Wiretapping and Electronic Surveillance - Authorized Interception of Oral Communications - Cellular Telephones and Security Cameras

SB 61 modifies Maryland's wiretapping law to clarify that intercepting oral communications is lawful under two specific conditions. First, it permits using a phone or device to record public conversations if the speaker reasonably expects being overheard. Second, it allows property owners or lessees to use security cameras on their premises to capture oral communications occurring there. The bill does not change general prohibitions against unauthorized interception but adds these explicit exceptions to existing law (Maryland Code, Courts and Judicial Proceedings § 10-402(c)(12)-(13)). It takes effect October 1, 2025.