Bill > SB22

This bill requires the Department of Disabilities to establish affordable and accessible housing programs for individuals with disabilities and allows the Department to create one or more affiliated foundations to support these programs and other disability services. These foundations can solicit and accept funds from various sources, partner with individuals and organizations, and promote activities that enhance access to assistive technology, support employment for individuals with disabilities, and create integrated, affordable, and accessible housing opportunities. The bill also mandates that the Department develop policies for these foundations, which will be reviewed by the Attorney General and the State Ethics Commission, and requires the Department to report annually to the Governor, the Legislative Policy Committee, and the Ethics Commission on foundation operations and employee involvement. Furthermore, affiliated foundations will be subject to annual independent audits, and failure to comply will prevent them from soliciting or receiving contributions. The bill clarifies that these foundations are not state agencies and their financial obligations are not state debts, and it allows Department officials or employees to serve on foundation boards without compensation, though they can be reimbursed for expenses.

Budget and Finance

Finance (Senate)

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0022?ys=2026RS