“A stronger deterrent is needed for those homeowners who maliciously damage their own property during or after a foreclosure proceeding,” read the statement of the Maryland Association of Realtors in support of legislation that would make such conduct a criminal misdemeanor.
“Human trafficking is a form of modern day slavery,” declared the written testimony of the Maryland Coalition Against Sexual Assault in favor of bills that would increase the penalty for sexual solicitation or trafficking of a minor.
Favorable committee action a certainty. How could anyone oppose these measures?
Perhaps you’ve forgotten the question that every bill sponsor must answer:
Why do we need this bill?
On the Judiciary Committee, that means: Is this conduct already illegal? Why aren’t people being prosecuted and serving the maximum sentence under the existing law? Will increasing the penalty reduce the crime?
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One witness said that another bill before us would criminalize fraternity pranks.
“Is the penalty double secret probation?” I asked my seatmate.
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You should ask yourself these same questions in regards to HB 820, The firearms owners "Papers Please, Scarlett Letter" act of 2010.
ReplyDeleteI remember another time in history when people were forced to wear a mark, and firearms ownership was restricted. You should be the last person to want to head down that road. Those that cannot remeber history are doomed to repeat it.