https://www.theregister.co.uk/2020/01/27/ransomware_possession_criminal_maryland/

A US state that was struck by a ransomware attack last year is now proposing a local law that would ban possession of malicious software.

Local news website the Baltimore Fishbowl reported that Maryland's Senate heard arguments on Senate Bill SB0030, a proposition that would "label the possession and intent to use ransomware in a malicious manner as a misdemeanor" punishable with up to 10 years in prison and/or a $10,000 fine.