Bill > HB1010

This bill modifies the African American Heritage Preservation (AAHP) Program to expand its funding capabilities and grant-making authority. The bill introduces a new type of grant called an "African American Heritage Preservation Noncapital Grant," which can be used for preserving or sharing African American history and culture in the state. The AAHP Grant Fund is now authorized to receive grants and donations, adding to its existing funding sources like state budget appropriations and investment earnings. The bill allows the Secretary of Planning to award grants funded by these donations either as noncapital grants focused on preserving or sharing African American history, or as capital preservation projects if additional funds remain after noncapital grants are awarded. The existing program will continue to focus on identifying and preserving buildings, communities, and sites of historical and cultural importance to the African American experience in Maryland. The bill maintains the $500,000 maximum grant amount per recipient and requires the Trust and Commission to review applications competitively, considering factors like public necessity, funding needs, project costs, and geographic diversity. The changes will take effect on July 1, 2025, providing more flexible funding options for projects that celebrate and preserve African American heritage in the state.

Budget and Finance

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB1010?ys=2025RS