Criminal Law - Display of Obscene Material to Minors

HB 710 amends Maryland's criminal law to clarify and strengthen prohibitions against displaying obscene material to minors. It defines "obscene" material as content that appeals to prurient interest, depicts illicit sexual acts in a patently offensive way, and lacks serious value, and specifies that "item" includes books, videos, magazines, and digital media. The bill directly restricts public schools, newsstands, and businesses frequented by minors from openly displaying such material on their premises, with school principals or managers held accountable. Violations are misdemeanors punishable by up to 1 year in jail or $1,000 for a first offense, increasing to 3 years or $5,000 for subsequent offenses. The law aims to protect minors by targeting specific displays of prohibited material in settings where they are present.