Bill > SB546

This bill modifies Maryland's municipal incorporation process by establishing new requirements for organizing communities seeking to create a new municipality. The bill requires that a proposed incorporation area must have at least 300 residents and can initiate the incorporation process through a petition signed by either 25% of registered voters or 20% of registered voters representing at least 25% of the area's property assessed valuation. The organizing committee must now actively investigate and report on the potential fiscal impacts, expected municipal services, and potential economic consequences of incorporation. A significant new provision allows for a referendum if at least 40% of registered voters in the proposed area request it, which the county commissioners or council must then approve and schedule for the next general election. If less than 40% of voters request a referendum, the county will specify a separate voting date. The bill also requires transparency in the process, mandating that the county post the organizing committee's report on its website and provide written explanations if a referendum request is rejected. These changes aim to provide more structured and transparent guidelines for municipal incorporation in Maryland, with clearer requirements for community-driven incorporation efforts. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2025.

Education

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0546?ys=2025RS