Bill > HB1617

This bill establishes "Health Innovation Zones" in Maryland, which are specific geographic areas that experience significant health disparities and poor health outcomes, such as high rates of maternal and newborn complications, chronic diseases, and are home to communities of color, low-income households, or are economically disadvantaged. Local zoning authorities in any county can designate such a zone if it's a food or healthcare desert with a high concentration of certain diseases like cancer or diabetes and a lack of essential services like grocery stores or primary care providers; if a zone is designated, the county must create incentives by law to encourage grocery stores, pharmacies, and healthcare providers to set up shop there. Specifically for Prince George's County, the County Council is mandated to designate zones in the "Prince George's County Blue Line Corridor" and within two miles of the District of Columbia border, and may designate additional zones meeting the same criteria. Starting in fiscal year 2028, the Governor may, within budget limitations, allocate at least $5 million to the Maryland Economic Development Corporation (MEDCO), a state agency, to fund these incentives, and MEDCO will be responsible for providing this funding and seeking additional sources to support businesses in these zones. Importantly, businesses like grocery stores and pharmacies located within these Health Innovation Zones will be exempt from local zoning and land use regulations.