Bill > HB47

This bill establishes the Commission on State and Local Government Real Property Bearing Confederate Names, an independent unit within the executive branch of Maryland state government, to address properties with names that commemorate or reference the Confederate States of America or individuals/entities who served it. The Commission will consist of 24 members appointed by the Governor, with one representative from each county, and will be responsible for developing a framework to identify state and local government-owned real property, which includes streets, buildings, parks, and subdivisions, that bears such names. The Commission will also make recommendations for renaming these properties, though it will not have the authority to rename them itself. It is required to meet at least quarterly, can elect a chair and vice-chair annually, and its members will not receive compensation but will be reimbursed for expenses. The Commission will hire an archivist, who will be an employee of the State Archives, to assist with its work. It is authorized to seek funding from federal, foundation, and private sources in addition to state financing, and any money received will be subject to state audit. The Commission is mandated to report its findings and recommendations by October 1, 2033. This Act will take effect on July 1, 2027, and will remain in effect for seven years, automatically expiring on June 30, 2034.

Government Affairs

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0047?ys=2026RS