Bill > HB93

This bill establishes a comprehensive Homeless Shelter Certification Program in Maryland, requiring all homeless shelters to obtain certification from the Department of Housing and Community Development before operating. The program mandates that shelters meet extensive operational standards, including nondiscrimination policies, resident rights protections, and minimum facility requirements. Shelters must participate in the Homeless Management Information System, follow a centralized assessment process, and cannot deny services based on characteristics like race, sexual orientation, gender identity, or criminal history (with limited exceptions). The certification process involves a tiered system based on shelter size, service type, and intensity, with shelters required to apply for initial certification and undergo recertification every two years. The Department will establish detailed regulations covering everything from staffing and resident screening to health and safety protocols, and will develop a shelter resident bill of rights. Shelters that operate without certification or violate regulations can face administrative penalties up to $10,000 per violation. The bill provides shelters at least 12 months from regulation adoption to achieve compliance, with potential case-by-case extensions for good cause, and aims to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Transportation and Infrastructure

Environment and Transportation (House)

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0093?ys=2025RS