SB211/HB193 will amend Maryland’s Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) statute so that all Maryland residents, regardless of their immigration status, have access to the benefit of probation.

Right now, a Maryland PBJ is considered a conviction under federal immigration law. The proposed legislation adds an additional method that would make probation accessible to all Marylanders without risk of deportation and detention for noncitizens. This proposed amendment promotes justice, fairness, and will keep Maryland families together.