§ 3–904

the protection and preservation of the home is the keystone of democratic government;

the public health and welfare and the good order of the community require that members of the community enjoy in their homes a feeling of well-being, tranquility, and privacy and, when absent from their homes, carry with them the sense of security inherent in the assurance that they may return to the enjoyment of their homes;

the practice of picketing before or about residences and dwelling places causes emotional disturbance and distress to the occupants;

the purpose of this practice is to harass the occupants of the residences and dwelling places;

without resort to this practice, full opportunity exists, and under the provisions of this article will continue to exist, for the exercise of freedom of speech and other constitutional rights; and

the provisions of this section are necessary in the public interest to avoid the detrimental results described in this subsection.

picketing or assembly in connection with a labor dispute, as defined in § 4-301 of the Labor and Employment Article;

picketing in a lawful manner of a person’s home when it is also the person’s sole place of business; or

holding a meeting or assembly on any premises commonly used for the discussion of subjects of general public interest.

A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 90 days or a fine not exceeding $100 or both.

Each day on which a violation of this section occurs is a separate violation.

may enjoin conduct proscribed by this section; and

in the proceeding for injunctive relief, may award damages, including punitive damages, against any person found guilty of violating this section.