Bill > SB154

This bill extends and modifies Maryland's Access to Counsel in Evictions program through fiscal year 2028. It makes several key changes, including transferring oversight of the Access to Counsel in Evictions Task Force from the Attorney General's Office to the Secretary of Housing and Community Development. The bill continues the annual distribution of $14 million from abandoned property funds to the Access to Counsel in Evictions Special Fund, which is administered by the Maryland Legal Services Corporation (MLSC). The Task Force's responsibilities remain focused on evaluating legal service provisions for tenants facing eviction, studying potential funding sources, and making recommendations to improve the program. A notable change is that tenant members of the Task Force who earn less than 50% of the state median income may now receive reasonable compensation, including a stipend. The bill also updates reporting requirements, with the Task Force now required to submit its findings and recommendations to the Governor and General Assembly by January 1, 2026, instead of annually. These provisions aim to continue supporting legal representation for low-income tenants in eviction proceedings and improve the program's administration and effectiveness.

Budget and Finance

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0154?ys=2025RS