Bill > HB28

This bill proposes a constitutional amendment requiring all Maryland counties and Baltimore City to adopt a charter form of government by December 31, 2031. Under the new requirements, counties must establish a charter that provides for the election of both a county executive and county council members. Starting January 1, 2026, counties not already operating under a charter must appoint a charter board consisting of 5-9 registered voters who will develop a proposed charter within 18 months. The board of county commissioners will then review the proposed charter, with provisions for revision if initially rejected. If approved, the charter becomes effective 30 days after the commissioners' vote. The bill mandates that county council members will be elected by district, removing previous language that allowed for at-large or combined election methods. Additionally, the bill specifies that existing home rule provisions for code counties will remain in effect only until each county adopts a charter. The proposed constitutional amendment will be submitted to Maryland voters for approval at the November 2026 general election.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0028?ys=2025RS