Grace’s Law In Action
A bill named in honor of a Howard County teen who committed suicide after she was bullied online would make it a misdemeanor to repeatedly and maliciously use a computer or smartphone to bully someone under the age of 18.
The Senate last week gave final approval to “Grace’s Law,” which was introduced by Del. Jon Cardin, a Baltimore County Democrat.
Grace McComas, a 15-year-old Glenelg High School sophomore, committed suicide on Easter Sunday last year, after repeated cyberbullying through social media websites.
Sen. Allan Kittleman, a West Friendship Republican, sponsored the Senate version of the legislation.
Kittleman said this bill was “one of the most important pieces of legislation” that he has worked on during his eight years in the Senate.
“This is landmark legislation for Maryland,” he said.
Under the law, bullying someone under the age of 18 through a computer or smartphone could warrant up to a $500 fine or up to one year in prison.
Kittleman said he expects the law to be a proactive tool for law enforcement.
He believes once someone is confronted with the possible charges by law enforcement, they will end their bullying.
For additional information on Remembering Grace McComas, please visit
Grace McComas Facebook Memorial Page