Bill > HB801

This bill establishes the Maryland Financial Empowerment Center Network Pilot Program within the Office of the Comptroller, which aims to create a statewide network of financial empowerment centers in different regions of Maryland. The centers will provide free, one-on-one financial counseling and coaching services, helping individuals with strategies to increase savings, pay down debt, access banking, and improve credit scores. These services will be available in English, Spanish, and potentially other languages as required. Financial counselors employed by the centers must complete training that meets or exceeds the standards developed by the Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund. The Governor is required to include appropriations in the annual budget for fiscal years 2027 and 2028 to cover the program's costs. The Comptroller will be responsible for implementing, administering, and adopting regulations for the pilot program. The bill will take effect on October 1, 2025, and remain in effect for three years, automatically expiring on September 30, 2028, unless further action is taken by the General Assembly.

Budget and Finance

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0801?ys=2025RS