As we step into 2026, we are energized by the opportunities ahead and deeply committed to continuing our work on behalf of crime victims across Maryland. A new year brings renewed purpose — and this legislative session is no exception.
The Maryland General Assembly convened on January 14, 2026, and the session will run through April 13, 2026. During this time, lawmakers will consider a wide range of bills that directly affect victims’ rights, access to justice, and the overall functioning of our criminal justice system.
Throughout the 2026 Legislative Session, MCVRC will remain focused on legislation that ensures victims have a meaningful voice, are treated with dignity and respect, and are supported at every stage of the process. Hearings are already being scheduled on bills that impact crime victims, and as priority legislation moves forward, we will keep you informed and let you know when your engagement can make a difference.
Your voice is powerful. When called upon, we ask you to stand with victims, share your perspective, and help advance justice across Maryland. Together, we can shape policies that reflect the needs, experiences, and rights of those most impacted by crime.
We are grateful to have you with us as we move into this important year—and we look forward to all that we will accomplish together.
Joanna D. Mupanduki
Deputy Director
Maryland Crime Victims' Resource Center, Inc.
The MCVRC is alerting its members and supporters about SB 162 which is scheduled for a hearing Tuesday, Jan. 27 at 1 p.m. before the Senate Judiciary Committee (both in person or online).
This legislation would significantly expand Juvenile Restoration Act (JRA) modification hearings.
What current law allows:
What SB0162 would change
This bill would extend those same three hearings to all individuals who were under 18 at the time of the offense and have served 20 years, regardless of when they were sentenced — not just those sentenced before October 2021.
Despite other recent changes in the law already requiring courts to consider a defendant’s youth at sentencing, this bill would force victims and their families to repeatedly relive trauma through multiple hearings, even in cases where the offender’s age, maturity, and mental condition were already fully considered by the sentencing judge after hearing detailed evidence.
Please note you do not need to sign up to attend the hearing. Attendance matters. Showing up in person sends a strong message of opposition. Please attend and help us show up in force.
