Criminal Law - Theft and Fraud Crimes - Valuation and Forgery of Gift Cards

HB 752 modifies Maryland law to clarify how gift card theft and fraud are treated. It defines "closed-loop" (store-specific) and "open-loop" (network-branded) gift cards and sets a new standard for determining their value in theft cases: the highest of the face value, the defendant’s claimed value, or the actual loss incurred. The bill also prohibits altering or tampering with gift cards or packaging with intent to defraud, creating a misdemeanor punishable by up to 18 months in jail or a $500 fine. This directly affects individuals committing gift card theft or forgery and law enforcement prosecuting such offenses. The changes take effect October 1, 2026.