Bill > SB274

This bill authorizes the Department of Housing and Community Development to create regulations for "affirmatively furthering fair housing," which means actively working to create housing opportunities for all people regardless of their background. It clarifies that housing discrimination can occur even without intent, meaning actions that have a negative impact on protected groups are prohibited, regardless of whether the person intended that outcome. The bill also establishes that certain actions that have a "discriminatory effect"—meaning they disproportionately impact or perpetuate segregation for specific groups based on characteristics like race, religion, sex, disability, or sexual orientation—are unlawful. However, it provides an exception for actions that are necessary to achieve significant, legitimate, and non-discriminatory goals, provided there are no less discriminatory ways to achieve those goals.

Justice

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0274?ys=2026RS