Public Health - Female Genital Mutilation

Summary

The bill expands Maryland’s definition of child abuse to include female genital mutilation (FGM) and requires doctors, police, teachers and other professionals to report any suspected case. It makes performing, attempting, or helping a minor under 18 undergo FGM a criminal offense with higher penalties and possible loss of professional licenses. The law also lets victims sue civilly and orders the health department to create and distribute educational materials about FGM.

AI-generated summary — may be incomplete or inaccurate. Verify against the official bill text.

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