorize code, parking, and traffic enforcement officers to use body-worn cameras during their duties. It expands the legal definition of "law enforcement officer" to include these municipal officers for camera use, requiring cities to adopt policies that align with state standards for body-worn camera use. The bill mandates that municipalities publishing such policies must follow guidelines similar to those for police body cameras, including notifying individuals when recording is occurring. The law takes effect October 1, 2026, and does not require municipalities to implement the policy.

HB 952 requires operators of "companion chatbots" (AI systems designed to meet social needs through human-like interactions) to establish safety protocols, including preventing harmful content like self-harm discussions and sexually explicit material for minors. Operators must publish these protocols online, display clear warnings that chatbots are AI (not human), and provide crisis resource referrals for users expressing suicidal thoughts. The bill also mandates that operators of chatbots used by minors display mandatory break reminders after 3 hours of continuous use. It excludes business customer service bots, video game features, and basic voice assistants from these requirements.