Bill > HB74

This bill modifies the legal requirements for publishing legal advertisements and notices in Maryland, expanding the definition of "newspaper" and providing more flexible options for publication. The bill stipulates that legal notices must now be published in both print and digital formats, with the publication period starting when the notice first appears in either format. If no traditional print publication meets the existing qualifications, digital publications can be used, provided they regularly contain local news and information for the specific county or municipality. Additionally, any digital publication publishing legal notices must maintain a public archive of those notices and employ at least one staff member dedicated to reporting, writing, or editing local news. The bill specifically updates the criteria for what constitutes a "newspaper in general circulation," removing some previous restrictive requirements like having at least four pages and qualifying for Periodicals postal rates. The changes will take effect on October 1, 2025, and aim to modernize and expand the ways local governments can communicate important legal information to the public by embracing digital media alongside traditional print publications.

Justice

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0074?ys=2025RS