Bill > HB1073

This bill, known as the Maryland Fair Chance Housing Act, aims to prevent discrimination against prospective tenants based on their criminal history by establishing new rules for landlords. It prohibits landlords from asking about or considering most criminal history information before extending a conditional offer, which is an offer to lease contingent on a background check. However, landlords can inquire about specific serious convictions, such as those related to violent crimes, sexual offenses, or human trafficking, and certain sex offender registry requirements, even before a conditional offer. After a conditional offer is made, landlords can only deny tenancy based on a limited list of convictions, and they must conduct an individualized assessment considering factors like the nature of the offense, the time elapsed, and evidence of rehabilitation. If a landlord withdraws a conditional offer due to criminal history, they must provide a specific reason in writing and inform the tenant of their right to request a reassessment by providing mitigating information. The bill also prevents landlords from publishing advertisements that exclude individuals with criminal records and requires them to handle criminal history information responsibly. Violations are considered unfair trade practices and can result in civil penalties.

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https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB1073?ys=2026RS