Bill > HB62

This bill, applicable only in Anne Arundel County, alters the process for landlords seeking to repossess property due to unpaid rent by changing how tenants are notified of court proceedings. Specifically, it allows the District Court to issue summonses to a "sheriff's designee," who will notify the tenant, assignee, or subtenant by first-class mail to appear in court on the thirtieth day after the landlord files a complaint, instead of the current fifth day. This designee will have the same authority as a constable or sheriff in serving process and must post a notice of the trial at the property or another known address at least 7 days before the trial date. The bill also introduces a limit, stating the District Court cannot direct a sheriff's designee to serve process for a given day if the number of cases scheduled for that day exceeds 100, and any service fee paid to a sheriff's designee must be paid directly to the sheriff's office. These changes are intended to streamline the repossession process while ensuring tenants receive adequate notice, and the bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2026.

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https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0062?ys=2026RS