Bill > HB558

This bill establishes a framework for local commissions on common ownership communities (COCs) in Maryland counties, providing comprehensive guidelines for their formation, composition, and operation. The bill defines key terms like "common ownership community" (which includes condominiums, cooperative housing corporations, and homeowners associations), "dispute" (covering various disagreements about community governance), and "local commission" (a county-established commission overseeing these communities). The local commission must include members who are COC owners and representatives from related professions, with some non-voting government agency representatives. Members cannot serve more than two consecutive terms and will not receive compensation but can be reimbursed for expenses. The commission's responsibilities include examining the needs of COCs, advising government agencies, providing training for community leaders, and establishing a dispute resolution process. COCs must register annually with the local commission, and the commission can collect reasonable fees to cover its operations. The bill also outlines a detailed dispute resolution mechanism, including mediation and hearings, with provisions for investigating disputes, holding hearings, and potentially enforcing decisions through legal actions. The local government must also designate an agency to provide educational materials, maintain community information, and offer technical assistance to COCs. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2025.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0558?ys=2025RS