Bill > HB1279

This bill addresses a regulatory process issue for state government agencies in Maryland, establishing a new rule that prevents state government units from collecting fees for a program until they have fully completed and finalized the regulations required to implement that program. Specifically, the legislation mandates that if a state government unit is legally required to develop regulations for a specific state-authorized or state-required program, it cannot charge any fees or collect payments related to that program until the implementing regulations have been completely adopted. This provision aims to ensure transparency and prevent agencies from collecting money for programs without having clear, formally established regulatory guidelines in place. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, which provides state agencies with ample time to prepare for and comply with the new requirement. By linking fee collection directly to regulatory completion, the bill seeks to promote more thorough and timely development of program regulations and protect potential program participants from premature financial obligations.

Health and Social Services

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB1279?ys=2025RS