Panel approves ban on in‑person solicitation of disaster victims for 48 hours; members debate impacts on genuine helpers

The Economic Matters Committee voted to move House Bill 1348 as amended, a measure that prohibits a contractor or a person acting on a contractor’s behalf from soliciting or attempting to solicit a disaster victim in person within 48 hours after the disaster and within 500 feet of the incident or the victim’s property. The packeted amendments add a five‑day right of rescission, require notice of the rescission right, limit penalties an owner might owe after rescission and alter definitions to align with the Maryland Home Improvement Commission.

Sponsor and supporters said the bill targets predatory actors who approach victims while they are vulnerable. “We don't want that. There's no reason you should be approaching someone while their house is on fire and they're…