Bill > HB242

This bill aims to protect renters by prohibiting landlords from using consumer credit history as a basis for discrimination in housing-related transactions. The bill defines "consumer credit history" as any written account by a credit reporting agency about a person's creditworthiness, including credit reports and credit scores. It modifies existing Maryland law to add consumer credit history to the list of protected characteristics in housing, making it illegal for landlords to refuse to rent, negotiate, or provide housing services based on a person's credit history. The bill also introduces provisions for "reusable tenant screening reports," which must contain information about criminal history, eviction history, employment verification, and current address, but explicitly cannot include consumer credit history. Landlords who accept these reports cannot charge fees for accessing the report or for the application. Additionally, landlords must notify prospective tenants whether they accept reusable tenant screening reports and can require tenants to certify that there have been no material changes to the report. The law will take effect on October 1, 2025, and does not limit other existing rights or remedies for landlords or tenants.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0242?ys=2025RS