Posted on 01/29/23
| News Source: FOX45
More support is showing up for Baltimore City State’s Attorney Ivan Bates’ legislation looking to implement tougher penalties for certain gun crimes as bipartisan cosponsors move the proposal forward.
Currently, the maximum penalty for misdemeanor illegal gun possession is three years for offenders 21-years-old and older, but five years for those between 18 and 20 years old.
State’s Attorney Bates wants to level the playing field and raise the maximum penalty to five years for people 21-years-old and older.
Mayor Brandon Scott said Friday that it “makes no sense” to have different maximum sentences for people of different ages convicted of misdemeanor gun possession.
“I look forward to supporting the state’s attorney. I told his staff earlier today that if they need me to come testify, I’ll be there to work with them, absolutely,” Scott said.
Friday morning, Bates pitched the proposal to the Baltimore City Delegation and answered questions from some lawmakers. The conversation came after Del. Frank Conaway, D-Baltimore City, announced he would sponsor the proposal himself.