Criminal Law - Gift Card Crimes

HB 1074 creates new criminal offenses related to gift card misuse in Maryland. It prohibits taking or receiving a gift card without consent (with intent to use/sell), keeping a lost/mislaid gift card to use/sell, selling or buying gift cards from unauthorized sellers, and falsely making or transferring gift cards. The law specifically defines "gift card" to include physical, digital, and code-based cards (e.g., prepaid balances on paper, plastic, or digital devices), excluding credit cards and paper checks. Violations involving gift cards under $100 are classified as misdemeanors, punishable by up to 90 days in jail or a $500 fine. This bill directly affects individuals who handle or transfer gift cards, including those who find or purchase them.