Bill > HB306

This bill establishes a comprehensive framework for supporting and regulating common ownership communities (COCs), which include condominiums, cooperative housing corporations, and homeowners associations. The bill creates a Common Ownership Community Ombudsman Unit within the Office of the Attorney General to monitor laws, provide information, assist members in understanding their rights, and help resolve conflicts. The Ombudsman will receive and respond to complaints about final adverse decisions by governing bodies, either referring them to local commissions or making determinations about potential legal conflicts. Additionally, the bill requires COCs to file their governing documents with the Department of Housing and Community Development, which will create a public database of these documents. The legislation also provides guidelines for establishing local commissions on common ownership communities in counties, specifying their composition, duties, and dispute resolution processes. These local commissions will have the authority to hear disputes between COC members and governing bodies, offer mediation, conduct hearings, and provide educational resources about community governance. The bill aims to improve transparency, communication, and conflict resolution within common ownership communities by creating standardized support structures and processes. The provisions will take effect on July 1, 2025.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0306?ys=2025RS