Bill > SB558

This bill modifies Maryland state law to require a comprehensive "family impact statement" as part of fiscal notes for proposed legislation. Specifically, the bill defines key terms like "family" (which includes spouses, children, parents, siblings, legal guardians, and wards), "family formation" (creation of familial relations), and "marriage and family stability" (functioning of marital or family relationships). The legislation mandates that fiscal notes prepared by the Department of Legislative Services must now include an analysis of how proposed bills might impact families, including potential effects on marriage and family stability, family formation, and overall family welfare. Committees will be prohibited from voting on a bill unless the fiscal note includes this family impact statement, which must specify the potential impact, its basis, and the methodology used in the analysis. This requirement aims to provide legislators with a more holistic understanding of how proposed laws might affect family dynamics and well-being in Maryland. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, giving state agencies time to prepare for the new reporting requirements.

Education

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0558?ys=2025RS