The Maryland General Assembly adjourned for the year on April 10th. Below is a selected list of the bills that lawmakers passed during their 90-day session. It will be updated as Governor Wes Moore signs, vetoes, or lets bills become law without his signature.

Bills are often introduced with the same language in both chambers to give them more of a chance of passage. Many of the bills listed below are dual filings. Bills that pass one chamber can be changed by the other. If approved with changes, the amended bill goes back to its original chamber. That body can approve it, reject it, or call for a conference committee. That committee would craft an agreed upon amended bill (conference report) for approval by both chambers.

STATE BUDGET

HB200 - (passed House 3/17 on 131-5 vote, amended version passed Senate 3/23 on 47-0 vote, conference committee appointed 3/28, House passed conference committee report 4/3 on 129-4 vote, Senate passed conference committee report 4/3 on 47-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 4/24)

HB202 - (passed House 3/17 on 111-24 vote, amended version passed Senate 3/23 on 47-0 vote, conference committee appointed 3/28, House passed conference committee report 4/3 on 123-10 vote, Senate passed conference committee report 4/3 on 47-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 4/24, goes into effect 6/1)

GUNS

SB1 - Sets limits where concealed carry permit holders can take their firearms, including prohibiting firearms in ‘sensitive places’ such as schools, government buildings, and retail establishments that sell alcohol for consumption on-site (Passed Senate 3/13 on 31-16 vote, amended version passed House 4/10 on 93-42 vote, amended version passed Senate 4/10 on 31-16 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/16, goes into effect 10/1) Read more: Major gun bill passes before Maryland General Assembly adjourns for the year, Moore signs law on concealed carry permits, NRA immediately sues Maryland

SB185/HB3 - Requires Maryland State Police Gun Center to track all firearms surrendered through final protective orders (SB185 passed Senate 3/13 on 47-0 vote, passed House 4/4 on 123-9 vote, singed by Gov. Moore 5/16, HB3 passed House 3/2 on 124-13 vote, passed Senate 4/7 on 41-2 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/16, goes into effect 10/1)

SB858 - Jaelynn’s Law, defines requirements around storage of guns in the home and increases penalties for violators (passed Senate 3/15 on 36-10 vote, amended version passed House 4/6 on 100-37 vote, amended version passed Senate 4/7 on 31-12 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/16, goes into effect 10/1) Read more: Jaelynn’s Law passes Maryland Senate, tightening requirements about gun storage

HB824 - Bans individuals from receiving a concealed carry permit if the person is on probation for a crime punishable for more than a year imprisonment, been involuntarily committed to a treatment facility for more than 30 days, or has a history of violence against another person, increases penalties for illegal gun ownership to up to five years in prison (passed House 3/16 by 98-39, amended version passed Senate 4/7 on 28-13 vote, amended version passed House 4/8 on 98-40 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/16, goes into effect 10/1)

PUBLIC SAFETY

SB5/HB13 - Allows victims of hate crimes to bring civil lawsuits against those who committed the act (SB5 passed Senate 3/17 on 45-0 vote, passed House 4/6 on 106-31 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/16, HB13 passed House 3/2 on 106-30 vote, passed Senate 3/31 on 45-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/16, goes into effect 10/1) Read more: How Maryland lawmakers dealt with hate crimes in their yearly session

SB37 - Shortens time period to apply for expungement of criminal record for certain offenses (passed Senate 3/9 on 38-9 vote, amended version passed House 4/6 on 99-38 vote, amended version passed Senate 4/7 on 30-13 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/16, goes into effect 10/1)

SB74/HB483 - Makes DUI’s for boating count as successive DUI’s for prior convictions for DUI’s while operating a vehicle and vice-versa (SB74 passed Senate 2/17 on 43-0 vote, passed House 4/4 on 131-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/8, HB483 passed House on 2/23 on 138-0 vote, passed Senate 4/7 on 43-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/8, goes into effect 10/1) Read more: Maryland Senate approves tougher penalties for repeat DUI offenders

SB129/HB4 - Repeals spousal defense for rape and sexual offense crimes (SB129 passed Senate 3/17 on 45-0 vote, passed House 4/4 on 131-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/16, HB4 passed House 3/2 on 136-0 vote, passed Senate 4/7 on 43-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/16, goes into effect 10/1) Read more: Maryland will end spousal defense for rape and sexual assault

SB290 - Gives power to Maryland Attorney General’s office to prosecute law enforcement officer-involved incidents that resulted in death (passed Senate 3/9 on 27-20 vote, passed House 4/6 on 99-37 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/16, goes into effect 10/1) Read more: Maryland Senate gives initial OK to allow AG’s office to do police-involved killing prosecutions

SB292/HB297 - Prohibits criminal prosecution or juvenile proceedings against minors if offense was committed as a direct result of child sex trafficking (SB292 passed Senate 3/20 on 45-0 vote, passed House 44 on 133-0 vote HB297, signed by Gov. Moore 5/16, HB297 passed House 2/24 on 138-0 vote, amended version passed Senate 4/7 on 42-0 vote, amended version passed House 4/10 on 140-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/16, goes into effect 10/1) Read more: At long last, Maryland joins most states in passing 'safe harbor' law for child victims of sex and human trafficking

SB340/HB745 - Antiswatting Act of 2023, establishes criminal and civil penalties for making false statements, reports, or complaints about an emergency or alleged commission of a crime to law enforcement (passed Senate 3/17 on 44-0 vote, passed House 4/4 on 132-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/16, HB745 passed House 3/14 on 135-0 vote, passed Senate 4/7 on 42-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/16, goes into effect 10/1)

SB391/HB174 - Requires a state’s attorney to meet with the victim of sexually assaultive behavior or their representative if requested within 20 days of a decision to not file or dismiss charges against an alleged suspect (SB391 passed Senate 3/17 on 46-0 vote, passed House 4/6 on 137-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/16, HB174 passed 2/24 on 138-0 vote, passed Senate 4/10 on 47-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore, goes into effect 10/1)

SB540 - Gives office the Maryland Attorney General power to investigate, prosecute, and remediate any conduct that constitutes a civil rights violation, creates fund to pay for such powers (SB540 passed Senate 3/17 on 36-9 vote, passed House 4/5 on 100-34 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/16, goes into effect 10/1) Read more: What you need to know after Maryland lawmakers greatly expanded Attorney General's powers

SB546/HB427 - Gives immunity from criminal prosecution to those who ‘in good faith’ seeks, provides, or assists with medical assistance after they have ingested or used drugs or alcohol (SB546 passed Senate 3/17 on 39-5 vote, passed House 4/6 on 136-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/16, HB427 passed House 3/16 on 137-0 vote, passed Senate 4/6 on 47-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/16, goes into effect 10/1)

SB760 - Prohibits employers from employing security guards unless they are certified, requires Maryland Police Training and Standards Commission to identify or establish training programs for certified security guards (passed Senate 3/17 on 45-0 vote, amended version passed House 4/10 on 108-32 vote, amended version passed Senate 4/10 on 47-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/16, goes into effect 6/1/2024)

HB226 - Expands definitions of ‘persons of authority’ for certain sex crimes (passed House 3/9 on 138-0 vote, amended version passed Senate 4/7 on 43-0 vote, amended version passed House 4/10 on 139-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/16, goes into effect 10/1)

HB1071 - Prohibits law enforcement from solely using the suspected odor of cannabis as cause for search for contraband (passed House 3/18 on 99-34 vote, amended version passed Senate 4/10 on 27-20 vote, amended version passed House 4/10 on 101-36 vote, Gov. Moore announced he would let bill go into law without his signature 5/19, goes into law 7/1) Read more: Legislative Black Caucus of Maryland priorities span from marijuana legalization equity to health, education

HB1175 - Expands eligibility to seek expungement of convictions of misdemeanor hunting offenses (passed House 3/20 on 134-0 vote, passed Senate 4/10 on 46-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/16, goes into effect 10/1)

ABORTION

SB341/HB477 - Requires institutions of higher learning to develop a reproductive health services plan in consultation with students by August 1, 2024 (SB341 passed 3/14 on 31-13 vote, amended version passed House 4/6 on 98-38 vote, amended version passed Senate 4/7 on 32-11 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/3, HB477 passed House 3/20 on 99-37 vote, passed Senate 3/31 on 33-13 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/3, goes into effect 7/1)

SB786/HB812 - Requires Maryland Health Care Commission to ensure confidentiality of data of patients who have obtained ‘legally protected health care’ including reproductive health care (SB786 passed Senate 3/20 on 31-12 vote, passed House 4/4 on 99-39 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/3, HB812 passed House 3/20 on 98-37 vote, passed Senate 3/31 on 34-13 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/3, goes into effect 6/1) Read more: Gov. Moore signs abortion and trans health bills into law

SB798/HB705 - Creates voter referendum for November 2024 election that enshrines in Maryland Constitution individual’s right to reproductive freedom including ability to prevent, continue, or end one’s own pregnancy (SB798 passed Senate 3/14 on 32-15 vote, passed House 3/30 on 98-38 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/3, HB705 passed House 3/10 on 99-37 vote, passed Senate 3/31 on 33-14 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/3) Read more: 2024 Voter referendum on abortion rights gets first OK in Maryland General Assembly

SB859/HB808 - Prohibits a judge from requiring a person give testimony or statements in another state regarding a person who sought ‘legally protected health care’ in Maryland including reproductive health care, prohibits regulators or insurers from taking adverse or disciplinary actions against a provider for providing reproductive health care in Maryland (passed Senate 3/17 on 33-11 vote, passed House 4/7 on 98-39 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/3, HB808 passed House 4/3 on 98-39 vote, passed Senate 4/7 on 31-11 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/3, goes into effect 6/1) Read more: Several new laws go into effect Thursday in Maryland

ELECTIONS

SB269/HB192 - Prohibits those falling under Maryland campaign finance law from making or accepting financial contributions using cryptocurrency (SB269 passed Senate 3/9 on 47-0 vote, passed House 4/3 on 136-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 4/24, HB192 passed House 3/9 on 138-0 vote, passed Senate 4/6 on 47-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 4/24, goes into effect 7/1)

SB287/HB509 - Requires Maryland Board of Elections to post municipal election results on its website, gives municipalities 30 days to send results once they’re certified to MD BOE (passed Senate 3/2 on 45-0 vote, passed House 4/10 on 136-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 4/24, HB509 passed House passed House 3/20 on 127-0 vote, passed Senate 4/7 on 41-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 4/24, goes into effect 10/1)

SB379/HB535 - Allows absentee ballots to be processed but not counted ahead of Election Day, expands ability to correct failure to sign oath on absentee ballot, changes 2024 primary date to second Tuesday in May (SB379 passed Senate 3/14 on 33-11 vote, amended version passed House 4/6 on 100-35 vote, amended version passed Senate 4/7 on 33-10 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 4/24, HB535 passed House 3/10 on 99-37 vote, amended version passed Senate 4/6 33-13, amended version passed House 4/8 on 100-38 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 4/24, goes into effect 10/1) Read more: Maryland General Assembly approved changes for 2024 election that reflect changing voter habits

SB863 - Changes requirements to remove from office the State Administrator of Elections to require 4 of 5 members of State Board of Elections to vote for removal (SB863 passed Senate 3/2 on 43-2 vote, passed House 4/10 on 135-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 4/24, goes into effect 6/1)

HB410 - Prohibits local Boards of Election from voting to move a polling place until a public hearing is held on the proposed move with the chance for the public to testify (passed House 3/16 on 138-0 vote, amended version passed Senate 4/10 on 47-0 vote, amended version passed House 4/10 on 137-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 4/24, goes into effect 6/1)

HB1200 - Requires election judges be paid at least $250 per day, and $50 for each course of instruction completed (passed House 3/16 on 121-16, amended version passed Senate 4/10 on 47-0 vote, amended version passed House 4/10 on 129-10 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 4/24, goes into effect 10/1)

LGBTQ+

SB54/HB131 - Repeals crime of unnatural or perverted sex practice, statute that was used to disproportionately criminalize LGBTQ+ community (SB54 passed Senate 2/21 on 34-11 vote, passed House 4/4 on 115-13 vote, HB131 passed House on 113-20 vote, passed Senate 3/31 on 34-12 vote, Gov. Moore announced he would let bills become law without his signature 5/19, goes into effect 10/1)

SB251/HB141 - Renames Maryland Commission on LGBTQ Affairs to Maryland Commission on LGBTQIA+ Affairs (SB251 passed Senate 2/17 on 32-11 vote, amended version passed House 3/29 on 103-33 vote, amended version passed Senate 3/31 on 35-1 vote, signed Gov. Moore 4/11, HB141 passed House 3/2 on 101-35 vote, passed Senate 3/31 on 34-12 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 4/11, goes into effect 10/1)

SB460/HB283 - Trans Health Equity Act, requires Medicaid in Maryland to provide coverage for gender-affirming treatments (SB460 passed Senate 3/20 on 31-15 vote, passed House 3/30 on 93-39 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/3, HB283 passed House 3/18 on 93-37 vote, amended version passed Senate 3/31 on 31-13 vote, amended version passed House 4/7 on 97-39 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/3, goes into effect 10/1) Read more: Maryland expanding trans health care to Medicaid passes House in nick of time advocates say

EDUCATION 

SB31/HB153 - Expands voting power of student member of Baltimore City School Board of Commissioners, also sets up elections of student member by high school students in school system (SB31 passed Senate 3/16 on 47-0 vote, passed House 4/10 on 113-22 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/16, HB153 passed House 3/20 on 115-19, amended version passed Senate 4/7 on 43-0 vote, amended version passed House 4/10 on 115-24 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/16, goes into effect 7/1)

SB248/HB384 - Prohibits institutions of higher education from withholding requested transcripts because of outstanding student debt (passed Senate 3/2 on 45-0 vote, passed House 4/4 on 126-14 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/16, HB384 passed House 3/9 on 131-7 vote, passed Senate 4/6 on 47-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/16, goes into effect 7/1)

SB610 - Establishes virtual education requirements for public schools, and allows for virtual education days for severe weather conditions under certain circumstances (passed Senate 3/17 on 30-14 vote, amended version passed House 4/10 on 96-38 vote, amended version passed Senate 4/10 on 34-11 vote, Gov. Moore announced he would let bill become law without signature 5/19, goes into effect 7/1)

SB620/HB802 - Prohibits institutions of higher learning from signing contracts with sports gambling entities if the contract the school receives compensation, bonuses, or incentives to get student to place bets with that entity (SB620 passed Senate 3/16 on 47-0 vote, passed House 4/5 on 134-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/16, HB802 passed House 3/15 on 137-0 vote, passed Senate 4/7 on 41-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/16, goes into effect 7/1) Read more: After sports betting apps became legal in Maryland, lawmakers set some limits

SB672/HB987 - Allows students who are not 21 to taste alcoholic beverages while participating in educational classes at institutions of higher education (SB672 passed Senate 3/13 on 46-0 vote, passed House 4/4 on 132-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 4/11, HB987 passed House 3/20 on 136-0 vote, passed Senate 4/5 on 46-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 4/11, goes into effect 7/1)

SB959 - Transfers administration of Maryland 529 program from the Maryland 529 Board to Maryland State Treasurer, abolishes Maryland 529 Board, stops all new accounts being made through Maryland Prepaid College Trust on June 1, 2023 (passed Senate 4/7 on 40-0 vote, amended version passed House 4/10 on 140-0 vote, amended version passed Senate 4/10 on 4/10, signed by Gov. Moore 4/24, goes into effect immediately) Read more: Maryland college savings board chair resigns after parents’ Annapolis protest of financial snafu

HB16 - Requires public schools to inform students, parents, faculty, and staff whom the school’s Title IX coordinator is, the process for filing a sexual misconduct claim, and how to access support measures after filing a sexual misconduct claim (passed House 2/16 on 135-0 vote, passed Senate 4/7 on 42-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/16, goes into effect 7/1)

HB78 - Requires local school boards to create guidelines by 2024-2025 school year to disclose food allergens in food served at their schools (passed House 2/16 on 134-0 vote, amended version passed Senate 3/31 on 46-0 vote, amended version passed House 4/7 on 137-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/16, goes into effect 6/1)

HB175 - Expands voting rights of student member of Baltimore County Board of Education (passed House 3/20 by 98-32 vote, passed Senate 4/10 on 45-2 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/16, goes into effect 7/1)

HB185 - Bans corporal punishment at non-public schools and child care providers (passed House 223 on 132-5 vote, passed Senate 4/7 on 36-7 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/16, goes into effect 7/1)

HB210 - Requires elected members of the Baltimore County Board of Education be elected in gubernatorial election years, and appointed members be chosen during presidential election years, terminates appointments of current appointed members on December 1, 2024 (passed House 3/20 on 133-0 vote, amended version passed Senate 4/10 on 47-0 vote, amended version passed House 4/10 on 138-1 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/16, goes into effect 7/1)

ENVIRONMENT

SB80/HB386 - Establishes fishing licenses for invasive blue and flathead catfish using a trotline (SB80 passed Senate 2/2 on 45-0 vote, passed House 4/4 on 130-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 4/24, HB386 passed House 3/2 on 135-0 vote, passed Senate 4/6 on 47-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 4/24, goes into effect immediately)

SB158/HB319 - Requires the Maryland Department of Agriculture to study the amount of PFA’s in pesticides used in the state (SB158 passed Senate 3/28 on 46-0 vote, passed House 4/10 on 135-5 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/8, HB319 passed House 4/4 on 135-4 vote, passed Senate 4/10 on 46-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/8, goes into effect 6/1)

SB222 - Requires by April 1, 2026 all producers selling packaging materials in Maryland have an agreement with the Maryland Department of the Environment to reduce the amount of packaging materials used (passed Senate 3/17 on 32-13 vote, amended version passed House 4/6 on 102-33 vote, conference committee appointed 4/8, conference report passed Senate 4/10 on 35-12 vote, conference report passed House 4/10 on 102-36 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/8, goes into effect 7/1)

SB224/HB230 - Clean Trucks Act, requires Maryland Department of the Environment by December 1, 2023 to establish regulations for the sale of new zero-emission medium and heavy duty trucks in the state (passed Senate 3/2 on 33-11 vote, amended version passed House 4/5 on 100-36 vote, amended version passed Senate 4/6 on 35-12 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 4/21, HB230 passed House 4/3 on 98-40 vote, passed Senate 4/10 on 35-12 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 4/21, goes into effect 6/1) Read more: Legislators paving the way for more clean trucks in Maryland

SB262/HB253 - Allows farmers to use food scraps from off-site locations as part of their composting (SB262 passed Senate 3/17 on 45-0 vote, passed House 4/5 on 135-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/8, HB253 passed House 3/9 on 138-0 vote, amended version passed Senate 3/31 on 46-0 vote, amended version passed House 4/7 on 138-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/8, goes into effect 10/1)

SB424/HB261 - Requires Maryland Department of General Services to set maximum acceptable global warming potential for each category of cement or concrete mixture used for public construction projects by January 1, 2025 (SB424 passed Senate 4/6 on 39-8 vote, passed House on 4/10 on 106-34 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 4/24, passed House 3/20 on 103-31 vote, amended version passed Senate 4/6 on 39-8 vote, amended version passed House 4/8 on 106-34 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 4/24, goes into effect 7/1) Read more: The obscure bill targeting global warming in Maryland effective July 1

SB611/HB874 - Creates Environment and Natural Resources Monitoring Unit within Maryland Attorney General’s Office to investigate and prosecute crimes against environment and natural resources (SB611 passed Senate 3/17 on 34-11 vote, amended version passed House 4/6 on 101-35 vote, amended version passed Senate 4/10 on 38-9 vote, singed by Gov. Moore 5/16, HB874 passed House 3/20 on 102-33 vote, amended version passed Senate 3/31 on 35-10 vote, amended version passed House 4/8 on 102-38 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/16, goes into effect 10/1)

SB741/HB1011 - Ends limits on use of refrigerants that are acceptable for use under Federal Clean Air Act (SB741 passed Senate 3/17 on 45-0 vote, amended version passed House 4/5 on 128-7 vote, amended version passed Senate 4/6 on 47-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/16, HB1011 passed House 3/20 on 135-0 vote, passed Senate 4/7 on 43-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/16, goes into effect 10/1)

SB781 - Requires Maryland Public Service Commission increase offshore wind energy, sets up subsidies for increased offshore wind energy (passed Senate 3/17 on 33-12 vote, amended version passed House 4/4 on 100-36 vote, conference committee appointed 4/8, conference report passed Senate 4/10 on 35-12 vote, conference report passed House 4/10 on 101-38 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 4/21, goes into effect 6/1) Read more: Governor Moore signs POWER Act to push wind energy in Maryland

SB880/HB843 - Creates Baltimore Regional Governance Water Task Force, requires from task force be sent to Baltimore Mayor, Baltimore County Executive, Maryland Governor, and Maryland General Assembly by January 30, 2024 (SB880 passed Senate 3/20 on 43-0 vote, amended version passed House 4/10 on 135-5 vote, amended version passed Senate 4/10 on 47-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 4/24, HB843 passed House 3/16 on 133-4 vote, amended version passed Senate 4/4 on 46-0 vote, amended version passed House 4/7 on 134-3 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 4/24, goes into effect immediately) Read more: Baltimore City and County want a fresh look at shared water system

HB90 - Allows local governments to create ordinances and fines for selling, planting, and growing of invasive strains of bamboo (passed House 3/15 on 131-8 vote, passed Senate 4/7 on 38-5 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/8, goes into effect 10/1)

HB513 - Requires the Maryland Department of Labor to enforce that investor-owned utilities require their contractors and subcontractors pay at least prevailing wages on certain underground projects (passed House 3/20 on 100-35 vote, passed Senate 4/6 on 36-11 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/3, goes into effect 6/1)

HB830 - Allows local governments to require new or significantly remodeled housing units to have electric vehicle parking spaces in certain circumstances, requires Maryland Energy Administration to study having more EV parking spaces at apartment buildings and submit report to Governor by Dec. 1, 2023 (passed House 3/20 on 100-36 vote, amended version passed Senate 4/7 on 39-4 vote, amended version passed House 4/10 on 102-36 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/8, goes into effect 10/1)

MENTAL HEALTH

SB3/HB271 - Requires Governor to include $12 million in budget starting in fiscal year 2025 for 9-8-8 trust fund (passed Senate 1/30 on 46-0 vote, passed House 3/29 on 135-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/3, HB271 passed House 3/18 on 135-0 vote, passed Senate 4/5 on 46-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/3, goes into effect 7/1) Read more: Maryland lawmakers may spend $12 million to improve mental health crisis line if bill moves forward

SB8/HB121 - Requires treatment plans for individuals in certain mental health facilities to include a discharge goal and estimated length of stay (SB8 passed Senate 3/31 on 46-0 vote, passed House 4/10 on 140-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/3, HB121 passed House 3/20 on 126-0 vote, amended version passed Senate 4/4 on 47-0 vote, amended version passed House 4/7 on 137-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/3, goes into effect 10/1)

SB154 - Requires Maryland Department of Health to develop public awareness campaign encouraging use of mental health directives (passed Senate 3/17 on 45-0 vote, passed House 4/6 on 136-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/3, goes into effect 7/1)

TRANSPORTATION

SB19/HB9 - Requires Maryland Department of Transportation to include equity as a factor when creating future transportation plans, reports, and goals (SB19 passed Senate 3/20 on 33-13 vote, amended version passed House 4/5 on 101-34 vote, amended version passed Senate 4/10 on 35-12 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/8, HB9 passed House 3/20 on 96-35 vote, amended version passed Senate 3/31 on 34-12 vote, amended version passed House 4/7 on 102-36 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/8, goes into effect 6/1) Read more: Supporters hope a new Governor means equity will be considered in Maryland’s future transportation projects

SB545 - Allows businesses that possess vehicles that have been towed to close from midnight to 6 a.m. (passed Senate 3/16 on 29-18 vote, passed House 4/5 on 102-33 vote, Gov. Moore announced 5/19 he would let bill become law without his signature, goes into effect 10/1)

SB617/HB673 - Removes Maryland Transit Administration fare rates from rising or falling alongside Consumer Price Index (SB617 passed Senate 3/20 on 32-13 vote, passed House 4/5 on 104-32 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/8, HB673 passed House 3/15 on 102-35 vote, passed Senate 4/5 on 36-10 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/8, goes into effect 7/1)

HB123 - Allows drivers of plug-in electric vehicles to use HOV lanes regardless of how many passengers are in vehicle (passed House 3/3 on 103-30 vote, amended version passed Senate 4/7 on 41-2 vote, amended version passed House 4/10 on 103-35 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 4/24, goes into effect immediately) Read more: Maryland lawmakers want electric vehicles in HOV lanes again

HB219 - Allows St. Mary’s County Board of Commissioners to produce report recommending areas of the county where unregistered golf carts can travel on public highways (passed House 3/20 on 134-0 vote, passed Senate 4/7 on 43-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/8, goes into effect 6/1)

HB391 - Requires parking citations issued by political subdivisions, state agencies, or third-party contractors include a box that the person issued the citation may check to indicate that the registration plates cited were not issued for the vehicle described in the citation (passed House 3/20 on 136-0 vote, passed Senate 4/10 on 46-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/8, goes into effect 10/1)

HB794 - Creates Baltimore Regional Transit Commission with one senior planning and two junior planning staff positions (HB794 passed House 3/15 on 103-34 vote, amended version passed Senate 3/31 on 37-8 vote, amended version passed House 4/8 on 109-29 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/8, goes into effect 10/1)

OTHERS OF NOTE

SB2/HB502 - Requires Maryland Department of Human Services to restore benefits lost through theft related to use of EBT cards (SB2 passed Senate 3/20 on 43-0 vote, amended version passed House 4/6 on 127-10 vote, amended version passed Senate 4/10 on 47-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 4/24, HB502 passed House 3/20 on 123-11 vote, amended version passed Senate 4/6 on 47-0 vote, amended version passed House 4/8 on 128-11 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 4/24, goes into effect immediately)

SB36/HB14 - Repeals ability of courts to grant limited divorces, alters grounds for absolute divorce (SB36 passed Senate 3/2 on 33-10 vote, passed House 4/10 on 128-4 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/16, HB14 passed House 3/2 on 133-0 vote, amended version passed Senate 4/4 on 38-9 vote, amended version passed House 4/7 on 133-3 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/16, goes into effect 10/1)

SB71/HB800 - Allows up to 25% of workers compensation claim awards be taken to pay off outstanding child support payments (SB71 passed Senate 3/10 on 46-0 vote, passed House 4/4 on 129-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/3, HB800 passed House 3/18 on 135-0 vote, passed Senate 4/7 on 42-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/3, goes into effect 10/1)

SB90/HB37 - Stop the Spam Calls Act, restricting telephone solicitations for non-charities (SB90 passed Senate 3/17 on 45-0 vote, amended version passed 4/6 on 135-0 vote, amended version passed Senate 4/7 on 43-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/3, HB37 passed House on 3/10 on 134-0 vote, amended version passed Senate 3/31 on 46-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/3, goes into effect 1/1/2024)

SB202/HB279 - Reinstates authority of Maryland Prescription Drug Affordability Board to set payment limits on what state and local governments pay for drugs (SB90 passed Senate 2/16 on 34-11 vote, passed House 3/29 on 97-39 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 4/11, HB279 passed House 2/16 on 97-38 vote, passed Senate 3/31 on 36-11 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 4/11, goes into effect immediately) Read more: Maryland's Prescription Drug Affordability Board may bring huge price relief

SB232/HB172 - Allows licensed athletic trainers to perform dry needling techniques like acupuncture (SB232 passed Senate 3/2 on 44-1 vote, amended version passed House 4/5 on 135-0 vote, amended version passed Senate 4/10 on 46-1 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/3, HB172 passed House 3/15 on 138-0 vote, passed Senate 4/5 on 44-2 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/3, goes into effect 10/1)

SB275/HB406 - Requires hunters using snares, traps, or similar devices to get a free Maryland Department of Natural Resources tag and display it on the device before using it (SB275 passed Senate 3/2 on 45-0 vote, passed House 4/4 on 128-5 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/8, HB406 passed House 3/2 on 135-1 vote, passed Senate 4/5 on 40-6 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/8, goes into effect 7/1)

SB293 - Repeals term ‘inmate’ and replaces it with ‘incarcerated individual’ for anyone who is detained in or confined to a correctional facility (passed Senate 3/7 on 47-0 vote, passed House 4/6 on 102-35 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/16, goes into effect 10/1)

SB346/HB260 - Requires sign language interpreters to get licensed by the state starting Jan. 1, 2025 (SB346 passed Senate 3/17 on 46-0 vote, amended version passed House 4/4 on 99-33 vote, Senate approved amended version 4/6 on 47-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/3, HB260 passed House 3/18 on 101-34 vote, passed Senate 4/10 on 47-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/3, goes into effect 10/1) Read more: Sign language interpreters will soon have to be licensed in Maryland

SB450/HB215 - Prohibits landlords from limiting or evicting tenants for repeatedly summoning law enforcement or emergency services (SB450 passed Senate 3/10 on 45-1 vote, passed House 4/6 on 99-37 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/16, HB215 passed House 2/28 on 97-37 vote, passed Senate 3/31 on 45-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/16, goes into effect 10/1)

SB497/HB178 - Designates Maryland Rye as the Maryland state spirit (SB497 passed Senate 3/31 on 45-0 vote, passed House 4/7 on 137-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/3, HB178 passed House 3/18 on 134-0 vote, passed Senate 3/31 on 46-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/3, goes into effect 10/1)

SB535/HB608 - Prohibits discrimination in the sale or rental of a dwelling against individuals with disabilities who have service dogs or keep their service dogs after its retirement from service (SB535 passed 3/10 on 46-0 vote, amended version passed House 4/5 on 135-1 vote, amended version passed Senate 4/7 on 43-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 4/24, HB608 passed House 4/3 on 137-1 vote, passed Senate 4/10 on 47-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 4/24, goes into effect 10/1)

SB551 - Creates service-year option for recent high school graduates (SB 551 passed Senate 3/17 on 37-9 vote, amended version passed House 4/10 117-21 vote, amended version passed Senate 4/10 on 39-8 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 4/24, goes into effect immediately) Read more: Gov. Moore defends use of executive order to get his ‘service-year option’ program rolling

SB552/HB547 - Family Prosperity Act, permanently extends Earned Income Tax Credits first started in wake of COVID-19 pandemic (SB552 passed Senate 3/20 on 32-13 vote, passed House 4/3 on 99-37 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 4/11, HB547 passed House 3/10 on 101-35 vote, passed Senate 4/7 on 31-12 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 4/11, goes into effect 6/1)

SB553/HB554 - Increases amount veterans can subtract from military retirement income against Maryland income tax (SB553 passed Senate 3/20 on 43-0 vote, passed House 4/3 on 138-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/12, HB554 passed House 3/15 on 139-0 vote, passed Senate 4/5 on 46-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/12, goes into effect 7/1)

SB555 - Speeds up adoption of $15 per hour minimum wage in Maryland to Jan. 1, 2024 (passed Senate 3/17 on 31-14 vote, passed House 4/4 on 102-38 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 4/11, goes into effect 7/1)

SB591 - Raises pay rate where employers can institute non compete or conflict of interest clauses for jobs to $22.50 per hour (passed Senate 3/13 on 47-0 vote, passed House 4/6 on 103-32 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/3, goes into effect 10/1)

SB624/HB1074 - Creates state tax credits for businesses to purchase automated external defibrillators (SB624 passed Senate 3/17 on 45-0 vote, passed House 4/3 on 138-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/8, HB1074 passed House 3/16 on 138-0 vote, passed Senate 4/5 on 46-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/8, goes into effect 7/1)

SB653/HB232 - Removes use of cannabis from definitions of neglect in child in need of assistance (CINA) proceedings (SB653 passed Senate 3/20 on 34-11 vote, amended version passed House 4/6 on 135-2 vote, amended version passed Senate 4/7 on 32-11 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/16, HB232 passed House 3/2 on 134-1 vote, amended version passed Senate 4/4 on 36-11 vote, amended version passed House 4/7 on 137-1 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/16, goes into effect 7/1)

SB 686/HB1 - Child Victims Act, eliminates statute of limitations for child sex abuse victims to bring civil action, allowing them to sue at any age (passed Senate 3/16 on 42-5 vote, passed House 4/6 on 133-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 4/11, HB1 passed House 3/1 on 132-2 vote, passed Senate 4/5 on 42-4 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 4/11, goes into effect 10/1) Read more: Moore signs into law allowing child sex abuse survivors to file civil lawsuits at any age

SB723 - Repeals $1-per page fee for electronic copies of any paper filed with the Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation (passed Senate 3/16 on 47-0 vote, passed House 4/4 on 133-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 4/11, goes into effect 10/1)

SB797/HB1191 - Establishes Task Force on Preventing and Countering Elder Abuse, requires it submit report to Governor and General Assembly by December 31, 2024 (SB797 passed Senate 3/10 on 46-0 vote, amended version passed House 4/5 on 135-0 vote, amended version approved by Senate 4/7 on 43-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/16, HB1191 passed House 3/20 on 133-0 vote, passed Senate 4/7 on 43-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 51/16, goes into effect 7/1)

SB805/HB1217 - Requires Medicaid and other insurers in Maryland to cover biomarker testing (SB805 passed Senate 3/20 on 46-0 vote, amended version passed House 4/6 on 132-3 vote, amended version passed Senate 4/10 on 46-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/3, HB1217 passed House 3/20 on 132-3 vote, amended version passed Senate 3/31 on 43-0 vote, amended version passed House 4/7 on 136-2 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/3, goes into effect 1/1/2024)

SB839/HB902 - Extends timeframe that workers can file a workers compensation claim for a hernia suffered while working (SB839 passed Senate 3/17 on 45-0 vote, passed House 4/5 by 128-8 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/3, HB902 passed House 3/18 on 124-10 vote, passed Senate 3/31 on 47-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/3, goes into effect 10/1) Read more: Maryland lawmakers want to change workers comp for when hernias happen at work

SB842/HB1244 - Makes January 27th Maryland Holocaust Remembrance Day in Maryland (SB842 passed Senate 3/16 on 47-0 vote, amended version passed House 3/29 on 136-0 vote, passed Senate 3/31 on 47-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 4/11, HB1244 passed House 3/20 on 135-0 vote, passed Senate 4/5 on 46-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 4/11, goes into effect 10/1)

SB914/HB811 - Requires hospitals test for fentanyl in urine drug screening and give deidentified results when fentanyl is detected to the Maryland Department of Health (SB914 passed Senate 3/27 on 46-0 vote, passed House 4/10 on 135-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/3, passed House 3/20 on 132-0 vote, passed Senate 4/5 on 46-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/3, goes into effect 10/1) Read more: All Maryland hospitals must soon test for fentanyl, report results to state

HB2 - Creates a Maryland state income tax deduction of up to $250 for those who pay union dues (passed House 3/16 on 101-35 vote, amended version passed Senate 4/6 on 35-12 vote, amended version passed House 4/8 on 104-36 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/8, goes into effect 7/1)

HB214 - Creates Commission on Public Health to study and make recommendations on ‘foundational public health services’ such as communicable disease control, chronic disease and injury prevention, maternal health, etc. (passed House 2/16 on 135-0 vote, amended version passed Senate 4/4 on 47-0 vote, conference committee appointed 4/7, conference report passed House 4/10 on 136-3 vote, conference report passed Senate 4/10 on 35-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/3, goes into effect 6/1)

HB556 - Cannabis Reform, implements Maryland’s legalization of recreational cannabis on July 1, 2023 (passed House 3/10 on 103-32 vote, amended version passed Senate 4/7 on 30-12 vote, amended version passed House 4/8 on 104-35 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/3, goes into effect immediately) Read more: Maryland’s recreational marijuana reform bill gets initial passage in House of Delegates

HB630 - Allows victims of abuse through a court order to terminate shared utility accounts without penalties or fees (passed House 3/16 on 133-0 vote, amended version passed Senate 4/7 on 43-0 vote, amended version passed House 4/10 on 138-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/8, goes into effect 10/1)

HB967 - Establishes October 5th every year as Dashain Day in Maryland (passed House 3/20 on 136-0 vote, passed Senate 4/10 on 34-0 vote, signed by Gov. Moore 5/3, goes into effect 10/1)