(a)(1) In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
(2) “Family member” has the meaning stated in § 3-601 of this subtitle.
(3) “Household member” has the meaning stated in § 3-601 of this subtitle.
(4) “Mental injury” means the substantial impairment of a minor's mental or psychological ability to function.
(5)(i) “Neglect” means the intentional failure to provide necessary assistance and resources for the physical needs or mental health of a minor that creates a substantial risk of harm to the minor's physical health or a substantial risk of mental injury to the minor.
(ii) “Neglect” does not include the failure to provide necessary assistance and resources for the physical needs or mental health of a minor when the failure is due solely to a lack of financial resources or homelessness.
Neglect of minor prohibited
(b) A parent, family member, household member, or other person who has permanent or temporary care or custody or responsibility for the supervision of a minor may not neglect the minor.
Misdemeanor violation
(c) A person who violates this section is guilty of the misdemeanor of child neglect and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 5 years or a fine not exceeding $5,000 or both.
Sentence imposed in addition to other sentences
(d) A sentence imposed under this section shall be in addition to any other sentence imposed for a conviction arising from the same facts and circumstances unless the evidence required to prove each crime is substantially identical.
Credits
Added by Acts 2011, c. 398, § 1, eff. Oct. 1, 2011; Acts 2011, c. 399, § 1, eff. Oct. 1, 2011.
Current through legislation effective through April 9, 2023, from the 2024 Regular Session of the General Assembly. Some statute sections may be more current, see credits for details.
