Members of the Maryland House of Delegates convene at the state house in Annapolis, Md., on the first day of the state's 2018 legislative session.

MARYLAND FEDERATION OF REPUBLICAN WOMEN – 2023 WEEKLY LEGISLATIVE UPDATE – FEBRUARY 17, 2023

Bill NumnberBILL DESCRIPTION BY TOPICCOMMITTEE /HEARING INFO AND SPONSORSBILL STATUSCOMMENTS
BUDGET – REVENUE--TAXES
HB0015Increase income tax subtraction for military retirement and public safety retirement income to $20,000 for years after 2023. Public Safety Retirement subtraction for 2023 increased to $17,500.W&M; Hearing 2/02 at 1 p.m.; Del. Rogers.1st Reader
B&T – Hearing 1/19 at 1 p.m.;
SB00831st Reader
HB0043In property tax sales require each county to establish a process for a person entitled to any balance over the amount required for the payment of taxes, interest, penalties, and costs of sale to claim the balance after a tax sale foreclosure; and require notification to the prior property owner, within 90 days, of the balance amount and the process for claiming the balance.W&M; Hearing 1/24 at 1 p.m.; Del. Atterbeary1st Reader
HB0067Decreasing, from 6% to 5%, the sales and use tax rate for a 12-month period beginning July 1 if the inflation rate (CPI for urban users), as determined by the Comptroller, is at least 6%.W&M; Hearing 2/02 at 1 p.m.; Del. R. Long1st Reader
HB0074Maryland Rail Authority (MRA) – Establish MRA’s operating expenses will come from the Transportation Trust Fund (TTF). Grants authority to MRA to maximize tolls for roads, bridges & tunnels. Includes railroad facilities and railroad services in the definitions of “transit facility” and “transit service” related to the rights and responsibilities of the Maryland Transit Administration (MTA).APP & ENT – Hearing cancelled. Del. Korman.1st ReaderCreates a new gov’t agency.
Could lead to increased tolls for all toll facilities.
FIN – Hearing 2/22 at 1 p.m.; Str. Rosepepe et al
SB04121st ReaderAppears to allow tolls from roads to be included in fund that funds rail related projects.
HB0089Establish the People’s Fund. Requires the Comptroller to distribute 25% of the State estate tax revenue to the Maryland People’s Fund annually. The non-lapsing fund will be distributed as provided in the State budget.APP – Hearing 1/24 at 1 p.m.; Del. Acevero1st ReaderNo specific purpose is identified for the People’s Fund. Reduces Estate Tax funds going to the General Fund by $40 Million/yr.
HB0125Modify MD Income Tax Subtraction for Retirement Income for individuals over 65 or disabled to 30% of adjusted MD income for 2023; 60% for 2024 and 100% for 2025 and after.W&M – Hearing 2/02 at1st Reader
1 p.m.; Del. Grammer
HB0142“More Local Income Tax Relief.” Increasing from 3.2% to 3.7%, the maximum tax rate that a county may impose on an individual's Maryland taxable income. The County must set income brackets and apply highest rate to individuals with MD taxable income in excess of two times the maximum state bracket (i.e., individual $500,000 or $600,000 for spouses) and lower the rate for lowest income bracket. The lowest rate may not be less than 2.25%.W&M – Hearing 2/02 at1st ReaderNote: Income brackets set by counties may differ from those of the State under HB142.
1 p.m.; Del. Palakovich-Carr
SB0270B&T – Hearing 2/08 at 1 p.m.;
Strs. Rosapepe et al
HB0180Increase amount of Income Tax subtraction for Adoption. Amt. increases to $12,000 for adoption of a special needs child and $10,000 for adoption of a child without special needs in the year of the adoption.W&M - Hearing 2/09 at 1 p.m.1st Reader
Del. Reznik et al.
SB0141B&T – Hearing 1/25 at 2 p.m.;Fav. w/amendments Rep. by B&T.
Strs. Elfreth & Zucker
HB0200State Budget for FY 2024APP; Speaker.1st Reader
SB0181B&T; President1st Reader
HB0201Creation of a State Debt – Maryland Consolidated Capital Bond Loan of 2023, and the Maryland Consolidated Capital Bond Loans of 2011 through 2023.APP; Speaker.1st Reader
SB0182B&T; President1st Reader
HB0202Budget Reconciliation and Financing Act of 2023APP- Hearing 2/28 at 1 p.m.; Speaker.1st Reader
B&T -Hearing 3/01 at 1 p.m.; President.
SB01831st Reader
HB-0422Repealing a requirement that motor fuel tax rates be adjusted in future years based on growth in the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers.W&M -Hearing 2/14 at 1 p.m.; Del. M. Morgan & 23 Rep. Del.1st ReaderSupport. MFRW Priority.
B&T – Hearing 2/08 at 1 p.m;
SB0261Str. Gallion et al1st Reader
HB0521Increase MD income tax subtraction for a volunteer for a bona fide MD police agency or fire, rescue or EMS organization or auxiliary; or the U.S Coast Guard auxiliary, the MD Defense Force or MD Civil Air Patrol to $10,000 for years after 2023.W&M – Hearing 2/16 at1st Reader
1 p.m.; Del. Griffith + 31 Rep.
SB0076
B&T – Hearing 1/19 at 1 p.m.1st Reader
Str. Bailey
SB0094Increase MD income tax subtraction modification for volunteer firemen, rescue and EMS to $10,000/year for tax years beginning after 2023.B&T – Hearing 1/19 at 1 p.m.Passed 3rd Reader
Str. Jackson(45-0)
SB0134Provides a County and State property tax credit on the dwelling house for disabled veterans that is equal to the percentage of the disabled veteran’s service–connected disability rating.B&T – Hearing 1/19 at 1 p.m.;1st ReaderFiscal Note from prior year’s bill states there are 13,644 property owners with a 100% service related disability. Bill might increase those eligible by 39,700.
Str. Jackson
SB0319Altering eligibility for a subtraction modification under the MD income tax for the first $100,000 of income for a taxable year by an individual who is at least 75 years old, rather than 100 years old; and applying the Act to all taxable years beginning after December 31, 2022.B&T – Hearing 2/08 at 1 p.m.;1st Reader
Strs. Brooks, West & Kramer
SB0461Retirement Tax Elimination Act. Subtraction Modification for Retirement and Social Security Income for 2023 - $10,000 and increase yearly up to $50,000 in 2027; From 2028 on exempt all income.B&T – Hearing 3/01 at 1 p.m.;1st Reader
Str. Hershey + All Republican Senators.
CANNABIS LEGALIZATION IMPLEMENTATION
HB0135“Drug Kingpin” is an organizer, supervisor, financier, or manager who acts as a coconspirator in a conspiracy to manufacture, distribute, dispense, transport in, or bring into the State a controlled dangerous substance. A Drug kingpin involving 50 lbs. or more of cannabis is guilty of a felony and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 10 years or a fine not exceeding $100,000 or both. JUD – Hearing 1/31 at 1 p.m.;1st ReaderNote: HB135 provides that a person who manufactures, distributes, dispenses, or possesses 50 lbs. or more of cannabis is guilty of a misdemeanor and if convicted faces up to 5 years in prison or $50,000 fine or both.
Dels. Moon and Williams
HB0173Drug Paraphernalia for Administration -DecriminalizationJUD-Hearing 2/07 at 1 p.m.,1st ReaderSee details under heading: Civil Rights, Criminal law heading.
Del. Moon
HB0280Cannabis Related Offenses – Civil Penalties. A finding of guilt involving the use or possession of an amount of cannabis exceeding the personal use amount is a civil offense punishable by a fine not exceeding $250 or 75 hours of community services. Penalty does not increase for repeat offenders. Those under 18 are not allowed to prepay fine but must appear in court and can be required to complete to a rehabilitation education program.JUD – Hearing 2/07 at 1 p.m.; Dels. Davis et al.1st Reader
JPC – Hearing 2/01 at
HB00732:30 p.m.; Str. Carter1st Reader
HB0556Cannabis Reform Implementation: Includes:ECM – Hearing 2/17 at 1 p.m.;1st Reader
·         Medical cannabis companies can pay a fee to convert their license to recreation. Dels. Wilson & Atterbeary
·         Medical cannabis business owners are able to obtain dual licenses.
·         Creates 120 new dispensary licenses, 25 grower licenses and 25 processor licenses.
·         Establishes a 6 percent sales tax on recreational cannabis products in 2023, with a 1 percent increase each year up to 10 percent.
SB 0516·         Prohibits advertising via billboards or other publicly visible locationFIN – Hearing 3/09 at 1 p.m.;1st Reader
·         Provides for diversity and social equity.Strs. Feldman & Hayes
HB1147Requiring the Cannabis Oversight Agency to, by regulation, (1) establish a procedure to ensure that no individual who has been diagnosed with cannabis-induced psychosis may purchase cannabis or cannabis products through the State's medical cannabis program or adult-use cannabis program; and (2) to prohibit any cannabis or cannabis product sold through the State's adult-use cannabis program from containing greater than a 15% concentration of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol.ECM & HGO. 1st Reader
ECM Hearing 3/03 at 1 p.m.;
HGO Hearing 3/07 at 1 p.m.
Del. Mangione et al
SB0051Providing that a determination of reasonable suspicion or probable cause relating to possession of contraband or other criminal activity may not be based solely on the odor of raw or burnt cannabis, or the possession of cannabis, or the presence of money in proximity to cannabis and that evidence obtained in violation of this Act is not admissible in court. There is an exception for a police officer investigating whether a person is driving, operating, or controlling a motor vehicle or vessel while impaired by drugs, except that the odor of cannabis may not be the basis for finding probable cause to justify the search of an area of a vehicle or vessel not readily accessible to the driver or operator.JPC – Hearing 2/02 at 1 p.m.;1st ReaderWould this apply equally to alcohol? Odor of alcohol would not be a determination of reasonable suspicion or probably cause?
Str. Carter
SB0249Requiring the Motor Vehicle Administration to include in the curriculum for a standardized driver education program information on the laws relating to and the risks of driving while under the influence of cannabis.JPC – Hearing 2/15 at 1 p.m.;1st Reader
Str. Kramer
CIVIL RIGHTS – CRIMINAL LAW – LAW ENFORCEMENT
HB0049Economic Justice & Racial Reconciliation Act to establish a Commission to study racial disparities in wealth and resources due to tax laws and systems in place in the State from the Reconstruction Era thru the enactment of the federal Civil Rights Act of 1964. The Commission to make recommendations (1) relating to compensation of the State's African American communities for racial disparities identified, (2) on State funding sources, and (3) for needed legislation.HGO Hearing 2/08 at1st Reader
2:30 p.m.; Del. Amprey
HB0088 Require the Maryland Police Training and Standards Commission to prohibit police officers from affiliating with, supporting, or advocating for White supremacist groups, ideologies, or causes or participating in or actively promoting an international or domestic extremist group identified by the FBI that supports or encourages illegal violent conduct.JUD – Hearing 1/24 at 1 p.m.; Del. Acevero1st Reader
HB0096Repealing provisions of the Juvenile Court Act specifying that the juvenile court does not have jurisdiction over a child alleged to have committed a crime of violence that if committed by an adult or result o life imprisonment including rape and murder.JUD-Hearing 3/02 at 1 p.m.; Del. Crutchfield;1st ReaderSee also SB0015.
SB0093JPC – Hearing 2/16 at 1 p.m.;1st Reader
Str. Carter
HB0115 Liability for Violation of Civil Rights. A police officer who, under color of law, deprives an individual of or infringes on, or allows another to deprive an individual of an individual’s right secured by the Maryland Declaration of Rights or the Maryland constitution is liable for damages brought in a civil action against the police officer up to $25,000 or 5% of any settlement. If Officer acted in “good faith” and action was legal employing agency will pay the settlement.JUD; Hearing 1/19 at 1 p.m.; Del. Acevero.1st Reader
HB0126Prohibiting use of a camera for visual surveillance with prurient intent of a minor in a private place or residence. If the victim is a minor and the person conducting the visual surveillance is at least 4 years older than the victim, a person who violates this section by use of a camera is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 5 years or a fine of $2,500 or both.JUD – Hearing 1/31 at 1 p.m.;JUD Favorable Rpt.
Del. Pippy
HB0145MD State Police Training & Standards Commission. Removes the requirement for certification as a police officer that a person who is a legal permanent resident and honorably discharged from the U.S. military apply for citizenship and become a citizen or be terminated by the Commission.JUD – Hearing 1/31 at 1 p.m.; Del. Fraser-Hidalgo1st Reader
JPC – Hearing 2/01 at 1:30 pm
SB0126Str. Kagan1st Reader
HB0164Sex Offense – Crime of Violence and Lifetime Supervision. Applies where victim is under 13 years of age and offender is an adult; or victim is under 16 years of age and the offender is 21 years old.JUD – Hearing - 1/31 at 1 p.m.1st Reader
Del. Crosby
SB0057JPC – Hearing - 2/01 at 1:30 p.m.; Str. Bailey.1st Reader
HB0170Minors convicted as Adults – Transfer to Juvenile Ct.JUD – Hearing cancelled.JUD Unfavorable Rpt.
Requiring a court to consider certain factors before sentencing a minor convicted as an adult and to state on the record its consideration of the factors at sentencing. Establishing a presumption that the sentencing of a minor convicted as an adult should be transferred to the juvenile court, and authorizing the court to do so, if the individual who the minor committed the offense against committed a sex crime or human trafficking against the minor within 3 months before the minor’s offense. Requiring the juvenile court to make a juvenile determination. Del. Simpson et alWithdrawn
HB0173Decriminalization of drug paraphernalia – Removes hypodermic syringe, needle, or any other object or combination of objects adapted to administer a controlled dangerous substance by hypodermic injection from the prohibited list of drug paraphernalia. Reduces penalty for other drug paraphernalia to $500 for a 1st offense and 1 year in prison and $1,000 fine for additional. offenses.JUD – Hearing 2/07 at 1 p.m. Del. Moon et al1st Reader
HB0174Requiring an assistant State’s Attorney to meet with a victim of sexually assaultive behavior if the Office of the State’s Attorney has elected to dismiss charges or not to file charges against an alleged suspect; and generally relating to victims’ rights.JUD – Hearing 2/02 atJUD Favorable Rpt.
2:30 p.m.; Del. Simpson et al
SB0391JPC; Hearing 2/21 at 1 p.m.; Strs Lewis, et al1st Reader.
HB0193Probation. Court may make findings of fact sufficient to support a guilty verdict, but stay a finding of guilt by signing an agreement that if the defendant violates the probation agreement the guilty finding & maximum sentence will be imposed. The defendant waives appeals.JUD – Hearing 2/07 at 1 p.m.; Del. Moon1st ReaderNote: Passed the House last year. Bill protects an illegal immigrant from receiving a formal sentence or Probation before Judgement (PBJ). A PBJ is grounds for deportation.
JPC – Hearing 2/08 at 1 p.m.;
SB0211Strs. West and Smith1st Reader
HB0212A person may not with prurient intent commit the common law crime of indecent exposure within the sight of a minor who is: (1) at least 2 years old; and (2) more than 4 years younger than the person. If convicted is guilty of a misdemeanor and is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 5 years or a fine not exceeding $10,000 or both.JUD – Hearing – 2/07 at 1 p.m.JUD Favorable Rpt.
Del. Crosby and Pippy.
SB0208JPC – Hearing 2/14 at 1 p.m.; Str. Bailey1st Reader
HB0223Criminal Procedure – Facial Recognition Technology.JUD - Hearing 2/07 at 1 p.m.;1st ReaderNote: Current Courts Article Subtitle 3-8A-18 for a child to be charged with being delinquent requires proving allegation beyond a reasonable doubt. It appears HB 223 would rule out using Facial recognition to charge a minor.
Facial recognition technology results may only be introduced in a criminal proceeding or in a delinquency proceeding for Title 3, Subtitle 8A of the Courts Article for establishing probable cause or positive identification, but cannot be the sole basis to establish probable cause or positive ID in a criminal investigationDels. Moon and Love.
SB0192JPC – Hearing 2/08 at 1 p.m.;1st Reader
Str. Sydnor
HB0226Expanding the definition of “person in a position of authority” to one who is under contract with or is a volunteer, an intern or a paid employee of an institution, a program, or an activity of a public or private preschool, elementary or secondary school; a child care facility or after–school program; a commercial or nonprofit instructional program for music, dance, art, tutoring, academic enrichment, martial arts, or a program with a similar purpose; a sports, scouting, or recreational activity or program; a day or overnight camp; a religious institution; or unit of local, state, or federal government and, who in that capacity, directs or supervises minors participating in the program or activity. Prohibits engaging in a sexual act, sexual contact, or vaginal intercourse with a minor 14 or 15 years of age by a person at least 4 years older while participating in the institution, program, or activity where the person is in a position of authority and generally relating to persons in a position of authority and sexual offenses.JUD – Hearing 2/07 at 1 p.m.;1st ReaderCloses loopholes.
Dels. Love et al
SB0021JPC – Hearing 2/01 at1st Reader
1:30 p.m.; Str. West
HB0233A person may not knowingly possess and intentionally retain, or knowingly or intentionally access with intent to view, a film, videotape, photograph, or other visual representation showing an actual child or a computer–generated image indistinguishable from an actual & identifiable child under the age of 16.JUD – Hearing 2/07 at 1 p.m.;1st Reader
Del. Grammer.
1st Reader
SB0226JPC – Hearing 2/14 at 1 p.m.;
Str. Salling
HB0297Victims of Child Sex Trafficking & Human Trafficking – Safe Harbor and Service ResponseJUD – Delegate BartlettJUD Favorable Rpt.
JPC -Hearing 2/14;1st Reader
SB0292Str. Waldstreicher
HB0330 Bill applies to any individual serving a sentence of incarceration. The state’s attorney may file a motion for reduction of sentence at any time during the period of active incarceration recommending a lesser sentence if it is in the interest of justice.JUD – Hearing 2/07 at 1 p.m.;1st ReaderAppears to include those sentenced to life without chance of parole.
Del. Williams
SB0295JPC – Hearing 2/14 at 1 p.m.;1st Reader
Str. Sydnor
HB0385Correctional Facilities -Restrictive Housing Limitations.JUD – Hearing 2/14 at 1 p.m.;1st Reader
(Maryland Mandela Act.)Del. Bartlett
HB0409Establish MD Reparations Commission. (Harriet Tubman Act.)HGO – Hearing 3/01 at 1 p.m.;1st Reader
Del. Acevero
HB0426Correctional Facilities - An inmate shall be housed at a correctional facility designated for men or women based on whether the inmate prefers to be housed in a placement that most closely aligns with the inmate’s gender identity or according to the inmate’s sex assigned at birth. Provides that a transgender, non-binary or intersex inmate to have the opportunity to shower separately; and to request a single cell housing.JUD – Hearing 2/21 at 1 p.m.; Del. Lopez et al.1st ReaderConcerns: Unsafe for biological female inmates to have biological male inmates who identify as female locked in the same cell. separate housing w/be safer.
JPC; Str. Carter
SB07611st Reader
HB0446Indigenous Peoples’ Day – Replace Columbus Day.HGO-Hearing 3/15 at 1 p.m.;1st Reader
Del. Amprey
HB0483Prior Conviction for grossly negligent or drunk or drugged operation of a vehicle or vessel. A prior conviction under Transportation article 21-902 will count as a prior conviction for drugged or drunken operation of a vessel. JUD – Hearing 2/08 at 1 p.m.;JUD Favorable Rpt.
Dels. Simmons et al
SB0074JPC- Hearing 1/31 at 1 p.m.Passed 3rd Reader
Str. Bailey(43-0)
HB0666Establishing that a parent has the fundamental right to direct the upbringing, education, care, and welfare of the parent's child; and prohibiting the State or a political subdivision from infringing on a parent's fundamental right to direct the upbringing, education, care, and welfare of the parent's child unless the State or political subdivision can demonstrate by clear and convincing evidence that their infringement is necessary to achieve a compelling gov’t. interest and is narrowly tailored is the least restrictive means.JUD – Hearing 2/22 at 1 p.m.;1st ReaderSUPPORT
Dels. Miller et alVery much needed in view of recent and proposed laws restricting parents knowledge, guidance or consent for minor children to make decisions for their mental or physical care of identity.
SB0566JPC – Hearing 3/15 at 1 p.m.;1st Reader
Str. Readu+10 Rep. Senators
HB0715A person convicted of a violent crime after 10/1/2023 must serve 85% of inmate’s aggregate sentence for violent crimes; or One–fourth of the inmate’s total aggregate sentence before eligible for parole.JUD – Hearing 2/23 at 1 p.m.1st Reader
Del. Grammer
HB0731Pension and Retirement- Forfeiture of Benefits for Law Enforcement Officers found guilty of a qualifying crime on duty.JUD – Hearing 2/23 at 1 p.m.;1st Reader
Del. Wilkins
SB0597B&T- Hearing 3/02 at1st Reader
8:30 a.m.; Str. Carter
SB0015Requires an intake officer to file a petition alleging that a child under 10 years of age is “a child in need of supervision” if the child is alleged to have committed an act that results in the death of a victim; and generally relating to juvenile law.JPC – Hearing 2/08 at 1 p.m.1st ReaderSee also HB0096 (SB0093).
Str. Carter
SB0027To establish the Restorative Justice Program within the Victim Services Unit of the Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention, Youth, and Victim Services to ameliorate the harmful effects of offenses on a victim in a manner that treats the victim with dignity, respect, and sensitivity; and to address the rates of incarceration and commitment of offenders; and the harm to communities. Either a victim or an offender may request to participate in the program. Participation is voluntary.JPC – Hearing 2/02 at 1 p.m.; Str. West1st Reader
SB0047Fair Housing Tester – Wiretapping Legal. It is lawful for a person to intercept a wire, oral, or electronic communication if the person is working as a fair housing tester for a fair housing testing program operated by: The federal government; the state; a local government; or a nonprofit civil rights organization; if the person is a party to the communication; and the interception is being made for the purpose of obtaining evidence of a fair housing violation under federal, state, or local law.JPC – Hearing 1/31 at 1 p.m.; Str. Sydnor1st Reader
EDUCATION
HB0069Requiring a public school principal to provide written notice to a parent or guardian of a student who engages in two or more incidents of violent and disruptive behavior in a public school during a school year and establishing that it is unlawful for said parent or guardian to fail to seek and participate in counseling with their child after receiving notice of violent and disruptive behavior. Court can impose community service for parent for failure to participate. W&M- Hearing 2/01 at 1 p.m. Del. R. Long1st Reader
HB0085This bill repeals the prohibition against a public school employer and employee organization negotiating the maximum number of students assigned to a class during collective bargaining.W&M – Hearing 2/01 at1st Reader
1 p.m.; Del. J. Lewis.
SB0206FIN – Hearing 2/09 at 1 p.m.; Str. Beidle.1st Reader
HB0119Primary & Secondary Education –Requires State Dept of Education with the State Dept. of Health to develop a Comprehensive Health Education Framework; local Bds of Ed. to develop age-appropriate health education curriculum for each grade and provide a parent opt out for Family Life-Human Sexuality and/or Gender Identity and Sexual Preference topics but not for topics related to HIV or AIDs prevention.W&M – Hearing 2/01 at 1 p.m.; Del. Atterbeary1st Reader Oppose. View current plan at: https://marylandpublicschools.org key in Comprehensive Health Education Framework to read the plan for pre-K up to 12th grade. Note: Types of family doesn’t list 2-parent families. Are human sexuality topics age appropriate?
EEE; Hearing 2/08 at 1 p.m.; Str. Lam et al
SB01991st Reader
HB0137A member of the administrative, educational, or support staff of any public, private, or parochial school acting in an official capacity is immune from civil liability for any personal injury or property damage resulting from an intervention in an altercation between students or other student disturbance if: (1) the member intervened in a reasonably prudent manner; and (2) the actions taken by the member in intervening do not constitute grossly negligent, willful, wanton, or intentionally tortious conduct.JUD – Hearing 1/25 at1st Reader
2:30 p.m.; Del. Grammer
HB0203Requiring a law enforcement agency making an arrest of a student for a reportable offense or an offense related to the student's membership in a criminal organization to report the arrest to the Maryland Center for School Safety, the State Board of Education, and the State's Attorney; requiring the State's Attorney to notify the Maryland Center for School Safety and the State Board of the disposition of the offense;JUD – Hearing 2/02 at1st Reader
2:30 p.m.; Del. R. Long
HB0265Public Schools – Standardized Behavioral Health Questionnaire for Students. The consortium on Coordinated Community Supports shall develop guidelines for developing a standardized questionnaire to identify students with behavioral health services’ needs. The questionnaire will be given to the parents of each child when they enroll each year.W&M – Hearing 2/08 at1st Reader
1 p.m.; Del. Guyton
SB0388EEE – Hearing 3/01 at 1 p.m.;1st Reader
Strs. Lewis et al
HB0300Requiring local school systems to consider whether new schools should be constructed with solar panels on the roofs of the schools through June 2034; Local school systems must provide the Interagency Commission on School Construction an explanation for a decision not to include solar panels as part of the construction or major renovation of a school.APP – Hearing 2/07 at 1 p.m.;1st Reader
Dels. Bhandari et al
SB0235B&T – Hearing 2/01 at 1 p.m.;Passed 2nd Reader with amendments
Str. West
HB0350Public Schools – Reporting of sexual misconduct, stalking & Harassment (Report Act of 2023).W&M – Hearing 2/15 at1st Reader
1 p.m.; Del. Grammer
HB0359Save Women’s Sports Act. Requiring public high school interscholastic and intramural junior varsity and varsity athletic teams or sports sponsored by public schools or non-public schools that compete against public schools to be expressly designated based on biological sex. Teams may be (1) a boys, male, or men’s team or sport; (2) a girls, female, or women’s team or sport; or (3) a coeducational or mixed team or sport. Prohibiting governmental bodies or accrediting organizations from taking adverse actions against a school or county Board of Education for maintaining separate interscholastic and intramural junior varsity and varsity athletic teams and sports for students of the female sex; and providing that girls have the right to bring a civil action if denied opportunity, suffers retaliation or direct harm by the school or athletic association.W&M – Hearing 2/15 at1st ReaderStrongly Support. MFRW Priority. Biological females are being required to compete against biological male athletes identifying as female.
1 p.m.; Del. Szeliga & 32 Rep. Delegates.
Resources:
Read the bill. It offers strong documentation. Read the MFRW’s “Teen Girls & Women.” Brochure.
HB0461Education. Sexual Abuse & Assault Awareness &Prevention Program – Human & Sex Trafficking.W&M – Hearing 2/15 at1st Reader
1 p.m.; Del. Johnson
HB0477Requiring, by August 1, 2024, each public senior higher education institution, in consultation with students, to develop and implement a reproductive health services plan to provide at the institution or to refer students to a comprehensive range of reproductive health services; Maryland Department of Health, on request, to provide assistance to institution in developing plan.APP – Hearing 2/14 at 1 p.m.;1st Reader
Del. Kelly & Smith.
SB0341EEE – Hearing 2/22 at 2 p.m.;1st Reader
Str. Feldman
HB 0510Maintains 1080-hour school year requirement but provides that a county board may explore the use of innovative school scheduling models, including extended year, year–round schooling, 4–day school week, or other school scheduling models that do not allow for prolonged lapses in instructional time in public schools.W&M – Hearing 2/15 at1st Reader
1 p.m.; Del. D. Jones.
SB0321EEE- Hearing 2/22 at 2 p.m.;1st Reader
Str. Beidle
HB0546Establishing the Service Year Option Program & Fund. The Dept. of Service and Civic Innovation will administer and staff the Program. Equip program participants with professional development, mentoring, job training, and other support while working in high–impact service placements. Requiring a Program participant to work at least 30 hours a week in a service placement and partner with an on–site mentor; participating employer to pay a Program participant $15/hour; authorizing the Dept. to disburse a stipend of up to $3,000 to a Program participant who completes a service placement; Allows the Dept. to accept any gift or grant to the Fund from any person.APP – Hearing 2/21 at 1 p.m.;1st ReaderGeneral fund expenditures further increase by $600,000 beginning in FY 2025 and by $3.0 million in FY 2028 to implement the program.
Speaker et al for Admin.
SB0551EEE – Hearing 2/21 at 1 p.m.;1st Reader
President for Admin.
HB0568Student led Peaceful Demonstrations. Allows students to organize and hold a nonviolent demonstration intended to express the viewpoint of a student during school time on school property or at school events or on school buses.W&M; Hearing 2/22 at 1 p.m.;1st ReaderOPPOSE. Allow disruption of class for political demonstrations when only 40% of students can read on grade level ? Demonstrations on school buses are unsafe. A similar bill passed the House last year.
Del. Ebersole et al
HB0576Requires School to report instances of bullying to parents unless it is bullying, harassment, or intimidation motivated by the alleged victim’s actual or perceived sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity. If so, notification to the parent or guardian of the alleged victim shall be at the discretion of the alleged victim.W&M – Hearing 2/22 at 1 p.m; Del. Ebersole et al.1st ReaderThe applies to elementary, middle or high school. School would withhold notice to parents of a child being bullied or intimidated over their sex.
EEE – Hearing 2/24 at 1 p.m.;
SB0629Str. Lam1st Reader
HB0737Requiring County Boards of Education by January 1 each year, based on star ratings, to notify parents of students that the school is failing and provide a list of options; establishing the Right to Learn Program to provide students in failing schools with scholarships. Establishing the Broadening Options and Opportunities for Students Today Program to provide scholarships for students eligible for free and reduced-price lunches to attend a non-public school.W&M – Hearing 2/22 at 1st Reader
1 p.m.; Del. Grrist+ 31 Rep. Dels.
HB0740Increase the number of members to 11 on Accountability Implementation Board. Require that One each be appointed from Western MD; Southern MD; Eastern Shore and 1 from each of the 5 largest counties in the State.W&M – Hearing 2/22 at 1 p.m.; Del. Ghrist et al1st Reader
HB 1241Revise and enhance required Holocaust instruction in public elementary school, middle school, and high school curricula and those of private schools receiving state assistance.Rules; Del. Attar1st Reader
EEE – Hearing 2/22 at 2 p.m.;1st Reader
SB0837Str. Kramer et al
SB0095Each year, every county board of education shall prepare a report that identifies: (1) for each public school, those areas of the county where a student who is regularly assigned to the school would be ineligible for transportation services based on the distance between a residence and the school; and (2) identify pathways that a student residing in an area may use to travel between the student’s residence and regularly assigned school using only a safe alternative route or a contiguous series of safe alternative routes; (3) and post the report to the county’s website. The County Government shall review the report and construct any sidewalks and crosswalks necessary to create safe alternative routes for students in the report.EEE; Hearing 2/08 at 1 p.m.; Str. Ellis1st Reader
SB0149Beginning in the 2024–2025 school year, each public school and nonpublic school that participates in state–funded education programs shall include in the curriculum a unit of instruction on the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. The state board shall develop guidelines for instructional content on the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks that is age–appropriate, interdisciplinary, and consistent with other required grade–level instruction.EEE; Hearing 2/08 at 1 p.m.; Str. Salling;1st Reader
SB0338Grant program for Extended School Year. Mandate $25 Million/year in budget through FY 2035. Purpose of the grant is to provide funds to develop and implement an extended school year scheduling model in public primary and secondary schools in the state.EEE & B&T; EEE Hearing 2/22 at 2 p.m.; Str. Ferguson1st Reader
SB0557If a school participates in the federal school breakfast or lunch program by providing a free or reduced price breakfast to a student, then each student in the school shall be offered a free breakfast that meets U.S. Dept. of Agriculture nutrition standards for the program.B&T – Hearing 2/22 at 1 p.m.;1st Reader
Strs. Guzzone and Zucker
SB0812Prohibiting use of Disciplinary Proceedings information in considering admitting a student to a college but allow for its use in discipline related to academic dishonesty.EEE – Hearing 2/24 at 1 p.m.;1st Reaer
Str. Mary Washington
ELECTIONS - VOTING
HB0022Requires a local board of elections to verify (1) the voter’s signature on the return ballot envelope (2) and a witness signature before removing absentee ballot from a ballot/return envelope or counting the vote. Witness exception for ballots of overseas military personnel and dependents.W&M; Hearing 1/31 at 1 p.m. Del. R. Long1st ReaderStrongly Support
HB0035VOTER ID to Vote. Requiring an election judge to establish a voter's identity by requiring the voter to present a valid government-issued photo identification or a valid nongovernment-issued photo identification and a current bill, statement or check that states the voter's name and address as proof of identity; requiring a voter to vote a provisional ballot if the voter is unable to provide proof of identity; and prohibiting a person from knowingly and willfully voting or attempting to vote under a false form of identification.W&M; Hearing 1/31 at 1 p.m.; Del. R. Long1st ReaderStrongly Support
HB0041Establish curbside voting rules for voters who cannot enter the polling place or have health conditions or pregnancy or other St. Bd. reasons for curbside voting. Requires curbside voting at EV centers & polling places. W&M – Hearing 1/31 at 1 p.m.; Del. Wilkins1st Reader
HB0114Requires a local board of elections to change a voter's registration from a Decline to affiliate with a political party when voter registration is closed if the request is received by the local board by 5 p.m. on the day before early voting begins; and the change is effective on the first day of early voting.W&M - Hearing 1/24 at 1 p.m. Del. Qi.1st Reader
EEE – Hearing 2/16 at 1 p.m.; Str. Kagan.
SB00391st Reader
HB0130Elections. Prohibits State or Local Bd. of Elections from contracting with foreign manufacture of election systems and allowing termination of contracts.W&M – Hearing 1/31 at1st Reader
1 p.m.; Del. Rosenberg
HB0176After the governing body of a county has implemented a system of public campaign financing for its executive and legislative offices for at least one complete election cycle, the governing body of the county may establish, by law, a system of public campaign financing for the offices of State’s Attorney, Sheriff, Register of Wills, Judge of the Circuit Court, Judge of the Orphans Court and the Board of Education for the county. W&M – Hearing 1/31 at1st ReaderNote: HB 213 prohibits pubic financing for the student member of a County Board of Education.
1 p.m.; Del Feldmark et al
HB0213W&M – Hearing 2/07 at1st Reader
1 p.m.; Del. Watson et al
HB0177The state board and each applicable local board shall post in a manner widely accessible to the public for at least 65 days before the general election the complete text of a State Constitution or amendment or a state law petitioned, or a county charter or amendment, etc. And prohibiting the question from appearing on the ballot unless the proposed language of the enactment has been written.W&M - Hearing 1/31 at 1 p.m.1st Reader
Del. Feldmark et al
SB0089EEE Hearing 2/16 at 1 p.m.; Str. Carter1st Reader
HB0192Prohibiting a campaign finance entity from depositing funds in a cryptocurrency account; or making or accepting contributions or donations using cryptocurrency; or a person acting on behalf of a campaign finance entity from making an expenditure using cryptocurrency. The State Board may investigate violations and refer violations to the State Prosecutor.W&M - Hearing 1/31 at 1 p.m. Del. Palakovich Carr et al1st Reader
EEE – Hearing 2/16 at 1 p.m.
SB0269Strs. Rosapepe et al1st Reader
HB0269Prohibiting a municipality from authorizing a property owner who is not a resident of the municipality to vote in a municipal election; and prohibiting a municipality from authorizing a person who is not an individual to vote in a municipal election.W&M – Hearing 2/07 at1st Reader
1 p.m.; Del. Moon & Wilkins
HB0334Ranked Choice Voting. Prohibiting the State Board of Elections from certifying a voting system unless the State Board determines that the voting system will be capable of tabulating ballots cast in an election conducted using ranked choice voting; requiring the State Board to acquire additional voting machines and independent software to tabulate ranked choice voting results if City of Takoma Park municipal elections are approved by the State Board to appear on the State ballot to mitigate additional time added to the voting process by ranked choice voting (RCV); and the city of Takoma Park is not required to reimburse the State Board or the Montgomery County Board of Elections for additional costs incurred under this subsection.W&M – Hearing 2/07 at 1 p.m.; Montgomery County Delegation1st ReaderStrongly OPPOSE.
This requirement will affect voting systems and tabulators statewide. Sets the stage for Ranked Choice Voting (RCV) statewide. Takoma Park allows non-citizens to vote in their municipal elections as do 10 other municipalities in MD. Will allow Takoma Park municipal candidates to be on the same state ballot with candidates for county, state and federal offices and increases the chance of non-citizens voting in those elections. See HB 344 for notes on RCV.
HB0344Ranked Choice Voting. Authorizing the Montgomery County Council to adopt, by law, a ranked choice voting method or an approval voting method for elections for the offices of County Executive, County Council, Judge of the Circuit Court, State’s Attorney, Register of Wills, Sheriff and Board of Education. “Approval voting” means a method of casting and tabulating votes in which voters may choose any number of candidates and the candidate chosen most often is elected. (iii) “ranked choice voting” means a method of casting and tabulating votes in which voters rank candidates in order of preference and votes are tabulated in a manner that reflects voter preference. W&M – Hearing 2/07 at1st ReaderStrongly OPPOSE. Send WRITTEN Testimony or e-mails to W&M members. This is precedent setting for the entire state. It affects constitutional offices of Sheriff and Judge of the Circuit Court and Register of Wills as well as all local offices. Will substantially increase voter wait times to vote for 3 choices for each office. Will significantly increase time to count votes. Voter fatigue will discourage voters from voting in down-ballot (local) offices such as Board of Education
1 p.m.; Montgomery County Delegation
Sponsor only for Oral Testimony
HB0410 Requires Board of Elections to hold a public meeting when considering changes in polling place locations and to notify interested groups of meeting. Also allows Bd. of Election official custodian to deny inspection temporarily of a public record beginning 90 days before a primary or general election and ending when the election is certified if the official custodian believes that inspection would cause substantial injury to the public interest by impairing the ability of the board of elections to prepare for the electionW&M – Hearing 2/14 at1st Reader
1 p.m.; Del. Rosenberg
HB0417Requiring a special election be held at the same time as the regular statewide primary and general elections held in the second year of the term to fill a vacancy in the office of Delegate or Senator in the General Assembly if the vacancy occurs before the date that is 55 days before the deadline for filing certificates of candidacy for the regular statewide election.W&M – Hearing 2/14 at1st Reader
1 p.m.; Delegate Foley
HB0441“Draft committee” means an entity organized to encourage a potential candidate to run for office but is not authorized by the potential candidate. “Exploratory Committee” means an entity established by a potential candidate for a public office to determine the potential candidate’s viability for that public office. “Exploratory Committee” does not include a political committee. Provisions that apply to a political committee also apply to a draft committee or an exploratory committee.W&M – Hearing 2/14 at1st Reader
1 p.m.; Del. E. Jones;
SB0111EEE – Hearing 2/16 at 1 p.m.;1st Reader
Str. Kagan
HB0447This section applies only to code counties and commission counties. The election of a county commissioner to represent a specific county commissioner district shall be decided by a plurality of the votes cast within that district.W&M – Hearing 2/14 at1st ReaderBill only affects Garrett County, Calvert County and St. Mary’s County.
1 p.m.; Del. Crosby
HB0535Election Law – Ballot Processes & Reporting Procedures. Authorizes local Bd to process AB starting 8 days prior to EV but not total votes till after 8 p.m. on Election Day. Bd to contact voters who fail to sign oath on AB envelope, but not Provisional ballots.W&M – Hearing 2/14 at 1 p.m.; Dels. Feldmark et al.1st ReaderOppose. Allows AB to be opened about 20 days prior to election day and be in the tabulator.
EEE – Hearing 2/16 at 1 p.m.;
SB0379Str. Kagen et al1st Reader
HB0563General Assembly Vacancy – Political Party Central Committee Nomination. Procedures – A Central Committee of a Political Party shall post online all applications to fill a vacancy promptly after receipt and remain posted until at least 30 days after committee votes to fill the vacancy. The central committee shall hold a public meeting to interview the individuals who applied to fill the vacancy. A meeting held by a central committee to discuss or vote on filling a vacancy shall be: (1) open to the public; and (2) announced at least 3 days before the meeting; and, the vote to choose an individual to fill a vacancy shall be by roll call vote or by signed ballots. A central committee member who has applied to fill the vacancy shall recuse themselves from voting on the individual to fill the vacancy.W&M – Hearing 2/21 at 1st Reader
1 p.m.; Dels. Palakovich-Carr & Griffith
SB0366
EEE – Hearing 2/16 at 1 p.m.; Str. Lam1st Reader
HB0616Adding 4 additional days of Early Voting. Require EV centers to open beginning the second Sunday, rather than the second Thursday, before a primary or general election through the Thursday before the election.W&M – Hearing 2/21 at 1st Reader
1 p.m.; Del. Barnes et al
HB0643The State Board of Elections shall extend the filing deadline for a primary election for an office other than the office of Governor or Lt. governor until 7 days after the filing deadline, if during the 48–hour period immediately preceding the deadline (1) an unopposed candidate dies, is disqualified, or withdraws; or (2) the number of candidates for a political party that have filed a candidacy for the office is less than the number of nominations the political party is allowed for the office. The same time extension is made for the office of Governor or Lt. Governor if both die, are disqualified or withdraw; but, If no candidates file for Governor and Lt. Governor by the extended deadline the State Central Committee of the Political Party shall select a candidate for the two offices.W&M – Hearing 2/21 at 1p.m.; Dels. Grossman et al1st Reader
EEE; Hearing 2/16 at 1 p.m.; Str. Kagan
SB01761st Reader
HB0645Requiring the Department of Legislative Services to complete a study on the creation of an electronic ballot return system on or before December 1, 2023; and requiring the State Board of Elections to issue a request for proposals for an electronic ballot return system on or before January 1, 2024.W&M; Del. Feldmark et al.1st Reader
SB0488EEE Hearing 2/24 at 1 p.m.;
Str. Brooks, et al
SB0132Requiring State's Attorneys, Clerks of the Circuit Court, Registers of Wills, Sheriffs, and Judges of the Orphans' Court to be elected on a non-partisan basis; and establishing procedures for their nomination and election on a nonpartisan basis.JPC & EEE – Hearing cancelled; Str. Jackson1st ReaderStrongly Oppose. Reduces voters’ choices. Reduces opportunity for Republican or other minority party or unaffiliated candidates to compete in the General Election.
SB0195Requiring that candidates for judge of the orphans' court appear on the ballot without party designation.JPC- Hearing 2/09 at 1 p.m.; Str. West1st ReaderOppose. See also SB 132
SB0329Election Law - Prohibiting a person from willfully or knowingly casting a ballot in a general election in more than one state in the same year.EEE – Hearing 2/16 at 1 p.m.;1st Reader
Str. Ready et al
SB0864Prohibiting a person from knowingly and willfully making a threat to take the life of, kidnap, or cause physical injury to a county election director; Requiring a contractor to notify the Board if any parts of election system are foreign made; requiring judges of the circuit courts to be elected on a nonpartisan basis; establishing procedures for nominating and election Electors for Presidential Elections; prohibiting a stray mark, blemish, or writing from being the sole basis for invalidating a ballot under certain circumstances; etcEEE – Hearing 2/24 at 1 p.m.;1st Reader
Str. Kagan
ENERGY – ENVIRONMENT -- ECONOMY
HB0101Grant easements for Clean Energy equipment for common elements of condominiums including electric vehicle recharging equipment and solar, geothermal, or other energy–efficient equipment used for heating, cooling, or lighting. Requires approval of 2/3 owners.ENT-Hearing 1/26 at 2 p.m.1st Reader
Del. Charkoudian
HB0112Establish an Equitable & Inclusive Transit-Oriented Dev. Fund to consist of Federal Block grants, State funds and require a $10 million/year budget mandate. The fund to be used to promote equitable and inclusive development of residential and commercial facilities near transit–oriented developments throughout the state, with preference for locations in low-income and minority communities.ENT -Hearing 2/02 at 1 p.m.;1st Reader
Del. J. Lewis
SB0019FIN – Hearing 2/01 at1st Reader
2:30 p.m.; Str. Carter
HB0147Require counties to develop a Climate Crisis Plan to require all electric homes, businesses, etc. Increase use of renewable energy. Require all vehicles, buses, etc. to be zero emissions. Conduct a baseline greenhouse gas emissions inventory of existing conditions in the county and establish greenhouse gas reduction targets for the county. Submit plan to MD Dept. Environment and update every 3 years. Make changes per MDE.ENT – Hearing 2/08 at1st ReaderOppose. Excessive. Does not promote a balanced energy policy to promote multiple, reliable and affordable energy choices.
1:30 p.m.; Del. Fraser-Hidalgo
SB0250EEE – Hearing 2/09 at 1 p.m.;1st Reader
Str. Kramer
HB0169Require Dept of Housing & Community Development to procure or provide for low-income electricity customers energy efficiency and conservation programs and services designed to achieve at least a target annual incremental gross energy savings of .53% for 2024; .72% in 2025 and 1% in 2026 program cycle. Requiring the Department to update the weather-normalized gross retail sales against which savings are measured for EmPower MD Surcharge and U.S. Dept. of Energy programs. Establishes the Green and Healthy Task Force, staffed by DHCD and several reporting and planning requirements to include DHCD developing a plan to provide energy efficiency retrofits to all low-income households by 2030. On or before September 1, 2023, the DHCD shall submit a plan to the Public Service Commission that details proposals for achieving the electricity savings and demand reduction target for 2024 and update every 3 years thereafter.ECM-Hearing 3/02 at 1 p.m.; Del. Charkoudian;1st ReaderNote: A low-income program is one that delivers energy efficiency & conservation measures to reduce utility expenses for building owners, managers and tenants with residents who qualify for low-income assistance programs.
Last year’s bill was vetoed by Gov. Hogan as too costly to MD ratepayers. The Fiscal Note stated cost would increase from $26.9 Million in FY 23 to $219.8M in FY 2027. EmPOWER MD surcharge is assessed on all electricity customers including state, local govt’s. and small businesses to pay for these programs.
SB0144EEE – Hearing 1/31 at 2 p.m.; Str. Feldman1st Reader
HB0190Establish the Homeowner’s Extreme Weather Mitigation and Preparation Grant Program in the Department of Housing and Community Development to assist homeowners ($5,000 grant), local governments ($50,000 grant) and nonprofit organizations in preparing and repairing single-family residential properties to mitigate water damage caused by extreme weather; and generally relating to the Homeowner’s Extreme Weather Mitigation and Preparation Grant Program.ENT – Hearing 2/07 at 1 p.m.; Del. Ivey;1st Reader
SB0077EEE – Hearing 1/26 at 3 p.m.;1st Reader
Str. Jackson
HB0198Wastewater Treatment Plants. Requiring an independent third party to oversee all water quality testing conducted at a wastewater treatment plant that falsifies or does not accurately report water quality test results to the Department of the Environment or is experiencing a catastrophic or continuing mechanical failure of operational equipment. Requires the Department to select the independent third party.ENT- Hearing 2/02 at1st Reader
1:30 p.m.; Del. R. Long.
HB0230Requiring the Department of the Environment to adopt regulations on or before December 1, 2023, establishing requirements for the sale of new zero-emission medium- and heavy-duty vehicles in the State; defining a "heavy-duty vehicle" as one with a gross vehicle weight rating equal to or greater than 14,001 pounds; and incorporating by reference California’s Air Resources Bd’s Vehicle Standards as revised and updated.ENT – Hearing 2/08 at1st Reader Oppose. Note: In Dec. 2022 California asked its residents not to charge their electric vehicles during certain hours. What would happen if all vehicles were electric? CA has had wildfires due to poorly maintained electric grid.
1:30 p.m.; Del. Love et al.Maryland should separate itself from California’s vehicle standards.
SB0224EEE – Hearing 2/09 at 1 p.m.;1st Reader
Str. Augustine et al
HB0239Establishing the Accessory Dwelling Unit Promotion and Policy Task Force to study state & local govt. efforts to promote creation of accessory dwelling units on land zoned for single–family residential use & make legislative or other policy recommendations, that promote and encourage the creation and operation of accessory dwelling units on land zoned for single–family residential use.ENT – Hearing 2/07 at 1 p.m.; Del. J. Long et al1st ReaderCurrently decisions on accessory dwelling units are made by the county.
EEE- Hearing 2/21 at 1 p.m.; Str. M. Washington;
SB03821st Reader
HB0261Public Projects – Global Warming Potential of Materials (Buy Clean Maryland Act). By January 1, 2025, the Dept. of General Services shall establish a maximum acceptable global warming potential for each category of eligible materials. Defines eligible materials as any cement or concrete mixture used in construction of a public project. “Global warming potential” means the degree a given mass of a chemical contributes to global warming over a given time period when compared to the same mass of carbon dioxide.HGO – Hearing 2/22 at 1 p.m.;1st Reader
Del. Kerr.
SB0424B&T – Hearing 2/22 at 1 p.m.;1st Reader
Strs. Elfreth and Feldman
HB0310Environment & Energy – Investment in communities with low-to-moderate income households (80 % of average median income for the state.) Require by 2025 that 40% of overall spending on programs, projects, and investments in green infrastructure; climate change; clean energy & energy efficiency; clean transportation; affordable and sustainable housing; training and related workforce development benefit communities with low moderate–income households.ENT – Hearing 2/15 at 1 p.m.;1st Reader
Del. Rosenberg
HB0347Authorizing Attorney General - Climate Change Actions.HGO- Hearing 2/22 at 1 p.m.;1st Reader
Del. Ruth
HB0487Affordable Emissions Standards Act of 2023. Prohibiting the Dept of Environment from adopting the California Clean Cars II regulations to implement new motor vehicle emissions standards & compliance requirements adopted by the California Air Resources Board unless analyses are prepared of the impact on consumers and small businesses, the state budget and whether the electric grid in the State is capable of accommodating the additional load of vehicle electrification and report submitted to the General Assembly and the General Assembly enacts a law authorizing the adoption of the regulations.ENT & ECM; ENT Hearing 2/24 at 1 p.m.; Del. Buckel and ALL Republican Delegates1st ReaderSupport. Requires analysis of electric transmission capacity. Maryland should not depend on California’s laws for decisions on climate or energy.
California has had electricity black outs; Fatal wildfires from failed electric transmission equipment and water shortages from their political decisions.
HB0830All new residential construction or significant renovation must install electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) for charging electric vehicles.ENT – Hearing 2/28 at 1 p.m.1st Reader
Del. Terrasa et al
SB0477EEE – Hearing 2/14 at 1 p.m.;1st Reader
Str. Feldman
SB0081Labor and Employment – State Minimum Wage Rate – Acceleration (Fight for Fifteen Acceleration Act of 2023). Raise minimum wage to $13.40/hour on July 1, 2023 and $15.00/hour on July 1, 2024.FIN; Str. WaldstreicherFIN. Unfavorable Report-Withdrawn
SB0170Energy Generating Plants. “Covered project” means a generation station with a cumulative nameplate capacity of 2 megawatts or more for which the Public Service Commission has approved: (i) a certificate of public convenience and necessity under § 7–207 of the public utilities article; or (ii) an exemption. A “covered project” does not include an off–shore wind project. Sets conditions for employment of contractors using the prevailing wage rate for each category of workers and forbids strikes, lockouts, etc.FIN – Hearing 2/09 at 1 p.m.;1st Reader
Str. Feldman
SB0186Establish a Green & Renewable Energy for Non-profit Organizations Loan Program. “Qualifying energy system” means a system that: (1) generates electricity or usable thermal energy used to meet onsite demand; (2) assists the state in meeting the greenhouse gas reduction goals. MD Energy Comsn. to set selection requirements including preference for organizations that own rather than rent a building; geographic and racial/ethnic diversity; economic diversity; and organization mission diversity. Set repayment rules. Governor shall include $5 million/year in budget.B&T- Hearing 1/25 at 2 p.m.;1st Reader
Str. Kagan
HEALTH RELATED
HB0025Health Maryland Program – Establish a comprehensive universal single-payer health coverage system & cost control system for every Maryland resident REGARDLESS of IMMIGRATION STATUS. The state w/seek waivers & other approvals relating to Medicaid, the Maryland Children’s Health Insurance program, Medicare, the Affordable Care Act, & any other federal programs related to provision of health care so that any federal funds & other subsidies that would be paid to the state, state residents, & health care providers are paid to the state & deposited to Healthy Maryland Trust Fund for providing health care coverage. Employer payroll fee possible. Establishes a Board to implement.HGO -Hearing 3/16 at 1 p.m.; Del. Acevero1st ReaderNot sure if this affects Federal employee health plans.
HB0048Maryland Medical Assistance Program Collaborative Model. Repealing the Collaborative Care Pilot Program; and requiring the Maryland Dept. of Health to expand access to and provide reimbursement for services provided according to the Collaborative Care Model under the Maryland Medical Assistance Program.HGO – Hearing is 2/07 at1st ReaderMedicaid expenditures increase by about $15.7 million (61% federal funds, 39% general funds) in FY 2024 & $20.9 million a year after. Fiscal Note says the impact on small businesses is meaningful.
3 p.m.; Del Bagnall.
SB0101FIN – Hearing 1/31 at 1 p.m.;1st Reader
Str. Augustine
HB0082School Based Behavioral Health Programs. By 12/23 seek a State Plan Amendment from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Programs for reimbursement (to the maximum extent permitted) for medically necessary behavioral health services provided in a school setting to all individuals enrolled in these programs or the MD CHIP regardless of whether services are provided under an individualized educational program or individualized family service plan by a mental health provider working within their scope of practice, including: school counselors, psychologists, social workers, nurses, and other behavioral health professionals and paraprofessionals certified by the MD State Dept. of Education; and marriage and family therapists licensed under title 17 of the health occupations article.HGO – Hearing 2/14 at 1 p.m.; Dels. Charkoudin & Cullison.1st ReaderReminder: SB 41 of 2021 lowered age to 12 years old that a minor is considered mature enough to give informed consent to consultation, diagnosis and treatment for mental or emotional disorders. Health care provider may withhold info from parent if they think disclosure will lead to harm or deter the minor from seeking care. Likely related to the Left’s push for sexual identity transition care (drugs & surgery) for “Gender dysphoria”. Read: Irreversible Damage by Abigail Shrier.
FIN – Hearing 2/07 at 1 p.m.
SB0201Str. Hester1st Reader
HB0111Requiring Maryland Dept. of Health to establish an Express Lane Eligibility Program by January 1, 2025, subject to budget limits, to (1) automatically enroll individuals in the Maryland Medical Assistance Program & the Maryland Children's Health Program based on eligibility findings by the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program; & not consider other income or eligibility requirements. (2) Requiring the Dept. of Human Services to enroll any individual who meets the financial eligibility requirements of the dept. for a recipient of Supplemental Security Income, in the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program; and (3) requiring the Office of Home Energy Programs to enroll in any fuel and utility assistance program any individual who meets the financial eligibility requirements for a recipient of: 1. the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program; 2. Temporary Assistance for Needy Families; 3. Supplemental Security Income; or 4. Means–tested Veterans Affairs Benefits.HGO- Hearing 2/07 at 3 p.m.;1st ReaderAutomatically enrolls individuals eligible for one assistance program in the remaining programs for which they are eligible.
Del Charkoudin
SB0026FIN – Hearing 2/02 at 1 p.m.1st Reader
Str. Augustine
HB 0119Primary & Secondary Education –Requires State Dept of Education with the State Dept. of Health to develop a Comprehensive Health Education Framework; local Bds of Ed. to develop age-appropriate health education curriculum for each grade and provide a parent opt out for Family Life-Human Sexuality and/or Gender Identity and Sexual Preference topics but not for topics related to HIV or AIDs prevention.W&M – Hearing 2/01 at 1 p.m. Del. Atterbeary1st Reader See Education topic for more comments.
EEE – Hearing 2/08 at 1 p.m.; Str. Lam
SB01991st Reader
HB0214Establish a Commission on Public Health to do an assessment of foundational public health services in the State and consider the following factors: The state’s response to covid–19; The state’s response to overdose deaths; Racial and ethnic disparities in maternal mortality and birth outcomes in the state; and up to 3 other factors they deem appropriate. Commission to hold 3 public meetings in different areas of the state to receive public comments. Submit a report of recommendations to the Governor & Legislature by October 1, 2025.HGO – Hearing 1/26 at 3 p.m.HGO Favorable w/amend. Rpt.The Commission members are mostly medical, public health and university officials, but includes: “a state business leader with demonstrated expertise in improving population health in all jurisdictions in the state.”
Del. Kelly et al
SB0281FIN – Hearing 2/15 at 1 p.m.;1st Reader
Str. Lam, et al
HB0271Mandating the budget bill for fiscal year 2025 include an appropriation of $12,000,000 to the 9-8-8 Trust Fund for designating and maintaining 9-8-8 as the universal telephone number for a national suicide prevention and mental health crisis hotline and for developing and implementing a statewide initiative for the coordination and delivery of behavioral health crisis response services in the State.HGO – Hearing 2/07 at 1 p.m.;1st Reader
Del. Kelly and Bagnall
SB0003B&T – Hearing 1/19;Passed 3rd Reader
HGO -(46-0);
1st Reader in HGO
HB0278Health Occupations – Clinical Nurse Specialists – Prescribing.HGO – Hearing 2/22 at 1 p.m.;1st ReaderThis legislation will expand the authority of Clinical Nurse Specialists and allow the State Bd. of Nursing to further expand their authorized area of practice.
“Clinical nurse specialist” means an individual who is: (i) licensed by the State Board of Nursing to practice registered nursing; (ii) certified by the board to practice as a clinical nurse specialist (CNS); and (iii) authorized to prescribe drugs and durable medical equipment under regulations adopted by the Board. (i) To “practice as a clinical nurse specialist” means to: 1. Provide direct care to patients with complex needs; 2. Act as a consultant to another health care provider as needed; 3. Conduct health–related research; and 4. Provide education and guidance for staff nurses. (ii) “practice as a CNS includes: 1. Ordering, performing, and interpreting laboratory tests; 2. Ordering diagnostic tests and using the findings or results in the care of patients; 3. Prescribing drugs and durable medical equipment as provided under paragraph (2)(iii) of this subsection; 4. Ordering home health and hospice care; and 5. Initiating, monitoring, and altering appropriate therapies or treatments. (b) practice as a CNS is governed by rules and regulations that are adopted under § 8–205 of this title and that concern additional acts in the practice of registered nursing.Del. Cullison
Likely to increase the move from having physicians provide medical care to first requiring patients to see a nurse practitioner or physician assistant.
Raises concerns regarding both Abortion and assisted suicide.
SB0213FIN – Hearing 2/14 at 1 p.m.;1st Reader
Str. EllisProvide clinical training appears to fit within the HB 937 of 2022 to provide training for non-physicians to perform abortions.
HB0283MD Medical Assistance Program – Gender Affirming Surgery. No categories may be excluded. To provide all recipients of the program gender–affirming treatment if medically necessary, including transgender, nonbinary, intersex, two–spirit, and other gender diverse individuals. Require annual report of facilities geographical locations that provide treatments and their location posted on web site of the MD Dept. of Health & each managed care provider.HGO – Hearing 2/14 at 1 p.m.;1st ReaderOppose. Does not exclude children or teens under 21 yrs. from puberty blockers, cross sex hormones or surgery to remove breasts or reproductive organs for Sexual Dysphoria or Sexual Identity.
Del. Kaiser & 57 Dem. Del.;
SB0460FIN – Hearing 2/28 at 1 p.m.;1st Reader
Strs M. Washington et al
HB0287FOR the purpose of repealing the prohibition on an individual from knowingly transferring or attempting to transfer the human immunodeficiency virus to another individual; and generally relating to transfer of human immunodeficiency virus.JUD – Hearing 2/07 at 1 p.m.;1st Reader
Del. Fair
HB0329Establishing the Commission on Universal Health Care to develop a plan for the State, by July 1, 2026, to establish a universal health care program to provide health benefits to all residents of the State through a single-payer system.HGO-Hearing 3/16 at 1 p.m.; Del. Ruth et al1st Reader
HB0356Requiring each public institution of higher education to adopt a policy related to pregnant and parenting students that is consistent with Title IX of the federal Higher Education Act; and requiring each public institution to post the policy on their website.APP – Hearing 2/14 at 1 p.m.1st Reader
Del. Healey et al
HB0361Birth Certificates – Issuance of new certificate – sex designation (Birth Certificate Modernization Act.)HGO – Hearing 2/21 at 1 p.m.;1st ReaderNew birth certificate cannot state amended or revised.
Del. Smith
HB0363Requiring MD Health Benefit Exchange & the MD Dept. of Health to develop a report by Oct. 31, 2023 comparing options for offering affordable health care coverage to State residents who are ineligible for the Maryland Medical Assistance Program, the Maryland Children's Health Program, or qualified health plans due to the individuals' immigration status;HGO- Hearing 2/16 at 1 p.m.;1st Reader
Del. Cullison
HB0454Health Occupations Certification of Immigrants.HGO- Hearing 2/22 at 1 p.m.; Del. Lopez1st ReaderOppose. SB 187 will allow illegal immigrants to be certified for any health occupation license or certification and compete against Americans for employment. Authorizes the use of a Tax ID number in place of a Social Security Number. Circumvents Federal law of hiring illegal immigrants.
Require each applicant for a license to disclose and record the social security number or individual taxpayer identification number of the applicant. “Immigrant” means an individual: (1) whose country of origin is other than the United States; (2) who is not a citizen of the United States; and (3) who is a resident of the state. A health occupations board may not deny a license, certification, or registration to an immigrant if the individual otherwise meets all educational, training, or professional requirements for licensure, certification, or registration
FIN - Hearing 2/07 at 1 p.m.; Str. Kagan1st Reader
SB0187
HB0477All Senior Higher Education Institutions to provide or refer to off–campus services for obtaining: 1. All methods of federal FDA–approved contraception, including prescription emergency contraception; 2. Prevention and treatment services for sexually transmitted infections, including HIV prevention; and 3. Abortion care services; 24–hour access to over–the–counter contraception at the student health center, retail establishments on campus, or vending machines; (iii) the availability of evidence–based reproductive health education services provided by student health center, peer educators, or other health education programs; (iv) develop a referral network of off–campus reproductive health services providers, including pharmacies, located within proximity to the campus; and (v) access to transportation or other wraparound services to support students using off–campus reproductive health services.APP and HGO – APP Hearing 2/14 at 1 p.m.;1st Reader
Del. Kelly & Smith.
EEE – Hearing 2/22 at 2 p.m.;
SB0341Str. Feldman1st Reader
HB0588Insurance. “Qualified resident” means an individual, including a minor, regardless of immigration status, who (1) is seeking to enroll in a qualified health plan offered to individuals through the exchange; (2) resides in the state; (3) is not incarcerated, other than incarceration pending disposition of charges; and (4) is not eligible for other health insurance programs.HGO- Hearing 2/23 at 1 p.m.;1sr Reader
Dels. Cullison et al
SB0365FIN – Hearing 2/14 at 1 p.m.;1st Reader
Str. Lam
HB0785Exception to Step Therapy or Fail First Protocol for treatment of mental disorder or condition.HGO Hearing 3/02 at 1 p.m.1st Reader
Del. S. Johnson & White
SB0515FIN – Hearing 2/22 at 1 p.m;1st Reader
Str. Lam
HB1232Emergency Bill: A pharmacist may order and administer a vaccination to an individual who is at least 3 years old but under 18 years if (1) the vaccine is listed in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Recommended Immunization Schedule; (2) the vaccine is approved or authorized by the U.S. food and drug administration; (ii) the pharmacist has completed a practical training 8 program of at least 20 hours that is approved by the accreditation council for pharmacy education and informs the child and accompanying caregiver of the importance of well-child visits with a physician.Rules – Del. Lopez1st ReaderNo mention of parental consent or parent accompanying child.
Only mentions a caregiver who accompanies the child. Strange.
SB 0372FIN; Hearing 2/28 at 1 p.m.;1st Reader
Str. Augustine
SB0378Authorizes 14-year-old to consent to receive vaccines without parental notice or consent. It prohibits disclosing vaccine unless the minor agrees. BUT states the same 14-year-old cannot refuse vaccine if parent approves of receiving itFIN – Hearing 2/22 at 1 p.m.; Str. Kagan1st ReaderOPPOSE – Irresponsible to prohibit notification to parent. What happens if there is an adverse event?
LIFE ISSUES
HB0705Constitutional Amendment – Amend the Declaration of Rights to add a Right to Reproductive Freedom. HGO – Hearing 2/21 at 1 p.m.;1st ReaderOPPOSE. Very broad. Not limited to adults. No protection for preborn baby who survives abortion. Or from a perinatal death due to Failure to Act (HB 626-2022). May allow a minor to seek “gender-affirming” surgery.
Every person, as a central component of an individual’s rights to liberty and equality, has the fundamental right to reproductive freedom, including but not limited to the ability to make and effectuate decisions to prevent, continue or end one’s own pregnancy. The State may not, directly or indirectly, deny, burden or abridge the right unless justified by a compelling State interest achieved by the lease restrictive means.Spkr. Jones and 80 Dems.Dictionary defines “Liberty” as freedom from arbitrary or despotic gov’t. control.
The ballot language will read: “The proposed amendment confirms an individual’s fundamental right to an individual’s own reproductive liberty & provides the State may not, directly or indirectly, deny, burden, or abridge the right unless …”“Freedom” is defined as the state of being free rather than in confinment; exemption from external control.
SB0798
FIN – Hearing 3/01 at 1 p.m.;
Str. Ferguson + 20 Dem. Strs.
HB0933End of Life Options Act – Allows a mentally competent adult to request “aid in dying”, a prescription for lethal drugs, from a physician if the person has been diagnosed as “likely to die within 6 months.” Person must be able to self-administer. Procedures and forms detailed. Not considered suicide for insurance purposes. Unclear in Pharmacist is covered by exemption to participation.HGO – Del. Pena-Melnyk et al1st ReaderOPPOSE. Very slippery slope –
Examples: In some states terminally-ill patients are denied chemo and prescribed drugs to end life.
SB0845JPC -Str. Waldestricher et al1st ReaderCanada issues drugs to end life to people who are too poor.
SECOND AMENDMENT – FIREARMS RELATED
HB0159Allows for police officer to arrest without a warrant a person who is knowingly a participant in a straw purchase of a regulated firearm for a minor or a person prohibited from possession of a regulated firearm under § 5–141 of the public safety article.JUD – Hearing 1/31 at 1 p.m.1st Reader
HB0162Requires the MD State Police Dept. to establish and maintain the MD Voluntary Do Not Sell Firearm Registry in which a person may voluntarily enroll for the purpose of being prohibited from obtaining a firearm. A person can request removal from the list.JUD – Hearing 2/01 at 2:30 p.m.; Del. Moon et al.1st Reader
JPC – Hearing 2/07 at 1 p.m.; Str. Hettleman1st Reader
SB0159
HB0259Civil Actions – Public Nuisances – Firearms. “Firearm industry member” is a person engaged in the sale, manufacture, distribution, importation, or marketing of a firearm–related product (a firearm, ammunition, a component or part of a firearm, or a firearm accessory) sold, manufactured, distributed, or marketed in the state. They must institute “reasonable controls” for their products. The Attorney General may bring an action against a firearm industry member for a public nuisance caused by a violation or a person may bring an action for damages for injury or loss sustained as a result of a violation of this section.JUD – Hearing 2/01 at1st ReaderOppose. Very extreme.
2:30 p.m.; Dels. Atterbeary & Rosenberg.
JPC – Hearing 2/07 at 1 p.m.;
SB 0113Str. Waldestreicher1st Reader
HB0307Firearm Safety storage requirements - a person may not store or leave a firearm in a location where: (i) the person knew or reasonably should have known that a prohibited person or an unsupervised minor is likely to gain access to the firearm. Requires that both the firearm and ammunition be securely locked.JUD – Hearing 2/15 at 1 p.m.;1st ReaderNote: SB 656 adds a provision covering a person under guardianship.
Del. Bartlett et al.
SB0858JPC – Hearing 2/21 at 1p.m.;1st Reader
Str. Smith
SB0656JPC – 2/21 at 1 p.m.;1st Reader
Str. Carter
HB0364Public Safety – Handgun Permit Requirement Repeal. (Maryland Constitutional Carry Act of 2023).JUD – 2/08 at 1 p.m.;1st Reader
Del. Grammer
HB0413Providing that a person may not be denied the right to purchase, possess, or carry a firearm solely on the basis that the person is authorized to use medical cannabis.JUD – Hearing 2/08 at 1 p.m.;1st Reader
Del. Grammer et al
HB0481Criminal Law – Wearing, Carrying or Transporting a handgun. Increasing, from 3 years to 5 years, the maximum term of imprisonment that may be imposed for wearing, carrying, or transporting a handgun.JUD -Hearing 2/15 at 1 p.m.;1st Reader
Del. Conaway
SB0889Sen. Rules; Str. McCray1st Reader
SB0001Criminal Law: Firearms – Prohibits knowingly wearing, carrying or transporting a firearm within 100 feet of a place of public accommodation; any property owned by state or local subdivision or private property without express permission of the owner to the individual or to the public generally.JPC – Hearing 2/07 at 1 p.m.1st ReaderOppose. It appears the only places left are your own home or a place of worship.
Str. Waldstreicher
TRANSPORTATION
HB0009Equity in Transportation Sector Guidelines & Analysis. The 2024 attainment report on transportation system performance shall recommend measurable transportation indicators for racial and ethnic disparities & impacts on persons with disabilities. The administration shall develop transit equity analysis policies and guidelines with thresholds if a reduction or cancellation of a capital expansion project in the construction program of the Consolidated Transportation Program requires analysis for disproportionate burden or disparate impact and to conduct a transit equity analysis and alternatives.ENT – Hearing 2/02 at 1 p.m.;1st Reader
Del Ruth et al
SB0019FIN – Hearing 2/01 at 1 p.m.;
Str. Carter
HB0051Modifies provisions to MDOT’s issuance of bonds backed by future federal transit aid. MDOT may issue bonds backed by future federal aid not to exceed $750 million in aggregate outstanding & unpaid debt principal as of June 30 of any year. Proceeds only to be used for: design/construction of Baltimore Red Line; electric bus purchases & related infrastructure; or to rehabilitate/replace Susquehanna River Rail Bridge; replace Baltimore and Potomac Tunnel with Frederick Douglass Tunnel; develop/construction of Southern Maryland Rapid Transit Corridor; or improving capacity of service on Brunswick, Camden, or Penn Lines of MARC rail system.APP- Hearing 1/24 at 1 p.m.;1st Reader
Del. Korman
SB0024B&T- Hearing 1/19 at1st Reader
1:30 p.m.; Str. McCray
SB0117The State Highway Administration shall, twice a month during growing season, first, collect litter and then mow the grass along state highways and the interstate highways that the Administration is responsible for maintaining. During the non-growing season collect litter twice a month weather permitting. The SHA shall contract with Maryland companies for these services and give preference to companies located in the county where mowing is to occur and to companies who hire formerly incarcerated individuals. FIN – Hearing 2/01 at 1 p.m.;1st Reader
Str. Ellis