Bill > HB1619

This bill establishes a State Center Advisory Group, comprised of representatives from neighborhood associations, anchor institutions (like universities and hospitals), and specific community organizations, to provide community input on the development of the 28-acre State Center property in Baltimore City, ensure benefits from the development reach surrounding neighborhoods and residents, and promote transparency between the developer, the state, and the community. The Advisory Group must adopt a conflict of interest policy and will be engaged throughout the planning and development process. The bill also alters existing requirements for development contracts and plans, mandating that they include provisions for a comprehensive local hiring plan with goals for construction jobs, long-term employment, and job training, an economic improvement plan to support minority, women-owned, and local businesses, and a community benefit agreement between the developer and the Advisory Group, while also requiring anchor institutions that provide public or community services to be major tenants and emphasizing connections to surrounding communities and green space.

Government Affairs

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB1619?ys=2026RS