Bill > HB557

This bill establishes a comprehensive Bill of Rights for residential owners in common ownership communities such as condominiums, cooperative housing corporations, and homeowners associations. The bill defines key terms and outlines 15 fundamental rights for residents, including the right to be designated as a community member, participate in community meetings, receive an annual budget that prioritizes resident needs, and use community facilities at a reasonable cost. Residents are granted voting rights for electing governing body members, recalling incumbents, and potentially voting on financial matters and capital projects. The bill ensures residents have the right to receive advance notice of meetings, participate remotely, speak during discussions, and have access to community documents. Additionally, residents are guaranteed fair treatment in violation proceedings, protection of individual privacy, prompt non-discriminatory service, and the right to be informed about proposed changes to governing documents. Notably, the bill empowers the Consumer Protection Division of the Maryland Attorney General's Office to review potential violations of common ownership community laws and take enforcement actions on behalf of residential owners. The legislation is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, and explicitly states that the enumerated rights should not be interpreted as limiting other potential rights of residential owners.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0557?ys=2025RS