Md. Code, State Gov't | Maryland Code, State Government

Title 1

Subtitle 1

§ 1-101

(a) In this article the following words have the meanings indicated.

(b) “County” means a county of the State and, unless expressly provided otherwise, Baltimore City.

(d) “Person” means an individual, receiver, trustee, guardian, personal representative, fiduciary, or representative of any kind and any partnership, firm, association, corporation, or other entity.

(e) “State” means:

(1) a state, possession, or territory of the United States;

(2) the District of Columbia; or

(3) the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico.

Title 2

Subtitle 1

§ 2-101

(a) In this title the following words have the meanings indicated.

(b) “House” means the House of Delegates of Maryland.

(d) “Senate” means the Senate of Maryland.

(e) “Speaker” means the Speaker of the House.

(f) “Standing committee” means:

(1) a standing committee of the Senate, as set forth in the Senate rules; or

(2) a standing committee of the House, as set forth in the House rules.

§ 2-102

(a) The State shall provide the members of the General Assembly with reasonable office space and services, equipment, and secretarial services, as provided in the State budget.

(b) (1) A municipal corporation, county, or other political subdivision or its governing body may not subsidize a member of the General Assembly in the maintenance of the space, services, or equipment.

(2) This subsection does not prohibit the establishment of an office by a political subdivision to maintain liaison between the subdivision and the General Assembly.

§ 2-103

(a) In this section, “permanent part–time legislative employee” means an individual who, for at least 130 days a year, is employed by the General Assembly.

(b) A permanent part–time legislative employee shall receive employment rights, privileges, and benefits that:

(1) equal at least 50% of the employment rights, privileges, and benefits of a permanent full–time employee of the Department of Legislative Services; and

(2) for an individual who is employed for at least 50% of a full workweek, are prorated in proportion to the number of hours worked.

(d) The President and the Speaker shall administer this section.

§ 2-104

(a) (1) All full–time permanent employees of the General Assembly of Maryland and the Department of Legislative Services shall be considered as full–time permanent State employees for the purposes of transferring to a position in the Executive or Judicial Branch of State government.

(2) These employees shall receive credit for service with the General Assembly for the purposes of transferring accumulated sick and vacation leave, service credit in the Employees’ Retirement System, and all other benefits.

(3) These employees shall be granted the same salary consideration that would be provided to an employee transferring within the Executive or Judicial Branch.

(b) On the transfer of a General Assembly employee or an employee of the Department of Legislative Services to a position in the Executive Branch, the Secretary of Budget and Management may request that the President of the Senate or the Speaker of the House of Delegates or their representative certify as to the full–time permanent status of that employee. The certification shall be satisfactory evidence for the purposes of subsection (a) of this section.

(c) If any employee of the General Assembly transferred to a position in the Executive or Judicial Branch on or after July 1, 1977, and suffered any loss of compensation or benefits solely as a result of the employee’s prior service with the General Assembly not being recognized as full–time permanent service, the employee’s compensation and benefits shall be reinstated at the appropriate level and the employee shall be reimbursed for any loss in salary from the effective date of the transfer.

(d) Any full–time permanent employee of the General Assembly of Maryland or the Department of Legislative Services who separates from State service and returns to State service in the Executive or Judicial Branch within 3 years from the time of separation from active duty, as defined in § 9–901 of this article, shall be eligible for reinstatement and shall receive full credit for any prior State service.

§ 2-105

While the General Assembly is in session, each member or employee of the General Assembly who also is employed by the State or any of its political subdivisions:

(1) is entitled automatically to a leave of absence from the other employment; and

(2) except for a right to a salary or wages, may not be deprived of or otherwise have impaired any incident of the employment, including tenure, seniority, annual or sick leave, promotional rights, or rights to salary increments.

§ 2-106

(a) In this section, “Force” means the Legislative Security Force.

(b) There is a Legislative Security Force.

(c) The Force consists of the members of the Department of State Police who are assigned for duty with the General Assembly.

(d) Under the guidance of the presiding officers of the General Assembly, the Force shall maintain order during the conduct of the legislative process.

§ 2-107

(a) In this section, “relative” means:

(1) a spouse;

(2) a parent or stepparent;

(3) a sibling or step sibling;

(4) a child, stepchild, foster child, or ward;

(5) a mother–in–law or father–in–law;

(6) a son–in–law or daughter–in–law;

(7) a grandparent; or

(8) a grandchild.

(b) (1) Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, a member of the General Assembly may not employ for legislative business the member’s own relative, or the relative of another member from the same legislative district, using public funds over which the member has direct control.

(2) Paragraph (1) of this subsection does not apply to a member of the General Assembly who:

(i) has a physical impairment that necessitates the employment of a particular relative; and

(ii) discloses the employment to the Joint Committee on Legislative Ethics.

§ 2-108

(a) Public resources may be used by members of the General Assembly only for public purposes.

(b) This section does not prohibit incidental use of public resources for nonpublic purposes.

Subtitle 2

§ 2-201

(a) The State of Maryland is divided into 47 districts for the election of members of the General Assembly of Maryland.

(b) Each legislative district shall elect 1 Senator and 3 Delegates.

(c) Each legislative district may be subdivided into 3 single member delegate districts or into 1 single member delegate district and 1 multimember delegate district.

(d) In any legislative district which contains more than 2 counties:

(1) where Delegates are to be elected at large by the voters of the entire district, a county, or part of a county, may not have more than 1 Delegate residing in that district; and

(2) where Delegates are to be elected by the voters of a multimember subdistrict which contains more than 2 counties or parts of more than 2 counties, a county or a part of a county may not have more than 1 Delegate residing in that subdistrict.

(e) (1) The descriptions of legislative districts in this subtitle, including all references to:

(i) election districts and wards are to the geographical boundaries of the election districts and wards as they existed as of April 1, 2020; and

(ii) precincts are to the geographical boundaries of the precincts as reviewed and certified by the local board of supervisors of elections or their designees, before they were reported to the U.S. Bureau of the Census as part of the 2020 Census Redistricting Data Program and as those precinct lines are specifically indicated in the P.L. 94–171 data or shown on the P.L. 94–171 census block maps provided by the U.S. Bureau of the Census and as reviewed and corrected by the Maryland Department of Planning.

(2) Where precincts are split between legislative districts, census tract and block numbers, as indicated in the P.L. 94–171 data or shown on the P.L. 94–171 census block maps provided by the U.S. Bureau of the Census and referred to in § 2–202 of this subtitle, are used to define the boundaries of legislative districts.

(f) For purposes of elections, the provisions of this subtitle shall be applicable to elections for members of the General Assembly beginning with the primary and general elections of 2022 and, for purposes of representation, shall be applicable beginning with the second Wednesday of January 2023.

§ 2-202

The composition of the 47 legislative districts is:

(1) legislative district 1 consists of:

(a) delegate district 1A (single member delegate district):

(i) Garrett County;

(ii) Allegany County election districts 8, 9, 10, 26, and 31; and

(iii) Allegany County election district 7, precinct 2;

(b) delegate district 1B (single member delegate district):

(i) Allegany County election districts 4, 5, 6, 11, 12, 13, 14, 18, 20, 22, 23, 24, 29, and 34;

(ii) Allegany County election district 7, precinct 1; and

(iii) that part of Allegany County election district 16, precinct 0 that consists of census tract 6.00, blocks 1076, 1085, and 1087; and

(i) Allegany County election districts 1, 2, 3, and 21;

(ii) that part of Allegany County election district 16, precinct 0 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 2.00, blocks 1000 through 1036 and 3000 through 3036; and

2. census tract 6.00, blocks 1086 and 1089 through 1091;

(iii) Washington County election districts 4, 5, 15, and 23;

(iv) Washington County election district 26, precincts 2, 3, and 4;

(v) that part of Washington County election district 2, precinct 1 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 104.02, blocks 3023 through 3029;

2. census tract 108.02, blocks 1003 through 1010, 1012 through 1022, 2000 through 2044, and 3000 through 3005;

3. census tract 108.03, blocks 2006, 2012 through 2016, 3001 through 3016, and 3020 through 3046;

4. census tract 109.01, blocks 1003 and 1007;

5. census tract 109.02, blocks 2001 through 2003; and

6. census tract 117.00, blocks 3021, 3030, 3031, 3033, 4002, 4003, 4011, 4013 through 4024, 4028, 4030, and 4031;

(vi) that part of Washington County election district 10, precinct 2 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 10.01, blocks 3009 through 3014; and

2. census tract 109.01, blocks 1000 through 1002;

(vii) that part of Washington County election district 13, precinct 1 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 3.01, blocks 1000, 1001, 1014, and 1015;

2. census tract 103.00, blocks 1007, 1010 through 1012, and 1054;

3. census tract 104.01, blocks 1029, 2009 through 2019, 2021 through 2024, 2027 through 2029, and 2032;

4. census tract 104.02, blocks 1000 through 1012, 1020, 1026 through 1031, 2000 through 2007, 2018, 2019, 2021 through 2024, 2031, 2053, and 2054; and

5. census tract 117.00, blocks 3000 through 3008 and 3032;

(viii) that part of Washington County election district 13, precinct 2 that consists of census tract 104.01, blocks 1000 through 1028, 1030 through 1035, 2000 through 2008, and 2020;

(ix) that part of Washington County election district 24, precinct 1 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 3.01, blocks 2003, 2005, 2008 through 2011, 2036 through 2038, 2044, and 2045;

2. census tract 9.00, blocks 2004 through 2009, 2014, and 2015; and

3. census tract 104.02, blocks 2012, 2015, 2025, 2026, 2028, 2030, 2032 through 2035, 2038 through 2043, 2051, 2052, 2055, 2056, 3000, 3001, 3003 through 3006, 3008, 3009, and 3011 through 3013;

(x) that part of Washington County election district 26, precinct 1 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 9.00, blocks 3021 through 3024, 3026 through 3032, and 3034;

2. census tract 10.01, blocks 1018, 2009 through 2013, 2015 through 2019, 2021 through 2023, 2025 through 2034, and 2039 through 2042;

3. census tract 10.02, blocks 1000 through 1010, 3000, and 3001; and

4. census tract 104.02, blocks 3014 through 3022 and 3032; and

(xi) that part of Washington County election district 27, precinct 2 that consists of census tract 103.00, blocks 1003 through 1006, 1008, 1009, 1022, 1024, and 1025;

(2) legislative district 2 consists of:

(a) delegate district 2A (two member delegate district):

(i) that part of Frederick County election district 4, precinct 1 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 7530.01, block 5020; and

2. census tract 7675.00, block 3014;

(ii) that part of Frederick County election district 5, precinct 1 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 7529.00, blocks 1000 through 1003, 1053, and 2000;

2. census tract 7668.00, blocks 1000 through 1026, 2000 through 2054, 3000 through 3005, 3008 through 3022, and 4000 through 4025; and

3. census tract 7675.00, blocks 1000 through 1002, 1004, 1005, 1008 through 1017, 1048, 2000 through 2041, and 2050;

(iii) that part of Frederick County election district 10, precinct 1 that consists of census tract 7529.00, blocks 1004 through 1050, 1054, 2018 through 2036, and 2042;

(iv) that part of Frederick County election district 15, precinct 1 that consists of census tract 7530.01, blocks 1001, 1003, 2000 through 2018, 3003 through 3005, 3007, 5004 through 5007, 5010 through 5014, 5016, 5017, 6000 through 6003, 6005 through 6011, 6013 through 6015, and 6021;

(v) that part of Frederick County election district 15, precinct 2 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 7529.00, blocks 1051, 1052, 2001 through 2017, 2061 through 2066, 2069 through 2078, and 2082;

2. census tract 7530.01, blocks 3000 through 3002, 3006, 4000 through 4005, and 5000 through 5003;

3. census tract 7530.02, blocks 1000 through 1004, 2000 through 2025, 3000 through 3019, and 4000 through 4012;

4. census tract 7668.00, blocks 3006 and 3007; and

5. census tract 7675.00, blocks 1022 through 1024, 1030 through 1034, 1038, 1043 through 1045, 3012, and 3013;

(vi) Washington County election districts 1, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 14, 16, 19, and 20;

(vii) Washington County election district 10, precincts 3 and 4;

(viii) Washington County election district 18, precincts 1, 3, and 4;

(ix) Washington County election district 27, precinct 1;

(x) that part of Washington County election district 2, precinct 1 that consists of census tract 109.01, blocks 1004 and 3027;

(xi) that part of Washington County election district 10, precinct 1 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 6.02, blocks 1034 through 1036, 1039, 1045, and 1046;

2. census tract 110.00, blocks 1000 and 1005; and

3. census tract 111.00, blocks 2001, 2002, 2017, 2021 through 2023, 2025, 2026, 2028 through 2031, 2033, 2034, 3008, 3010 through 3036, 4000 through 4006, 5001 through 5003, 5005 through 5012, 5014, 5015, 5017, 5020 through 5024, and 5027 through 5034;

(xii) that part of Washington County election district 10, precinct 2 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 6.02, blocks 1040, 1047, and 1048;

2. census tract 10.01, blocks 1024 through 1027;

3. census tract 109.01, blocks 2000 through 2013, 3000 through 3026, 3031, and 3033 through 3035; and

4. census tract 110.00, blocks 1001 and 1002;

(xiii) that part of Washington County election district 13, precinct 1 that consists of census tract 103.00, blocks 1031, 1043, 1064, and 1065;

(xiv) that part of Washington County election district 13, precinct 2 that consists of census tract 103.00, blocks 1013 and 1014;

(xv) that part of Washington County election district 17, precinct 1 that consists of census tract 112.04, block 2022;

(xvi) that part of Washington County election district 18, precinct 2 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 1.00, blocks 1000, 1002 through 1006, and 1046;

2. census tract 5.00, blocks 3000, 3001, 3009, 3011, 3016, 3033, and 3036 through 3042;

3. census tract 6.01, blocks 1000, 1003, 1004, 1015, 1021, and 1022;

4. census tract 102.00, block 2013;

5. census tract 112.02, blocks 3000 through 3003 and 4002 through 4011; and

6. census tract 112.04, blocks 1000 and 3004 through 3022;

(xvii) that part of Washington County election district 22, precinct 2 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 1.00, block 1043; and

2. census tract 6.01, block 1005; and

(xviii) that part of Washington County election district 27, precinct 2 that consists of census tract 103.00, blocks 1000 through 1002, 1015 through 1021, 1023, 1026 through 1029, 1032, 1033, 1037 through 1042, 1050 through 1053, 1061, 1062, 1066, 1067, 3000 through 3016, 4000 through 4016, 4018, and 4019; and

(b) delegate district 2B (single member delegate district):

(i) Washington County election districts 3, 21, and 25;

(ii) Washington County election district 10, precinct 5;

(iii) Washington County election district 22, precinct 1;

(iv) that part of Washington County election district 10, precinct 1 that consists of census tract 111.00, block 5016;

(v) that part of Washington County election district 17, precinct 1 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 6.01, blocks 1010 through 1013, 1023, 1026 through 1029, 2015, and 2016;

2. census tract 6.02, blocks 1000 through 1002, 1004 through 1013, 1016 through 1020, 1025, 1026, 1044, 2000 through 2021, and 2023 through 2034;

3. census tract 7.00, blocks 1000 through 1014, 2000 through 2010, and 3000 through 3015;

4. census tract 111.00, blocks 1004, 1006, 1014, 1017, 1020, 1021, 1023, 1026, 2003 through 2008, 2012 through 2016, 2019, 2020, 2024, 2027, 2032, 3001, 3003 through 3007, 3009, 5000, 5004, 5013, 5018, 5019, 5025, and 5026; and

5. census tract 112.04, blocks 2017 through 2021, 2023, and 2028;

(vi) that part of Washington County election district 18, precinct 2 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 5.00, blocks 3005, 3006, 3008, 3014, and 3020; and

2. census tract 6.01, block 1008;

(vii) that part of Washington County election district 22, precinct 2 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 1.00, blocks 1001, 1044, and 1045;

2. census tract 5.00, blocks 3002 through 3004, 3007, 3010, 3012, 3013, 3015, 3017 through 3019, 3021 through 3032, 3034, 3035, 3043, 3046, 3048, and 3049; and

3. census tract 6.01, blocks 1001, 1002, 1006, 1007, 1009, 1014, 1016 through 1020, 1024, 1025, 2000 through 2002, and 2017 through 2019;

(viii) that part of Washington County election district 24, precinct 1 that consists of census tract 9.00, block 3015; and

(ix) that part of Washington County election district 26, precinct 1 that consists of census tract 9.00, blocks 2013, 2028, and 3025;

(3) legislative district 3 consists of:

(a) Frederick County election district 2;

(b) Frederick County election district 1, precinct 2;

(d) Frederick County election district 9, precincts 3, 8, and 9;

(e) Frederick County election district 13, precinct 3;

(f) Frederick County election district 20, precinct 2;

(g) Frederick County election district 21, precincts 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 8;

(h) Frederick County election district 23, precincts 2, 3, and 4;

(i) Frederick County election district 24, precincts 2, 4, 5, and 6;

(j) that part of Frederick County election district 1, precinct 1 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7523.01, block 4021; and

(ii) census tract 7523.02, block 1010;

(k) that part of Frederick County election district 9, precinct 6 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7519.02, blocks 1000 through 1015 and 2000 through 2013; and

(ii) census tract 7519.05, blocks 1009, 1012 through 1014, and 1017 through 1028;

(l) that part of Frederick County election district 9, precinct 7 that consists of census tract 7519.05, blocks 1015 and 1016;

(m) that part of Frederick County election district 13, precinct 2 that consists of census tract 7517.01, blocks 1019 through 1021;

(n) that part of Frederick County election district 20, precinct 1 that consists of census tract 7513.01, block 3024;

(o) that part of Frederick County election district 21, precinct 1 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7512.02, block 4002; and

(ii) census tract 7513.01, blocks 2046, 2048, 3019, 3047, and 3048;

(p) that part of Frederick County election district 21, precinct 7 that consists of census tract 7512.03, blocks 3008 through 3010;

(q) that part of Frederick County election district 23, precinct 1 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7505.05, blocks 2011 and 2012;

(ii) census tract 7505.06, blocks 1022 through 1025;

(iii) census tract 7510.03, block 2009;

(iv) census tract 7510.04, blocks 1000, 1001, 1008 through 1016, 1025 through 1045, 2000 through 2018, and 3000 through 3005;

(v) census tract 7523.03, blocks 1001 through 1006; and

(vi) census tract 7651.00, blocks 1018 and 1019; and

(r) that part of Frederick County election district 26, precinct 1 that consists of census tract 7402.00, blocks 1009 through 1012;

(4) legislative district 4 consists of:

(a) Frederick County election districts 3, 6, 8, 11, 12, 14, 16, 17, 19, 22, and 25;

(b) Frederick County election district 1, precinct 3;

(d) Frederick County election district 9, precincts 1, 2, 4, and 5;

(e) Frederick County election district 13, precinct 1;

(f) Frederick County election district 18, precincts 2 and 3;

(g) Frederick County election district 24, precincts 1 and 3;

(h) Frederick County election district 26, precinct 2;

(i) that part of Frederick County election district 1, precinct 1 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7523.02, blocks 1008, 1009, 1011 through 1018, 1022 through 1025, 1028, 1030 through 1034, 1036 through 1041, 2000 through 2028, 2030 through 2032, 3000 through 3005, and 3026 through 3028;

(ii) census tract 7523.03, blocks 2016, 2020 through 2036, and 3000; and

(iii) census tract 7525.02, blocks 2020 and 2022;

(j) that part of Frederick County election district 4, precinct 1 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7513.02, blocks 2000 through 2002, 2007, 2008, 2020, 2021, and 2027 through 2030;

(ii) census tract 7530.01, blocks 5018 and 5019; and

(iii) census tract 7675.00, blocks 1025 through 1027, 1035, 1036, 1046, 1047, 2044 through 2049, 3000 through 3011, and 3015 through 3046;

(k) that part of Frederick County election district 5, precinct 1 that consists of census tract 7675.00, blocks 1003, 1006, 1007, 1018 through 1021, 1028, 1040, 1041, 1049, 2042, and 2043;

(l) that part of Frederick County election district 9, precinct 6 that consists of census tract 7519.05, blocks 1003, 1008, and 1034;

(m) that part of Frederick County election district 9, precinct 7 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7518.01, blocks 1001 through 1014, 3000, 3001, 3010, and 3011;

(ii) census tract 7519.05, blocks 1000 through 1002, 1004 through 1007, 2000, and 3000 through 3011; and

(iii) census tract 7519.06, blocks 1000 through 1002, 1004 through 1006, and 2000 through 2017;

(n) that part of Frederick County election district 10, precinct 1 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7528.01, blocks 1000 through 1008, 1019, 1022 through 1031, and 1040; and

(ii) census tract 7529.00, blocks 2037 through 2041, 2043 through 2056, and 2079;

(o) that part of Frederick County election district 13, precinct 2 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7517.01, blocks 1005, 1006, and 1018; and

(ii) census tract 7756.00, block 2012;

(p) that part of Frederick County election district 15, precinct 1 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7513.02, blocks 1000 through 1004, 2003 through 2006, and 2009 through 2012;

(ii) census tract 7529.00, blocks 2057 through 2060, 2067, 2068, and 2080; and

(iii) census tract 7530.01, blocks 1000, 1002, 1004 through 1018, 5008, 5015, 6004, 6012, and 6016 through 6020;

(q) that part of Frederick County election district 15, precinct 2 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7530.01, block 5009; and

(ii) census tract 7675.00, blocks 1029, 1037, 1039, and 1042;

(r) that part of Frederick County election district 18, precinct 1 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7518.02, block 1010; and

(ii) census tract 7520.01, blocks 1000, 1001, 1012, 1023, 1025, 3008 through 3014, 3025, and 3026;

(s) that part of Frederick County election district 20, precinct 1 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7513.01, blocks 1000, 1001, 1011, 1013, 3000, 3001, 3004, 3005, 3015, and 3021 through 3023;

(ii) census tract 7513.02, blocks 1005 through 1012, 1015 through 1044, 1047 through 1051, 2013 through 2019, 2022 through 2026, and 2031 through 2067; and

(iii) census tract 7675.00, block 3047;

(t) that part of Frederick County election district 21, precinct 1 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7512.03, blocks 3001 and 3002;

(ii) census tract 7513.01, blocks 1002 through 1010, 1012, 1014, 2000 through 2004, 2006, 2021 through 2025, 2045, 2047, 2049, 2050, 3018, 3020, 3025 through 3030, and 3049;

(iii) census tract 7513.02, blocks 1045, 1046, and 1052; and

(iv) census tract 7707.00, block 1034;

(u) that part of Frederick County election district 21, precinct 7 that consists of census tract 7512.03, blocks 3000, 3003, 3004, 3006, 3007, 3014, and 3015;

(v) that part of Frederick County election district 23, precinct 1 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7510.04, blocks 1006, 1007, 1017 through 1024, 3006, and 3007;

(ii) census tract 7523.03, blocks 1000 and 2000 through 2015;

(iii) census tract 7525.01, blocks 4000 through 4002 and 4013 through 4016;

(iv) census tract 7525.02, blocks 2000, 2001, 2009, and 2010; and

(v) census tract 7526.02, blocks 1008, 1009, 3025, 3026, and 3028; and

(w) that part of Frederick County election district 26, precinct 1 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7402.00, blocks 1000 through 1008, 1013 through 1017, 2000 through 2011, 3000 through 3026, and 4000 through 4020;

(ii) census tract 7676.00, blocks 2036 through 2039 and 2042 through 2044; and

(iii) census tract 7735.00, block 3005;

(5) legislative district 5 consists of:

(a) Carroll County election districts 1, 2, 5, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, and 14;

(b) Carroll County election district 4, precinct 2;

(d) that part of Carroll County election district 3, precinct 1 that consists of census tract 5030.00, blocks 1000 through 1025, 2000 through 2013, 2015, 2017, 3000 through 3014, 4000 through 4013, 4015 through 4018, and 4020;

(e) that part of Carroll County election district 6, precinct 1 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 5061.01, blocks 1000 through 1015, 2000 through 2013, 3000 through 3006, 3008 through 3027, and 3030 through 3032; and

(ii) census tract 5062.00, blocks 1000 through 1019, 1023 through 1025, 1027 through 1036, 2003 through 2007, and 2009;

(f) that part of Carroll County election district 6, precinct 2 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 5061.02, blocks 2000 through 2015, 2017 through 2019, 2023, 2028, and 2029; and

(ii) census tract 5062.00, blocks 3004 through 3009 and 3020 through 3025;

(g) that part of Carroll County election district 7, precinct 2 that consists of census tract 5076.01, blocks 2023, 2024, 2026, 2028 through 2031, 3003 through 3037, and 3041 through 3054;

(h) that part of Carroll County election district 7, precinct 4 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 5075.00, blocks 1004, 1008, 1009, 2000 through 2003, 2007, 2014 through 2036, and 3000 through 3021;

(ii) census tract 5076.01, blocks 1008, 1009, 1013, 1014, 2011, 2018, 2019, and 3000 through 3002;

(iii) census tract 5077.02, blocks 1001, 1024, 2000 through 2037, 3000 through 3019, 3023, and 3024; and

(iv) census tract 5078.01, blocks 3000, 3003, 3004, 3015 through 3019, and 3026 through 3029; and

(i) that part of Frederick County election district 18, precinct 1 that consists of census tract 7520.01, blocks 1006 through 1011, 1013 through 1016, 2000 through 2007, 3000 through 3007, and 3016 through 3024;

(6) legislative district 6 consists of:

(a) Baltimore County election district 12;

(b) Baltimore County election district 15, precincts 1, 2, 3, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, and 24; and

(c) that part of Baltimore County election district 15, precinct 5 that consists of census tract 4512.00, blocks 2011 through 2015, 2023, 2024, 2026, and 2034;

(7) legislative district 7 consists of:

(a) delegate district 7A (two member delegate district):

(i) Baltimore County election district 9, precincts 24 and 25;

(ii) Baltimore County election district 11, precincts 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 14, 15, 17, 18, 20, 22, 24, 25, 26, and 27;

(iii) Baltimore County election district 15, precincts 6, 7, 8, 9, 25, and 26;

(iv) that part of Baltimore County election district 9, precinct 9 that consists of census tract 4901.00, blocks 1002, 1003, 1006 through 1008, and 1012;

(v) that part of Baltimore County election district 9, precinct 26 that consists of census tract 4917.01, blocks 2002, 3000, and 3001;

(vi) that part of Baltimore County election district 11, precinct 7 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 4114.04, block 1008;

2. census tract 4114.09, blocks 2002 through 2005 and 2009; and

3. census tract 4114.10, blocks 2000 through 2002 and 2005;

(vii) that part of Baltimore County election district 11, precinct 10 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 4114.04, blocks 1009 and 1010; and

2. census tract 4114.10, blocks 3000, 3001, 3003 through 3005, and 3007 through 3009;

(viii) that part of Baltimore County election district 11, precinct 12 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 4113.03, blocks 1000 through 1011, 2000 through 2009, 2016, 2017, 3012, 3013, 4001, 4002, 4004 through 4006, 4008, 4009, and 4011; and

2. census tract 4113.08, block 2002;

(ix) that part of Baltimore County election district 11, precinct 13 that consists of census tract 4113.07, block 2002;

(x) that part of Baltimore County election district 11, precinct 19 that consists of census tract 4113.07, block 1000;

(xi) that part of Baltimore County election district 11, precinct 23 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 4112.02, blocks 1015 through 1017, 3012 through 3017, and 3019; and

2. census tract 4901.00, blocks 1000 and 1001; and

(xii) that part of Baltimore County election district 15, precinct 5 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 4514.02, blocks 1000 through 1003; and

2. census tract 4517.01, blocks 1011 through 1017, 1021, 1040 through 1044, 2000 through 2003, and 2028; and

(b) delegate district 7B (single member delegate district):

(i) Harford County election district 1, precincts 2, 7, and 45;

(ii) Harford County election district 3, precincts 6, 7, and 14;

(iii) Harford County election district 4, precinct 2;

(iv) that part of Harford County election district 1, precinct 4 that consists of census tract 3014.01, blocks 1000 through 1008, 2007 through 2010, and 2012 through 2015;

(v) that part of Harford County election district 1, precinct 8 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 3012.01, block 2000; and

2. census tract 3012.02, blocks 1000 through 1008, 2002 through 2006, 4006 through 4015, 4019, and 4020;

(vi) that part of Harford County election district 1, precinct 15 that consists of census tract 3012.04, blocks 2002, 2004 through 2014, and 3004;

(vii) that part of Harford County election district 3, precinct 3 that consists of census tract 3033.00, blocks 2002, 2003, 2010, 2012, 2015, and 2016;

(viii) that part of Harford County election district 3, precinct 13 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 3035.02, blocks 1002 through 1008; and

2. census tract 3038.01, block 2030;

(ix) that part of Harford County election district 4, precinct 1 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 3042.01, blocks 1000 through 1015, 2000, and 3000 through 3003; and

2. census tract 3042.02, blocks 5002 through 5005, 5008 through 5010, and 5012;

(x) that part of Harford County election district 4, precinct 3 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 3041.01, blocks 1005, 1006, 1018, and 1026; and

2. census tract 3041.02, blocks 1002 through 1015, 1021 through 1024, 1026 through 1031, 1034 through 1040, 2000 through 2019, 3002, 3006 through 3028, 3032, and 3033;

(xi) that part of Harford County election district 4, precinct 5 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 3042.01, blocks 3004 through 3009, 4001, and 4002; and

2. census tract 3042.02, blocks 3000 through 3009 and 4007; and

(xii) that part of Harford County election district 4, precinct 6 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 3041.01, blocks 1000 through 1004, 1007 through 1017, and 1019 through 1025;

2. census tract 3041.02, blocks 1025 and 1032; and

3. census tract 3042.02, blocks 5000, 5001, 5006, and 5007;

(8) legislative district 8 consists of:

(a) Baltimore County election district 14;

(b) Baltimore County election district 9, precincts 16, 17, 18, 19, 21, 22, 23, and 28;

(d) Baltimore County election district 15, precinct 4;

(e) that part of Baltimore County election district 9, precinct 10 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 4903.02, blocks 1000 through 1007; and

(ii) census tract 4912.01, blocks 1000 through 1008;

(f) that part of Baltimore County election district 9, precinct 11 that consists of census tract 4912.01, block 2008;

(g) that part of Baltimore County election district 9, precinct 15 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 4912.02, blocks 1006 through 1010, 1020, 1026 through 1028, and 2000 through 2013; and

(ii) census tract 4913.00, blocks 2006 through 2008;

(h) that part of Baltimore County election district 9, precinct 20 that consists of census tract 4914.01, blocks 1000 through 1003, 2000 through 2009, 2012 through 2014, 3002, and 3003;

(i) that part of Baltimore County election district 9, precinct 26 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 4916.00, blocks 1000 through 1004, 1006, and 1007;

(ii) census tract 4917.01, blocks 2003 through 2008, 3002, and 3005; and

(iii) census tract 4919.00, blocks 2003 through 2005;

(j) that part of Baltimore County election district 11, precinct 7 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 4114.06, blocks 3000 through 3008; and

(ii) census tract 4114.10, blocks 1000 through 1002, 2003, and 2004;

(k) that part of Baltimore County election district 11, precinct 10 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 4113.03, blocks 3000 through 3011, 3015 through 3018, 4003, 4007, and 4010;

(ii) census tract 4114.08, blocks 2000, 2001, 2003, and 2007; and

(iii) census tract 4114.10, blocks 3002 and 3006;

(l) that part of Baltimore County election district 11, precinct 12 that consists of census tract 4113.03, blocks 2010 through 2015 and 3014;

(m) that part of Baltimore County election district 11, precinct 13 that consists of census tract 4113.07, blocks 1007 through 1010, 2000, 2001, and 2003 through 2007;

(n) that part of Baltimore County election district 11, precinct 19 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 4113.06, blocks 2000 through 2004; and

(ii) census tract 4113.07, blocks 1001 through 1006; and

(o) that part of Baltimore County election district 15, precinct 5 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 4512.00, blocks 2000 through 2002 and 2016 through 2019;

(ii) census tract 4513.00, blocks 2002 and 2003;

(iii) census tract 4514.01, blocks 2005 through 2012, 2014, and 2016 through 2018;

(iv) census tract 4514.02, blocks 1004, 1006 through 1014, 2000 through 2005, 3000 through 3002, and 4000 through 4008; and

(v) census tract 4517.01, blocks 2004 through 2027;

(9) legislative district 9 consists of:

(a) delegate district 9A (two member delegate district):

(i) Howard County election district 4;

(ii) Howard County election district 2, precincts 6, 7, 8, 11, 18, 19, and 24;

(iii) Howard County election district 3, precincts 1, 2, 3, 5, and 6;

(iv) Howard County election district 5, precincts 1, 10, and 24;

(v) that part of Howard County election district 2, precinct 26 that consists of census tract 6023.03, blocks 1000 through 1016;

(vi) that part of Howard County election district 5, precinct 6 that consists of census tract 6051.06, blocks 1003 through 1010 and 1014 through 1016;

(vii) that part of Howard County election district 5, precinct 19 that consists of census tract 6051.04, blocks 2002 through 2005, 2007, and 2009;

(viii) that part of Howard County election district 5, precinct 22 that consists of census tract 6055.04, blocks 1000 through 1004;

(ix) Montgomery County election district 2, precincts 7, 9, and 10;

(x) Montgomery County election district 12, precincts 2 and 5;

(xi) that part of Montgomery County election district 2, precinct 8 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 7003.17, blocks 2001 through 2007, 2011 through 2014, and 2019 through 2028; and

2. census tract 7003.18, blocks 1000 through 1006 and 1011 through 1013; and

(xii) that part of Montgomery County election district 12, precinct 1 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 7002.04, blocks 1002, 1014, and 1016 through 1018; and

2. census tract 7002.08, blocks 1000, 1003 through 1005, 2002, and 2003; and

(b) delegate district 9B (single member delegate district):

(i) Howard County election district 2, precincts 1, 2, 5, 9, 10, 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 21, 22, 23, and 25;

(ii) Howard County election district 3, precinct 4;

(iii) that part of Howard County election district 2, precinct 3 that consists of census tract 6023.02, blocks 3004, 4001 through 4004, 4006, 4008, and 4009;

(iv) that part of Howard County election district 2, precinct 4 that consists of census tract 6023.02, blocks 2008 through 2016, 2021, 3005, and 4007;

(v) that part of Howard County election district 2, precinct 14 that consists of census tract 6023.05, blocks 1003 through 1005;

(vi) that part of Howard County election district 2, precinct 20 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 6023.02, block 2004; and

2. census tract 6023.06, blocks 2012, 2014, and 3000; and

(vii) that part of Howard County election district 2, precinct 26 that consists of census tract 6023.03, blocks 2000, 2001, and 3000;

(10) legislative district 10 consists of:

(a) Baltimore County election district 1, precincts 2 and 17;

(b) Baltimore County election district 2, precincts 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 24, 27, and 30;

(d) that part of Baltimore County election district 1, precinct 3 that consists of census tract 4015.04, blocks 1008, 1009, 2003, 2011, 2012, and 3002 through 3007;

(e) that part of Baltimore County election district 1, precinct 4 that consists of census tract 4015.04, blocks 1000, 1001, 1004, 1005, and 1010;

(f) that part of Baltimore County election district 1, precinct 10 that consists of census tract 4014.00, blocks 1008, 1015, and 1016;

(g) that part of Baltimore County election district 1, precinct 11 that consists of census tract 4015.03, blocks 1000 through 1013 and 3000;

(h) that part of Baltimore County election district 1, precinct 12 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 4005.00, blocks 1014 through 1018;

(ii) census tract 4014.00, blocks 1005 through 1007 and 1017 through 1022; and

(iii) census tract 4015.03, blocks 2009 through 2014, 3001 through 3004, and 4000 through 4005;

(i) that part of Baltimore County election district 1, precinct 13 that consists of census tract 4005.00, blocks 1003 through 1013 and 1019 through 1021;

(j) that part of Baltimore County election district 1, precinct 14 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 4004.00, blocks 4006 through 4009, 5000 through 5007, and 5009; and

(ii) census tract 4005.00, block 1022;

(k) that part of Baltimore County election district 2, precinct 7 that consists of census tract 4023.06, blocks 1000 through 1003;

(l) that part of Baltimore County election district 2, precinct 14 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 4026.03, blocks 2008 through 2020 and 3001 through 3006; and

(ii) census tract 4026.04, blocks 2002 through 2013;

(m) that part of Baltimore County election district 4, precinct 9 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 4044.02, block 1000;

(ii) census tract 4044.04, blocks 1000 and 1001; and

(iii) census tract 4046.00, blocks 1003, 1004, 1006 through 1010, 1012 through 1028, 1031 through 1035, 2000 through 2011, 2016, 2018 through 2027, and 2038;

(n) that part of Baltimore County election district 8, precinct 27 that consists of census tract 4082.00, blocks 1006, 1007, 1013 through 1015, and 1017;

(o) that part of Baltimore County election district 13, precinct 3 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 4306.00, blocks 2000, 2018, and 2019; and

(ii) census tract 4307.00, blocks 3017 and 3018; and

(p) that part of Baltimore County election district 13, precinct 4 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 4306.00, blocks 1014, 1016 through 1022, and 2001 through 2017; and

(ii) census tract 4307.00, blocks 4008 through 4011;

(11) legislative district 11 consists of:

(a) delegate district 11A (single member delegate district):

(i) Baltimore County election district 2, precincts 15, 26, and 29;

(ii) Baltimore County election district 4, precincts 1, 13, 14, and 15;

(iii) Baltimore County election district 8, precincts 21 and 23;

(iv) that part of Baltimore County election district 2, precinct 14 that consists of census tract 4026.03, blocks 2005, 2006, and 3000;

(v) that part of Baltimore County election district 2, precinct 25 that consists of census tract 4026.03, blocks 3007 and 3008;

(vi) that part of Baltimore County election district 3, precinct 11 that consists of census tract 4037.04, blocks 1006 through 1011, 1013, 1015, 1016, and 1018;

(vii) that part of Baltimore County election district 3, precinct 12 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 4037.02, blocks 2000 through 2004 and 3000 through 3012; and

2. census tract 4037.04, blocks 2008 and 2009;

(viii) that part of Baltimore County election district 3, precinct 14 that consists of census tract 4037.02, blocks 1004, 1010, and 1011;

(ix) that part of Baltimore County election district 4, precinct 3 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 4042.02, blocks 1004 and 5000; and

2. census tract 4049.00, blocks 1000 through 1009, 2002, 2003, 3003, and 3004; and

(x) that part of Baltimore County election district 8, precinct 27 that consists of census tract 4083.04, blocks 1000 and 1003 through 1009; and

(b) delegate district 11B (two member delegate district):

(i) Baltimore County election district 2, precinct 8;

(ii) Baltimore County election district 3, precincts 2, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, and 13;

(iii) Baltimore County election district 8, precincts 2, 8, 9, 10, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 24, 26, and 28;

(iv) that part of Baltimore County election district 2, precinct 23 that consists of census tract 4023.05, blocks 1003 through 1008;

(v) that part of Baltimore County election district 2, precinct 25 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 4026.03, blocks 3009 and 3010; and

2. census tract 4026.04, blocks 1008 through 1010;

(vi) that part of Baltimore County election district 3, precinct 4 that consists of census tract 4033.00, blocks 1000 through 1017 and 2000 through 2021;

(vii) that part of Baltimore County election district 3, precinct 11 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 4037.03, blocks 1005 through 1014 and 2000 through 2005; and

2. census tract 4037.04, blocks 1000 through 1005, 1012, 1014, and 1017;

(viii) that part of Baltimore County election district 3, precinct 12 that consists of census tract 4037.04, blocks 2007 and 2014 through 2016;

(ix) that part of Baltimore County election district 3, precinct 14 that consists of census tract 4037.02, blocks 1000 through 1003, 1005 through 1009, and 1012 through 1014;

(x) that part of Baltimore County election district 4, precinct 3 that consists of census tract 4049.00, blocks 2000, 2001, and 2004 through 2011;

(xi) that part of Baltimore County election district 8, precinct 1 that consists of census tract 4084.00, blocks 1003, 1009 through 1011, and 1042;

(xii) that part of Baltimore County election district 8, precinct 3 that consists of census tract 4089.00, blocks 1002, 1005, and 1006;

(xiii) that part of Baltimore County election district 8, precinct 7 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 4084.00, blocks 1026 through 1030, 1032 through 1041, and 1043 through 1058; and

2. census tract 4085.03, blocks 1001 through 1003, 1005 through 1008, 2004 through 2007, and 2009;

(xiv) that part of Baltimore County election district 8, precinct 11 that consists of census tract 4085.05, blocks 2005 through 2018;

(xv) that part of Baltimore County election district 8, precinct 14 that consists of census tract 4088.00, blocks 1000 through 1014, 1016 through 1022, 2000, and 2003;

(xvi) that part of Baltimore County election district 9, precinct 1 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 4904.00, blocks 1000 through 1032 and 2000 through 2006; and

2. census tract 4905.00, blocks 1006, 2003, 2006, 2014, and 3000 through 3019;

(xvii) that part of Baltimore County election district 9, precinct 2 that consists of census tract 4905.00, blocks 2000 through 2002, 2009 through 2013, and 2015 through 2029;

(xviii) that part of Baltimore County election district 9, precinct 3 that consists of census tract 4906.03, blocks 2001 through 2009; and

(xix) that part of Baltimore County election district 9, precinct 7 that consists of census tract 4902.00, blocks 2004, 2005, 3000 through 3004, 3006, 3009, and 3010;

(12) legislative district 12 consists of:

(a) delegate district 12A (two member delegate district):

(i) Howard County election district 1, precincts 1, 2, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, and 21;

(ii) Howard County election district 5, precincts 2, 3, 4, 7, 8, 9, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 21, and 23;

(iii) Howard County election district 6, precincts 14 and 16;

(iv) that part of Howard County election district 1, precinct 3 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 6011.03, blocks 1002 and 1003; and

2. census tract 6011.08, blocks 1002 through 1006;

(v) that part of Howard County election district 2, precinct 3 that consists of census tract 6023.02, blocks 3000 through 3002, 3006, 4010, and 4011;

(vi) that part of Howard County election district 2, precinct 4 that consists of census tract 6023.02, blocks 1000 through 1024, 2007, 2017, 2019, 2020, and 3003;

(vii) that part of Howard County election district 2, precinct 14 that consists of census tract 6023.06, blocks 3004 and 3007 through 3011;

(viii) that part of Howard County election district 2, precinct 20 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 6023.02, blocks 2006 and 2018; and

2. census tract 6023.06, blocks 3001 through 3003, 3005, 3006, and 3012;

(ix) that part of Howard County election district 6, precinct 6 that consists of census tract 6066.01, blocks 1000 through 1004; and

(x) that part of Howard County election district 6, precinct 29 that consists of census tract 6066.06, block 2004; and

(b) delegate district 12B (single member delegate district):

(i) Anne Arundel County election district 1, precincts 4, 7, 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, and 18;

(ii) Anne Arundel County election district 2, precincts 12 and 19;

(iii) Anne Arundel County election district 3, precinct 25;

(iv) that part of Anne Arundel County election district 1, precinct 2 that consists of census tract 7512.00, blocks 2030, 2042, and 2043;

(v) that part of Anne Arundel County election district 1, precinct 6 that consists of census tract 7512.00, blocks 2014, 2015, 2035, 2036, 2039, and 2040;

(vi) that part of Anne Arundel County election district 1, precinct 14 that consists of census tract 7508.04, blocks 3000 and 3001;

(vii) that part of Anne Arundel County election district 2, precinct 8 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 7510.00, blocks 1000 through 1011, 2000 through 2013, 2018, and 3000 through 3012; and

2. census tract 7511.02, block 2025;

(viii) that part of Anne Arundel County election district 3, precinct 6 that consists of census tract 7302.04, blocks 1000 through 1003, 1013, 1014, and 4000; and

(ix) that part of Anne Arundel County election district 3, precinct 8 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 7302.04, blocks 1005 through 1012, 2000, and 2001; and

2. census tract 7302.06, blocks 1023 through 1025, 1028, and 1029;

(13) legislative district 13 consists of:

(a) Howard County election district 1, precincts 6 and 15;

(b) Howard County election district 5, precincts 5, 11, and 20;

(c) Howard County election district 6, precincts 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 15, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, and 35;

(d) that part of Howard County election district 1, precinct 3 that consists of census tract 6011.08, blocks 2000 through 2004;

(e) that part of Howard County election district 5, precinct 6 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 6051.05, blocks 1000 through 1032, 2012 through 2014, 3000 through 3015, and 3027 through 3029; and

(ii) census tract 6051.06, blocks 1017, 1018, 1020, and 1021;

(f) that part of Howard County election district 5, precinct 19 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 6051.03, blocks 1000 through 1008 and 1013 through 1016; and

(ii) census tract 6051.04, blocks 2006, 2008, and 2010 through 2016;

(g) that part of Howard County election district 5, precinct 22 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 6051.05, block 2008;

(ii) census tract 6055.04, blocks 1005 through 1015; and

(iii) census tract 6055.05, blocks 1012, 2001, 2002, and 3004 through 3007;

(h) that part of Howard County election district 6, precinct 6 that consists of census tract 6066.01, blocks 1005 through 1010 and 1013 through 1018; and

(i) that part of Howard County election district 6, precinct 29 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 6066.06, blocks 2005 and 2006;

(ii) census tract 6067.06, blocks 1000 through 1013 and 2000 through 2009; and

(iii) census tract 6067.08, blocks 1004, 1005, 1010 through 1015, 1018 through 1025, 1032, and 1036;

(14) legislative district 14 consists of:

(a) Montgomery County election district 1, precincts 1, 2, and 7;

(b) Montgomery County election district 5, precincts 1, 2, 4, 8, 9, 12, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 21, and 23;

(d) Montgomery County election district 12, precincts 3 and 4;

(e) that part of Montgomery County election district 1, precinct 5 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7001.01, blocks 1001, 1003, 1005, and 1015; and

(ii) census tract 7001.03, blocks 4002 through 4005 and 4008 through 4010;

(f) that part of Montgomery County election district 2, precinct 6 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7002.09, blocks 3001, 3005 through 3007, and 3013 through 3015;

(ii) census tract 7002.10, blocks 3000 through 3017, 3021, 3022, 3028, and 3029; and

(iii) census tract 7003.15, blocks 2004, 2009, and 3018; and

(g) that part of Montgomery County election district 12, precinct 1 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7002.04, block 1019;

(ii) census tract 7002.06, blocks 3000 through 3004 and 3011; and

(iii) census tract 7002.08, blocks 2000, 2001, and 2004 through 2008;

(15) legislative district 15 consists of:

(a) Montgomery County election districts 3 and 11;

(b) Montgomery County election district 2, precincts 2, 3, 4, 5, and 11;

(d) Montgomery County election district 6, precincts 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 11, 13, 14, and 15;

(e) Montgomery County election district 9, precinct 33;

(f) Montgomery County election district 10, precincts 1, 4, 5, 6, 12, and 13;

(g) that part of Montgomery County election district 2, precinct 8 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7003.08, blocks 1002, 1004, 1005, 4002, and 4003;

(ii) census tract 7003.10, blocks 1002 and 1003;

(iii) census tract 7003.16, blocks 1003 through 1010, 1016, and 2007 through 2016; and

(iv) census tract 7003.17, blocks 1000 through 1070, 1078 through 1097, 2008 through 2010, and 2015 through 2018;

(h) that part of Montgomery County election district 4, precinct 18 that consists of census tract 7060.12, blocks 1004 and 1009; and

(i) that part of Montgomery County election district 10, precinct 11 that consists of census tract 7060.12, blocks 1000 through 1002, 1005 through 1007, 2000, 2002, 2003, and 3000 through 3002;

(16) legislative district 16 consists of:

(a) Montgomery County election district 4, precinct 28;

(b) Montgomery County election district 7, precincts 3, 4, 7, 8, 10, 11, 12, 13, 15, 18, 19, 20, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, and 31;

(d) that part of Montgomery County election district 4, precinct 5 that consists of census tract 7010.01, block 3012;

(e) that part of Montgomery County election district 4, precinct 10 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7012.22, blocks 1000 through 1007; and

(ii) census tract 7012.23, blocks 1000 through 1004 and 2000 through 2005;

(f) that part of Montgomery County election district 4, precinct 11 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7010.01, block 3013; and

(ii) census tract 7010.02, blocks 2008 through 2010, 2013 through 2015, and 2017 through 2024;

(g) that part of Montgomery County election district 4, precinct 13 that consists of census tract 7012.05, blocks 1010 through 1018, 1021, 1029, 2006, 2008 through 2017, 2021 through 2025, 2029, and 2030;

(h) that part of Montgomery County election district 4, precinct 17 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7012.16, blocks 1000, 1001, and 1004 through 1011; and

(ii) census tract 7012.22, blocks 2000 through 2005 and 3000 through 3010;

(i) that part of Montgomery County election district 4, precinct 18 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7012.05, blocks 1000 through 1009, 1019, 1020, 1022 through 1028, 1030, 2002, 2018 through 2020, 2026 through 2028, 2031, 3000 through 3003, 3005, 3008 through 3019, and 4000 through 4013; and

(ii) census tract 7012.16, blocks 1002 and 1003;

(j) that part of Montgomery County election district 4, precinct 30 that consists of census tract 7010.01, block 3005;

(k) that part of Montgomery County election district 4, precinct 31 that consists of census tract 7012.15, blocks 1000 through 1002, 2000, 2001, 3000 through 3006, and 4000;

(l) that part of Montgomery County election district 7, precinct 9 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7044.01, blocks 1002, 1004 through 1006, and 1033;

(ii) census tract 7044.03, blocks 1000 and 1001;

(iii) census tract 7044.04, blocks 1000 through 1010, 1016 through 1019, and 2000 through 2007;

(iv) census tract 7048.06, blocks 1000, 1001, 3006, and 3007; and

(v) census tract 7050.00, blocks 1000, 1002, 1010, 1018, 1019, 2000 through 2002, 3000 through 3012, 4000 through 4005, and 6000 through 6019; and

(m) that part of Montgomery County election district 10, precinct 11 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7012.05, blocks 3004, 3006, 3007, 3020, and 3021; and

(ii) census tract 7060.12, blocks 1003 and 1010;

(17) legislative district 17 consists of:

(a) Montgomery County election district 4, precincts 2, 3, 6, 7, 16, 21, 25, 33, 37, 40, 41, and 42;

(b) Montgomery County election district 6, precinct 16;

(d) that part of Montgomery County election district 4, precinct 1 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7009.01, blocks 1000, 1002, 1032, 3000, 3003, and 3004;

(ii) census tract 7009.02, blocks 1000 through 1030 and 2000 through 2027;

(iii) census tract 7009.03, blocks 1000 through 1024;

(iv) census tract 7009.04, blocks 2000, 2001, and 2005;

(v) census tract 7011.02, blocks 1008 and 1009;

(vi) census tract 7012.11, blocks 4002, 4005, and 4010 through 4012; and

(vii) census tract 7013.03, block 2013;

(e) that part of Montgomery County election district 4, precinct 5 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7009.01, blocks 1001, 1012, 1013, 1021 through 1025, 1030, and 1031;

(ii) census tract 7009.04, blocks 2002 through 2004, 2007 through 2009, 2011, and 2012;

(iii) census tract 7010.01, blocks 1000 through 1020, 2007, 2011 through 2016, 2019, 3007 through 3009, and 3014; and

(iv) census tract 7010.02, block 2007;

(f) that part of Montgomery County election district 4, precinct 9 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7011.01, blocks 2000 through 2005, 2009 through 2016, 3000 through 3012, 4009 through 4011, 4013 through 4015, 4017, and 4018; and

(ii) census tract 7032.02, block 2009;

(g) that part of Montgomery County election district 4, precinct 11 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7010.01, blocks 3010 and 3011; and

(ii) census tract 7010.02, blocks 2011 and 2012;

(h) that part of Montgomery County election district 4, precinct 13 that consists of census tract 7012.05, block 2007;

(i) that part of Montgomery County election district 4, precinct 14 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7010.04, blocks 1000 through 1009 and 3000 through 3003; and

(ii) census tract 7012.11, blocks 2000 through 2002, 3004, 5001 through 5015, 7001 through 7015, and 8000 through 8015;

(j) that part of Montgomery County election district 4, precinct 27 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7011.01, block 2008; and

(ii) census tract 7012.19, blocks 1003, 1005, 1014, and 1016;

(k) that part of Montgomery County election district 4, precinct 30 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7009.04, blocks 1002, 1006 through 1009, 1011, and 2010;

(ii) census tract 7009.05, blocks 1000 through 1003 and 2000 through 2007;

(iii) census tract 7010.01, blocks 3000 through 3004, 3006, 3015, and 3016;

(iv) census tract 7012.05, blocks 2001 and 2003 through 2005; and

(v) census tract 7012.18, blocks 1002 and 1003;

(l) that part of Montgomery County election district 4, precinct 38 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7011.01, block 3015; and

(ii) census tract 7011.02, block 2001;

(m) that part of Montgomery County election district 4, precinct 43 that consists of census tract 7012.19, block 1001;

(n) that part of Montgomery County election district 6, precinct 3 that consists of census tract 7006.10, block 1035;

(o) that part of Montgomery County election district 9, precinct 15 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7007.21, blocks 2004 and 2005;

(ii) census tract 7007.23, blocks 3000 through 3004, 4007, and 4008;

(iii) census tract 7007.33, blocks 1001 through 1007, 2000 through 2009, 3000 through 3004, and 3008 through 3018; and

(iv) census tract 7008.13, blocks 1003 and 4004;

(p) that part of Montgomery County election district 9, precinct 24 that consists of census tract 7007.06, block 2004;

(q) that part of Montgomery County election district 9, precinct 31 that consists of census tract 7007.18, blocks 1000 through 1002, 1005 through 1014, 2001 through 2003, 2005 through 2021, 4006 through 4010, and 4013 through 4025; and

(r) that part of Montgomery County election district 13, precinct 51 that consists of census tract 7032.02, blocks 2006, 2010, and 2015;

(18) legislative district 18 consists of:

(a) Montgomery County election district 4, precincts 4, 8, 15, and 26;

(b) Montgomery County election district 7, precincts 1, 2, 5, 6, 16, 21, and 32;

(c) Montgomery County election district 13, precincts 3, 16, 24, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 34, 36, 38, 40, 44, 53, 58, and 59;

(d) that part of Montgomery County election district 4, precinct 10 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7012.02, blocks 2022 and 2023; and

(ii) census tract 7012.14, block 2004;

(e) that part of Montgomery County election district 4, precinct 17 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7012.02, blocks 2005 and 2006; and

(ii) census tract 7012.16, blocks 2004, 2005, 3002, and 3003;

(f) that part of Montgomery County election district 4, precinct 27 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7012.01, blocks 1000 and 1002; and

(ii) census tract 7012.19, blocks 1000, 1002, 1007, 1011, 2000, and 2012;

(g) that part of Montgomery County election district 4, precinct 31 that consists of census tract 7012.14, blocks 1004, 2005, and 2008;

(h) that part of Montgomery County election district 4, precinct 38 that consists of census tract 7011.02, blocks 2002, 2017, and 2022 through 2024;

(i) that part of Montgomery County election district 4, precinct 43 that consists of census tract 7012.19, block 1006;

(j) that part of Montgomery County election district 7, precinct 9 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7044.01, blocks 1000 and 1003;

(ii) census tract 7050.00, blocks 1001 and 1015; and

(iii) census tract 7051.00, block 1007;

(k) that part of Montgomery County election district 13, precinct 7 that consists of census tract 7028.00, blocks 1000 through 1017, 1020 through 1022, 2001 through 2038, 2040, and 2041;

(l) that part of Montgomery County election district 13, precinct 25 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7033.02, block 3015;

(ii) census tract 7034.01, blocks 1015 and 3015; and

(iii) census tract 7035.01, blocks 1000, 1001, 2000 through 2024, 3000 through 3013, and 4000 through 4013; and

(m) that part of Montgomery County election district 13, precinct 39 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7026.02, blocks 1002 through 1004;

(ii) census tract 7027.00, blocks 2000 through 2017 and 3000 through 3015; and

(iii) census tract 7052.00, blocks 1004 and 1005;

(19) legislative district 19 consists of:

(a) Montgomery County election district 4, precincts 19, 34, and 36;

(b) Montgomery County election district 8, precincts 3, 4, and 8;

(d) Montgomery County election district 13, precincts 1, 2, 11, 20, 33, 35, 37, 43, 45, 46, 49, 52, 54, 55, 56, 57, 60, 61, 63, 64, 69, 70, and 71;

(e) that part of Montgomery County election district 1, precinct 5 that consists of census tract 7001.03, blocks 3000 through 3008, 4006, 4007, and 4011 through 4014;

(f) that part of Montgomery County election district 4, precinct 1 that consists of census tract 7012.11, block 4008;

(g) that part of Montgomery County election district 4, precinct 9 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7011.01, block 2006; and

(ii) census tract 7032.02, block 2008;

(h) that part of Montgomery County election district 4, precinct 14 that consists of census tract 7012.11, blocks 3003, 5000, and 7000;

(i) that part of Montgomery County election district 4, precinct 27 that consists of census tract 7011.01, block 2007;

(j) that part of Montgomery County election district 9, precinct 31 that consists of census tract 7007.18, blocks 2000, 2004, and 4011;

(k) that part of Montgomery County election district 9, precinct 37 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7007.10, blocks 4002 and 4005;

(ii) census tract 7007.20, blocks 3000 through 3002;

(iii) census tract 7007.29, blocks 2008 and 2009; and

(iv) census tract 7007.30, blocks 1000 through 1004 and 1006 through 1013;

(l) that part of Montgomery County election district 13, precinct 25 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7032.01, block 4011; and

(ii) census tract 7033.01, block 4011; and

(m) that part of Montgomery County election district 13, precinct 51 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7013.03, block 2015;

(ii) census tract 7032.01, blocks 3000 through 3013 and 4000 through 4006; and

(iii) census tract 7032.02, blocks 2000 through 2005, 2007, and 2011 through 2014;

(20) legislative district 20 consists of:

(a) Montgomery County election district 5, precincts 3, 5, 6, 10, 11, 13, 14, and 22;

(b) Montgomery County election district 13, precincts 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 13, 14, 15, 18, 19, 21, 22, 23, 42, 47, 50, 65, 67, and 68;

(c) that part of Montgomery County election district 13, precinct 7 that consists of census tract 7028.00, blocks 1018, 1019, 2000, and 2039; and

(d) that part of Montgomery County election district 13, precinct 39 that consists of census tract 7026.02, block 1001;

(21) legislative district 21 consists of:

(a) Anne Arundel County election district 1, precinct 99;

(b) Anne Arundel County election district 4, precincts 10, 25, and 99;

(d) that part of Anne Arundel County election district 4, precinct 18 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7406.03, blocks 1014 and 1017; and

(ii) census tract 7407.04, blocks 1006, 2000 through 2002, 2009 through 2014, 2027 through 2029, 3003 through 3007, and 3036;

(e) that part of Anne Arundel County election district 4, precinct 20 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7406.03, blocks 1000 through 1007, 2057, 2058, and 2071;

(ii) census tract 7407.01, blocks 2001, 2002, 2005, and 3001 through 3014;

(iii) census tract 7407.04, blocks 3000 through 3002; and

(iv) census tract 7515.00, blocks 1014 and 1015;

(f) that part of Anne Arundel County election district 4, precinct 21 that consists of census tract 7022.08, blocks 1003, 1007 through 1011, and 1013 through 1015;

(g) that part of Anne Arundel County election district 4, precinct 23 that consists of census tract 7407.04, blocks 2003 through 2008;

(h) that part of Anne Arundel County election district 7, precinct 14 that consists of census tract 7022.04, blocks 2012 and 2013;

(i) that part of Anne Arundel County election district 7, precinct 26 that consists of census tract 7023.00, blocks 3005 through 3007;

(j) Prince George’s County election district 1;

(k) Prince George’s County election district 10, precincts 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 9, 12, and 13;

(l) Prince George’s County election district 17, precinct 9;

(m) Prince George’s County election district 19, precinct 98;

(n) Prince George’s County election district 21, precincts 1, 2, 4, 10, 15, 17, 94, 95, and 99;

(o) that part of Prince George’s County election district 17, precinct 12 that consists of census tract 8059.04, blocks 1001 through 1004 and 1006;

(p) that part of Prince George’s County election district 17, precinct 13 that consists of census tract 8057.00, block 3004;

(q) that part of Prince George’s County election district 17, precinct 14 that consists of census tract 8059.09, blocks 1000 through 1002, 1004, and 1005;

(r) that part of Prince George’s County election district 21, precinct 5 that consists of census tract 8073.05, block 2014;

(s) that part of Prince George’s County election district 21, precinct 12 that consists of census tract 8064.00, blocks 1000, 1006, 1009, and 1010;

(t) that part of Prince George’s County election district 21, precinct 14 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 8073.01, blocks 1002, 1003, 2000, and 2001;

(ii) census tract 8074.05, blocks 3016 through 3018; and

(iii) census tract 8074.09, blocks 1001 through 1006;

(u) that part of Prince George’s County election district 21, precinct 96 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 8068.00, block 3008; and

(ii) census tract 8071.02, blocks 2011 and 2012; and

(v) that part of Prince George’s County election district 21, precinct 97 that consists of census tract 8074.08, block 1017;

(22) legislative district 22 consists of:

(a) Prince George’s County election district 2, precincts 6, 10, 96, 97, 98, and 99;

(b) Prince George’s County election district 13, precinct 21;

(d) Prince George’s County election district 17, precinct 15;

(e) Prince George’s County election district 19, precincts 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 99;

(f) Prince George’s County election district 20, precincts 5, 6, 11, 14, 15, 18, 98, and 99;

(g) Prince George’s County election district 21, precincts 3, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 13, 16, 18, 19, 91, 92, and 98;

(h) that part of Prince George’s County election district 2, precinct 5 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 8039.00, blocks 2002 and 3014; and

(ii) census tract 8040.02, blocks 2000 and 2004;

(i) that part of Prince George’s County election district 13, precinct 8 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 8034.03, blocks 3000 through 3004 and 4002 through 4004; and

(ii) census tract 8035.08, blocks 2015 and 2017;

(j) that part of Prince George’s County election district 13, precinct 19 that consists of census tract 8033.00, block 1000;

(k) that part of Prince George’s County election district 13, precinct 20 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 8035.08, blocks 1000 and 1002;

(ii) census tract 8036.01, blocks 2007 through 2011 and 2015; and

(iii) census tract 8036.02, blocks 2019 and 2023 through 2026;

(l) that part of Prince George’s County election district 14, precinct 2 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 8004.12, blocks 2000 and 2001; and

(ii) census tract 8004.13, blocks 1000, 1001, 2000 through 2002, and 2009 through 2011;

(m) that part of Prince George’s County election district 14, precinct 8 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 8004.11, blocks 1012, 1018, 1019, and 1027 through 1034;

(ii) census tract 8004.12, blocks 1000 through 1015; and

(iii) census tract 8067.11, blocks 2000 through 2004;

(n) that part of Prince George’s County election district 16, precinct 3 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 8060.00, block 1010;

(ii) census tract 8061.00, blocks 1000 through 1002, 1005 through 1007, 1012 through 1027, 2000 through 2004, and 2016 through 2024; and

(iii) census tract 8075.00, blocks 1003 through 1033, 2000 through 2005, 3017 through 3033, 3049, and 3050;

(o) that part of Prince George’s County election district 17, precinct 8 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 8059.08, blocks 1001, 1003, 1004, and 1008; and

(ii) census tract 8059.09, blocks 1015 through 1020;

(p) that part of Prince George’s County election district 17, precinct 14 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 8059.08, blocks 1011 through 1014 and 1016; and

(ii) census tract 8059.09, blocks 1003, 1006 through 1014, 2000, and 2001;

(q) that part of Prince George’s County election district 20, precinct 1 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 8036.05, blocks 1000, 1001, 2000 through 2011, and 2013 through 2031; and

(ii) census tract 8036.06, blocks 3000 through 3012;

(r) that part of Prince George’s County election district 20, precinct 2 that consists of census tract 8036.13, blocks 2008 and 2009;

(s) that part of Prince George’s County election district 20, precinct 7 that consists of census tract 8035.09, blocks 1007 through 1009 and 1011;

(t) that part of Prince George’s County election district 20, precinct 12 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 8036.12, blocks 1009 and 1010; and

(ii) census tract 8036.13, blocks 1000, 1011, 2000 through 2005, 2010, and 3000 through 3004;

(u) that part of Prince George’s County election district 20, precinct 13 that consists of census tract 8036.12, blocks 1011 and 2004 through 2009;

(v) that part of Prince George’s County election district 20, precinct 16 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 8004.08, blocks 2019 and 2030;

(ii) census tract 8036.07, blocks 2014 and 2015; and

(iii) census tract 8036.08, blocks 1000, 1007, 1008, 1010, and 1017 through 1019;

(w) that part of Prince George’s County election district 21, precinct 12 that consists of census tract 8064.00, blocks 1001 through 1003, 1007, and 1008;

(x) that part of Prince George’s County election district 21, precinct 96 that consists of census tract 8071.02, blocks 2013 and 2014; and

(y) that part of Prince George’s County election district 21, precinct 97 that consists of census tract 8074.08, block 1036;

(23) legislative district 23 consists of:

(a) Prince George’s County election district 3, precincts 1, 2, 3, 5, and 8;

(b) Prince George’s County election district 7, precincts 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 14, 15, 16, 17, 19, 20, 21, and 23;

(d) Prince George’s County election district 14, precincts 4, 5, 6, 11, 13, 14, and 16;

(e) Prince George’s County election district 15, precincts 1, 3, and 4;

(f) that part of Prince George’s County election district 4, precinct 1 that consists of census tract 8008.00, blocks 1002 through 1004, 1011 through 1017, 1019 through 1021, and 1031;

(g) that part of Prince George’s County election district 7, precinct 18 that consists of census tract 8005.13, blocks 4011, 4013, and 4016;

(h) that part of Prince George’s County election district 11, precinct 2 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 8010.04, blocks 1000 through 1002 and 1022; and

(ii) census tract 8010.06, blocks 2006, 2007, and 2010 through 2014;

(i) that part of Prince George’s County election district 11, precinct 3 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 8010.05, blocks 1007 through 1014 and 1016; and

(ii) census tract 8010.06, blocks 1000 through 1017, 2000 through 2005, 2008, 2009, and 2015;

(j) that part of Prince George’s County election district 14, precinct 1 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 8004.03, block 1018;

(ii) census tract 8004.09, blocks 1002 through 1006, 3000 through 3002, and 3006 through 3008; and

(iii) census tract 8004.10, block 2030;

(k) that part of Prince George’s County election district 14, precinct 3 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 8004.02, blocks 2007 through 2024 and 3000 through 3021; and

(ii) census tract 8004.09, blocks 3009, 3015, 3016, 3022, 3023, and 3029;

(l) that part of Prince George’s County election district 14, precinct 8 that consists of census tract 8004.11, block 1013;

(m) that part of Prince George’s County election district 14, precinct 9 that consists of census tract 8004.10, blocks 1000 through 1003, 1008 through 1012, 1014, 2016 through 2019, 2022 through 2027, 2029, 2031 through 2033, 2036 through 2038, 3003, 3005 through 3009, 3011 through 3019, 4000 through 4002, 4004, 4006 through 4011, 4013, 4015, and 4017 through 4020;

(n) that part of Prince George’s County election district 14, precinct 10 that consists of census tract 8004.09, blocks 2006, 2007, 3018, 3019, 3021, 3024 through 3028, 3030, and 3031; and

(o) that part of Prince George’s County election district 15, precinct 6 that consists of census tract 8007.07, blocks 1000 through 1003, 1009 through 1016, and 1021 through 1023;

(24) legislative district 24 consists of:

(a) Prince George’s County election district 6, precincts 3, 6, 12, 15, 19, and 26;

(b) Prince George’s County election district 7, precincts 13, 22, and 24;

(d) Prince George’s County election district 14, precincts 7, 12, 15, and 17;

(e) Prince George’s County election district 18, precincts 1, 2, 4, 7, 8, 10, 11, 13, and 16;

(f) Prince George’s County election district 20, precincts 3, 4, 8, 9, 10, 17, 19, 20, and 21;

(g) that part of Prince George’s County election district 6, precinct 21 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 8020.02, blocks 1001 through 1003 and 1005 through 1008;

(ii) census tract 8024.05, block 1017; and

(iii) census tract 8024.06, blocks 1003 through 1005 and 1007 through 1009;

(h) that part of Prince George’s County election district 7, precinct 18 that consists of census tract 8005.13, block 4012;

(i) that part of Prince George’s County election district 13, precinct 7 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 8035.19, blocks 2000 through 2005 and 3000 through 3015;

(ii) census tract 8035.24, blocks 2000 through 2010; and

(iii) census tract 8035.25, blocks 1000 through 1010 and 2000 through 2005;

(j) that part of Prince George’s County election district 13, precinct 8 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 8034.03, blocks 4000, 4001, and 4008; and

(ii) census tract 8035.08, blocks 2018 through 2020, 3001, and 3002;

(k) that part of Prince George’s County election district 13, precinct 10 that consists of census tract 8035.14, blocks 2000 through 2008, 3000, 3001, 3005 through 3010, and 3012 through 3018;

(l) that part of Prince George’s County election district 13, precinct 11 that consists of census tract 8035.28, blocks 4006 through 4012;

(m) that part of Prince George’s County election district 13, precinct 15 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 8035.16, blocks 1000 through 1004, 2000, and 3004 through 3008; and

(ii) census tract 8035.20, blocks 1000 through 1004, 1006 through 1009, 2000, 2006, and 2007;

(n) that part of Prince George’s County election district 13, precinct 18 that consists of census tract 8034.03, block 4009;

(o) that part of Prince George’s County election district 13, precinct 20 that consists of census tract 8036.02, blocks 2016 and 2022;

(p) that part of Prince George’s County election district 13, precinct 23 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 8035.14, blocks 1012 through 1015; and

(ii) census tract 8035.27, blocks 1001 and 1010;

(q) that part of Prince George’s County election district 13, precinct 25 that consists of census tract 8035.24, blocks 1003, 1007, and 1008;

(r) that part of Prince George’s County election district 14, precinct 1 that consists of census tract 8004.09, blocks 1000, 1001, 1007 through 1009, 1011 through 1014, 2000, 2001, 3003 through 3005, and 3013;

(s) that part of Prince George’s County election district 14, precinct 2 that consists of census tract 8004.12, blocks 2002 through 2010;

(t) that part of Prince George’s County election district 14, precinct 3 that consists of census tract 8004.09, blocks 3010 and 3011;

(u) that part of Prince George’s County election district 14, precinct 9 that consists of census tract 8004.10, blocks 1004 through 1007 and 2035;

(v) that part of Prince George’s County election district 14, precinct 10 that consists of census tract 8004.09, blocks 2002 through 2005, 3012, 3014, 3017, and 3020;

(w) that part of Prince George’s County election district 18, precinct 9 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 8027.00, blocks 1000, 1001, 1014, and 1023;

(ii) census tract 8028.03, blocks 3000 through 3024;

(iii) census tract 8028.04, blocks 2007 through 2011, 3001, and 3008 through 3013; and

(iv) census tract 8029.01, blocks 2006 through 2009, 3009 through 3015, and 3024;

(x) that part of Prince George’s County election district 18, precinct 15 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 8029.01, block 1020; and

(ii) census tract 8030.01, blocks 2034 through 2037 and 2041;

(y) that part of Prince George’s County election district 20, precinct 1 that consists of census tract 8036.06, blocks 2001 through 2010 and 4010;

(z) that part of Prince George’s County election district 20, precinct 7 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 8035.09, blocks 1000, 1005, 1006, and 1010; and

(ii) census tract 8036.02, blocks 1000 through 1007, 2015, 2017, and 2018; and

(aa) that part of Prince George’s County election district 20, precinct 16 that consists of census tract 8004.08, blocks 2021 and 2029;

(25) legislative district 25 consists of:

(a) Prince George’s County election district 3, precincts 4, 6, and 7;

(b) Prince George’s County election district 6, precincts 1, 4, 5, 10, 11, 16, 20, 22, 23, 24, 25, 29, and 99;

(d) Prince George’s County election district 9, precincts 2, 3, 6, 9, 10, and 15;

(e) Prince George’s County election district 11, precinct 5;

(f) Prince George’s County election district 12, precincts 3, 16, and 18;

(g) Prince George’s County election district 13, precincts 4, 6, 9, and 13;

(h) Prince George’s County election district 15, precincts 2 and 5;

(i) Prince George’s County election district 18, precinct 6;

(j) that part of Prince George’s County election district 6, precinct 9 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 8018.01, blocks 1000 through 1012; and

(ii) census tract 8018.02, blocks 2001, 2002, and 2015 through 2018;

(k) that part of Prince George’s County election district 6, precinct 18 that consists of census tract 8019.04, blocks 1021 and 1031;

(l) that part of Prince George’s County election district 6, precinct 21 that consists of census tract 8020.02, blocks 3005 and 4010;

(m) that part of Prince George’s County election district 6, precinct 27 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 8019.04, blocks 1007 through 1014, 1036, and 1037;

(ii) census tract 8019.05, blocks 1012, 1013, and 1018; and

(iii) census tract 8019.06, blocks 1007 through 1014, 2000 through 2002, and 2006 through 2015;

(n) that part of Prince George’s County election district 9, precinct 1 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 8012.10, blocks 1003 through 1010 and 2000 through 2010; and

(ii) census tract 8012.11, blocks 2009 through 2011 and 2013 through 2020;

(o) that part of Prince George’s County election district 9, precinct 4 that consists of census tract 8012.16, blocks 2000 through 2006;

(p) that part of Prince George’s County election district 9, precinct 11 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 8012.07, blocks 1001 through 1017, 2004 through 2010, 2015 through 2018, 2020 through 2023, and 2025; and

(ii) census tract 8012.15, blocks 1001 through 1004 and 1006 through 1012;

(q) that part of Prince George’s County election district 11, precinct 3 that consists of census tract 8010.05, blocks 1003 and 1005;

(r) that part of Prince George’s County election district 13, precinct 10 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 8035.12, blocks 3000 through 3003;

(ii) census tract 8035.13, blocks 1000 through 1002 and 2000 through 2003; and

(iii) census tract 8035.14, blocks 2009, 3002 through 3004, and 3011;

(s) that part of Prince George’s County election district 13, precinct 11 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 8035.26, blocks 2000, 2002, and 2007; and

(ii) census tract 8035.27, blocks 1000, 1003 through 1006, and 1013;

(t) that part of Prince George’s County election district 13, precinct 15 that consists of census tract 8035.20, block 1005;

(u) that part of Prince George’s County election district 13, precinct 23 that consists of census tract 8035.27, blocks 1002, 1007 through 1009, 1011, and 1012;

(v) that part of Prince George’s County election district 15, precinct 6 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 8007.06, blocks 1000 through 1002, 1004, and 1008; and

(ii) census tract 8007.07, blocks 1004 through 1007 and 1017 through 1020; and

(w) that part of Prince George’s County election district 18, precinct 9 that consists of census tract 8028.04, block 2006;

(26) legislative district 26 consists of:

(a) Prince George’s County election district 5, precincts 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, and 12;

(b) Prince George’s County election district 6, precincts 2, 7, 8, 13, 14, 17, 28, and 98;

(d) Prince George’s County election district 12, precincts 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, and 17;

(e) that part of Prince George’s County election district 5, precinct 1 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 8013.10, blocks 2013 and 3001 through 3016; and

(ii) census tract 8013.11, blocks 3028, 3029, and 3032 through 3040;

(f) that part of Prince George’s County election district 6, precinct 9 that consists of census tract 8018.02, blocks 2009, 2013, 2014, 2019, 3003, 3004, 3009, 3011, and 3012;

(g) that part of Prince George’s County election district 6, precinct 18 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 8019.04, blocks 1017 through 1020, 1022 through 1030, 1032, 1033, 1038, and 1039; and

(ii) census tract 8019.05, blocks 1017, 2002, 2004 through 2006, 2009, and 2012 through 2018;

(h) that part of Prince George’s County election district 6, precinct 27 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 8019.05, block 1002; and

(ii) census tract 8019.06, block 1004; and

(i) that part of Prince George’s County election district 9, precinct 1 that consists of census tract 8012.10, blocks 1000 through 1002;

(27) legislative district 27 consists of:

(a) delegate district 27A (single member delegate district):

(i) Charles County election district 6, precincts 5, 8, 12, 17, and 22;

(ii) Charles County election district 8, precincts 2 and 3;

(iii) Charles County election district 9, precinct 1;

(iv) that part of Charles County election district 8, precinct 1 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 8509.04, block 3022;

2. census tract 8513.02, blocks 1000 through 1006 and 1008 through 1012; and

3. census tract 8514.03, blocks 1013, 1015 through 1029, 1031, 1033 through 1039, and 1041;

(v) that part of Charles County election district 8, precinct 4 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 8508.02, blocks 3007, 3008, 3014 through 3037, and 3039;

2. census tract 8509.04, blocks 3000 through 3003, 3009, and 3010; and

3. census tract 8514.03, blocks 1006 through 1011, 1014, 1030, 1032, and 1040;

(vi) that part of Charles County election district 8, precinct 5 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 8513.02, blocks 2000 through 2002 and 2008; and

2. census tract 8514.02, blocks 1004, 1005, 1009, 1010, 1015, and 1021;

(vii) that part of Charles County election district 9, precinct 2 that consists of census tract 8514.02, blocks 1002, 1003, 1006 through 1008, 1017, and 1022;

(viii) that part of Prince George’s County election district 5, precinct 1 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 8013.10, blocks 3000 and 3017 through 3020; and

2. census tract 8013.11, blocks 1007, 2011, 3000 through 3027, 3030, 3031, and 3041 through 3047;

(ix) that part of Prince George’s County election district 9, precinct 4 that consists of census tract 8012.16, blocks 1000 through 1009, 2017, and 2018;

(x) that part of Prince George’s County election district 9, precinct 7 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 8012.09, blocks 1000 through 1007, 2000 through 2008, and 2011 through 2022; and

2. census tract 8013.11, block 1011; and

(xi) that part of Prince George’s County election district 11, precinct 4 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 8010.03, blocks 1004 through 1027, 1029 through 1036, 1038, 2047, and 2048; and

2. census tract 8010.04, blocks 2002, 2003, and 2009;

(b) delegate district 27B (single member delegate district):

(i) Calvert County election district 3, precincts 1, 4, 6, 7, and 8;

(ii) that part of Calvert County election district 2, precinct 7 that consists of census tract 8602.00, blocks 1000 through 1006, 1010 through 1014, and 1019;

(iii) that part of Calvert County election district 3, precinct 2 that consists of census tract 8604.02, blocks 1018, 1028, 2001, 2004, and 2010;

(iv) that part of Calvert County election district 3, precinct 5 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 8602.00, blocks 2003 through 2006 and 2010 through 2017;

2. census tract 8603.00, blocks 1000 through 1011 and 1014 through 1020; and

3. census tract 8604.03, block 1015;

(v) Prince George’s County election district 8;

(vi) Prince George’s County election district 9, precinct 8;

(vii) Prince George’s County election district 11, precinct 1;

(viii) that part of Prince George’s County election district 4, precinct 1 that consists of census tract 8008.00, blocks 1006 through 1010, 1018, 1022 through 1030, 1032, 2000 through 2032, and 3000;

(ix) that part of Prince George’s County election district 9, precinct 7 that consists of census tract 8012.09, blocks 2009 and 2010;

(x) that part of Prince George’s County election district 9, precinct 11 that consists of census tract 8012.07, blocks 2011 through 2014, 2019, 2024, and 2026;

(xi) that part of Prince George’s County election district 11, precinct 2 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 8008.00, blocks 3001 through 3003;

2. census tract 8010.04, blocks 1003 through 1005 and 1010; and

3. census tract 8010.05, blocks 2000 through 2020; and

(xii) that part of Prince George’s County election district 11, precinct 4 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 8010.03, blocks 1000 through 1003, 1028, 1037, 2005, 2007, 2009 through 2017, 2019 through 2027, 2029 through 2031, 2034 through 2037, 2045, and 2046; and

2. census tract 8010.04, blocks 1009, 1011 through 1013, 1016 through 1018, 1020, 1021, 1023 through 1025, 2000, 2001, and 2004 through 2008; and

(i) Calvert County election district 1, precincts 3 and 4;

(ii) Calvert County election district 2, precincts 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 8;

(iii) Calvert County election district 3, precinct 3;

(iv) that part of Calvert County election district 1, precinct 2 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 8609.02, blocks 1025 and 1026; and

2. census tract 8611.00, blocks 1003 and 1049;

(v) that part of Calvert County election district 2, precinct 7 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 8602.00, blocks 1015 through 1018; and

2. census tract 8606.00, blocks 1000 through 1003, 1010, 1011, 1013, 1015, and 1021;

(vi) that part of Calvert County election district 3, precinct 2 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 8603.00, blocks 2010, 2013, 2014, 3001 through 3007, and 3009;

2. census tract 8604.02, blocks 1013 through 1017, 1024, 2005 through 2009, and 2011 through 2017; and

3. census tract 8605.02, blocks 1002 through 1006 and 1012; and

(vii) that part of Calvert County election district 3, precinct 5 that consists of census tract 8602.00, block 2020;

(28) legislative district 28 consists of:

(a) Charles County election districts 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, and 10;

(b) Charles County election district 6, precincts 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 9, 10, 11, 13, 14, 15, 16, 18, 19, 20, and 21;

(i) census tract 8509.04, block 3017; and

(ii) census tract 8513.02, blocks 1007, 1013 through 1032, 2010 through 2015, 2017, and 3000 through 3003;

(d) that part of Charles County election district 8, precinct 4 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 8509.04, blocks 1000, 1001, 1029 through 1031, 1036 through 1056, 1059 through 1079, 1083, 1084, 1087 through 1090, 3004 through 3008, 3011 through 3016, and 3018 through 3021;

(ii) census tract 8510.03, blocks 2000 and 2001; and

(iii) census tract 8510.04, blocks 3031 and 3034 through 3036;

(e) that part of Charles County election district 8, precinct 5 that consists of census tract 8513.02, blocks 2003 through 2007, 2009, and 2016; and

(f) that part of Charles County election district 9, precinct 2 that consists of census tract 8514.02, blocks 1011 through 1014, 1016, 1018 through 1020, 2001 through 2013, and 2016;

(29) legislative district 29 consists of:

(a) delegate district 29A (single member delegate district):

(i) St. Mary’s County election districts 4, 5, and 7;

(ii) St. Mary’s County election district 3, precincts 2 and 4;

(iii) St. Mary’s County election district 6, precincts 1, 2, and 4;

(iv) that part of St. Mary’s County election district 3, precinct 1 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 8754.00, blocks 1000, 1004, 2000, 2001, 2003 through 2024, 4045, and 4046;

2. census tract 8755.01, blocks 1022, 1024, 1025, and 2008; and

3. census tract 8755.02, blocks 1012 through 1046, 1050 through 1055, 1057, 1062 through 1064, and 1066 through 1072;

(v) that part of St. Mary’s County election district 3, precinct 3 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 8754.00, blocks 1001, 1002, and 1006; and

2. census tract 8755.01, block 1023; and

(vi) that part of St. Mary’s County election district 3, precinct 5 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 8755.01, block 2004; and

2. census tract 8755.02, blocks 1058 through 1061;

(b) delegate district 29B (single member delegate district):

(i) St. Mary’s County election district 1;

(ii) St. Mary’s County election district 8, precincts 1, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, and 11;

(iii) that part of St. Mary’s County election district 2, precinct 4 that consists of census tract 8761.02, block 2009;

(iv) that part of St. Mary’s County election district 3, precinct 5 that consists of census tract 8755.01, blocks 2020, 2026, 2027, and 2029;

(v) that part of St. Mary’s County election district 3, precinct 6 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 8755.01, blocks 2014 through 2019, 2021 through 2025, 2028, 2032, 2038, 2040, 2043 through 2046, and 2056 through 2058; and

2. census tract 8756.02, block 3034;

(vi) that part of St. Mary’s County election district 6, precinct 3 that consists of census tract 8756.02, blocks 3024, 3026, 3027, and 3044;

(vii) that part of St. Mary’s County election district 8, precinct 2 that consists of census tract 8756.02, blocks 3021 and 3022;

(viii) that part of St. Mary’s County election district 8, precinct 7 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 8759.04, blocks 2000 through 2003, 2007 through 2009, and 2011;

2. census tract 8760.01, blocks 1010, 2004, and 3000 through 3011;

3. census tract 8760.03, blocks 1000 through 1005, 2011, and 2012; and

4. census tract 8760.04, blocks 1015 and 1041; and

(ix) that part of St. Mary’s County election district 8, precinct 12 that consists of census tract 8760.03, block 2008; and

(i) Calvert County election district 1, precincts 1, 5, 6, and 7;

(ii) that part of Calvert County election district 1, precinct 2 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 8609.01, blocks 1000 through 1003;

2. census tract 8609.02, blocks 1006 through 1013, 1023, 1024, 1027 through 1043, 1047 through 1052, 1055, and 1058;

3. census tract 8610.03, blocks 3000 through 3004, 3006 through 3009, and 3030 through 3032;

4. census tract 8610.04, blocks 1000 through 1011, 1018, and 1019; and

5. census tract 8611.00, blocks 1004, 1050 through 1057, 1061 through 1068, 1070, 1071, and 1075;

(iii) St. Mary’s County election district 9;

(iv) St. Mary’s County election district 2, precincts 1, 2, and 3;

(v) St. Mary’s County election district 8, precinct 6;

(vi) that part of St. Mary’s County election district 2, precinct 4 that consists of census tract 8761.02, blocks 2000 through 2005 and 2008;

(vii) that part of St. Mary’s County election district 3, precinct 1 that consists of census tract 8755.01, block 1015;

(viii) that part of St. Mary’s County election district 3, precinct 3 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 8754.00, blocks 1003, 1005, 1009, 1011, 1013 through 1018, 1022, 1023, 1025, 1026, 1028 through 1035, and 1038; and

2. census tract 8761.01, blocks 2002 through 2004;

(ix) that part of St. Mary’s County election district 3, precinct 5 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 8755.01, blocks 1009, 1011 through 1014, 1016 through 1021, 1026 through 1038, 2000, 2005 through 2007, 2009 through 2013, 2047, and 2054;

2. census tract 8755.02, block 1056; and

3. census tract 8756.02, blocks 3016 and 3017;

(x) that part of St. Mary’s County election district 3, precinct 6 that consists of census tract 8755.01, blocks 2030, 2031, 2033 through 2037, 2039, 2041, and 2042;

(xi) that part of St. Mary’s County election district 6, precinct 3 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 8756.02, blocks 3000 through 3015, 3018 through 3020, and 3023;

2. census tract 8757.00, blocks 2001 through 2003 and 2005 through 2026; and

3. census tract 8758.03, block 4010;

(xii) that part of St. Mary’s County election district 8, precinct 2 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 8756.02, block 2000; and

2. census tract 8758.03, blocks 2002, 3001 through 3007, 3009 through 3017, 4002, 4003, 4005 through 4009, and 4011 through 4015;

(xiii) that part of St. Mary’s County election district 8, precinct 7 that consists of census tract 8758.03, block 1034; and

(xiv) that part of St. Mary’s County election district 8, precinct 12 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 8755.01, block 1010; and

2. census tract 8760.03, blocks 2005 through 2007 and 2009;

(30) legislative district 30 consists of:

(a) delegate district 30A (two member delegate district):

(i) Anne Arundel County election district 5, precinct 20;

(ii) Anne Arundel County election district 6, precincts 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 29, 30, and 32;

(iii) Anne Arundel County election district 7, precinct 5;

(iv) that part of Anne Arundel County election district 5, precinct 5 that consists of census tract 7308.00, blocks 1007 through 1013;

(v) that part of Anne Arundel County election district 5, precinct 23 that consists of census tract 7308.00, blocks 1002, 1005, 1006, 1015 through 1019, and 1021 through 1036;

(vi) that part of Anne Arundel County election district 5, precinct 26 that consists of census tract 7311.03, blocks 1002 through 1012, 2000 through 2006, and 2008;

(vii) that part of Anne Arundel County election district 6, precinct 21 that consists of census tract 7024.02, blocks 1002 through 1004 and 1006; and

(viii) that part of Anne Arundel County election district 7, precinct 27 that consists of census tract 7011.04, blocks 2009 and 2010; and

(b) delegate district 30B (single member delegate district):

(i) Anne Arundel County election district 7, precincts 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 9, 10, 19, 21, 23, and 25; and

(ii) that part of Anne Arundel County election district 7, precinct 27 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 7011.01, blocks 2038, 2039, and 2043;

2. census tract 7011.03, blocks 1013 through 1017, 1038 through 1040, and 1043;

3. census tract 7011.04, blocks 1009, 1010, 2016 through 2021, and 2032 through 2040;

4. census tract 7013.01, blocks 2008 through 2011; and

5. census tract 7014.00, blocks 1000 through 1009, 2004, 2005, 2010 through 2016, 2024, 2026, and 2035;

(31) legislative district 31 consists of:

(a) Anne Arundel County election district 2, precincts 10, 11, 13, 20, 22, 23, and 24;

(b) Anne Arundel County election district 3, precincts 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, and 24;

(d) Anne Arundel County election district 5, precincts 7, 8, 9, 10, 14, 15, 24, 29, 30, 31, 33, and 34;

(e) that part of Anne Arundel County election district 2, precinct 1 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7403.03, blocks 1002 through 1006 and 1014; and

(ii) census tract 7514.00, blocks 2041 through 2045;

(f) that part of Anne Arundel County election district 2, precinct 4 that consists of census tract 7402.03, blocks 1000 and 1001;

(g) that part of Anne Arundel County election district 2, precinct 8 that consists of census tract 7511.02, block 2016;

(h) that part of Anne Arundel County election district 2, precinct 18 that consists of census tract 7305.09, block 2002;

(i) that part of Anne Arundel County election district 2, precinct 21 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7306.01, block 3006;

(ii) census tract 7402.03, blocks 2000, 2001, 2007 through 2012, 3000 through 3010, 3012, and 3013; and

(iii) census tract 7410.00, blocks 2011 through 2013;

(j) that part of Anne Arundel County election district 3, precinct 6 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7301.01, blocks 1000 through 1023;

(ii) census tract 7301.02, blocks 1004 through 1012, 1016 through 1024, 1027 through 1031, 1038 through 1040, 1042, 1048, 1051, and 3000 through 3043; and

(iii) census tract 7313.13, blocks 2001, 2002, and 2010;

(k) that part of Anne Arundel County election district 3, precinct 8 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7302.04, block 1004; and

(ii) census tract 7302.06, blocks 1000 through 1022, 1026, 1027, and 1030;

(l) that part of Anne Arundel County election district 4, precinct 4 that consists of census tract 7408.00, blocks 1003 through 1008, 1011, 1013 through 1025, 1027, and 1028; and

(m) that part of Anne Arundel County election district 5, precinct 19 that consists of census tract 7306.01, blocks 2000 through 2003, 2006, 2012, and 2013;

(32) legislative district 32 consists of:

(a) Anne Arundel County election district 1, precincts 1, 3, 5, 8, 9, 10, 11, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, and 26;

(b) Anne Arundel County election district 2, precincts 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 9, 14, 15, 16, and 17;

(d) that part of Anne Arundel County election district 1, precinct 2 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7504.00, blocks 1025 and 3021;

(ii) census tract 7512.00, blocks 1002 through 1008, 1012 through 1026, 2028, 2029, 2048, and 2093; and

(iii) census tract 9800.00, blocks 1000, 1003 through 1007, and 1009;

(e) that part of Anne Arundel County election district 1, precinct 6 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7401.03, blocks 1006, 2000 through 2003, 2005 through 2009, and 4000 through 4011;

(ii) census tract 7401.07, blocks 1015 and 1016;

(iii) census tract 7512.00, blocks 2037, 2038, 2044 through 2047, 2049 through 2076, 2081, 2084, 2085, 2091, and 2092; and

(iv) census tract 9800.00, block 1019;

(f) that part of Anne Arundel County election district 1, precinct 14 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7508.03, blocks 1004, 2000 through 2011, and 4020; and

(ii) census tract 7508.04, blocks 1001 through 1022;

(g) that part of Anne Arundel County election district 2, precinct 1 that consists of census tract 7514.00, blocks 2016 through 2031, 2036, 2040, 2046, and 2047;

(h) that part of Anne Arundel County election district 2, precinct 4 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7402.03, block 1002;

(ii) census tract 7402.04, blocks 2002 through 2004, 2007, and 2008; and

(iii) census tract 7514.00, blocks 1000 through 1020, 2032 through 2035, and 2037 through 2039;

(i) that part of Anne Arundel County election district 2, precinct 18 that consists of census tract 7305.09, blocks 1000 through 1004 and 3000 through 3008; and

(j) that part of Anne Arundel County election district 2, precinct 21 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7305.10, block 2012;

(ii) census tract 7305.13, block 2008;

(iii) census tract 7305.14, blocks 2004 and 2005; and

(iv) census tract 7410.00, blocks 2000 through 2010, 2020, and 2021;

(33) legislative district 33 consists of:

(a) delegate district 33A (single member delegate district):

(i) Anne Arundel County election district 4, precincts 2, 3, 5, 8, 11, 12, 16, 19, 22, 24, and 26;

(ii) that part of Anne Arundel County election district 4, precinct 4 that consists of census tract 7408.00, blocks 2000, 2001, 2003 through 2006, and 2014 through 2017;

(iii) that part of Anne Arundel County election district 4, precinct 18 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 7407.03, blocks 1007 through 1014; and

2. census tract 7407.04, blocks 2015 through 2026 and 2030;

(iv) that part of Anne Arundel County election district 4, precinct 20 that consists of census tract 7403.04, block 3027;

(v) that part of Anne Arundel County election district 4, precinct 21 that consists of census tract 7022.08, blocks 2000 through 2005; and

(vi) that part of Anne Arundel County election district 4, precinct 23 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 7407.01, block 2014;

2. census tract 7407.03, blocks 1000 through 1006, 2000 through 2004, and 3000 through 3007; and

3. census tract 7409.00, block 1009;

(b) delegate district 33B (single member delegate district):

(i) Anne Arundel County election district 4, precincts 14 and 15;

(ii) Anne Arundel County election district 5, precinct 25;

(iii) Anne Arundel County election district 6, precincts 27, 28, and 31;

(iv) Anne Arundel County election district 7, precincts 7, 11, 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 20, and 22;

(v) that part of Anne Arundel County election district 4, precinct 4 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 7408.00, blocks 2002, 2019, 2020, and 2022; and

2. census tract 7517.00, blocks 1000 through 1011 and 1017 through 1019;

(vi) that part of Anne Arundel County election district 4, precinct 21 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 7022.08, blocks 1000 through 1002, 1004 through 1006, and 1012; and

2. census tract 7408.00, block 2018;

(vii) that part of Anne Arundel County election district 5, precinct 19 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 7306.01, blocks 2004, 2005, and 2007 through 2011;

2. census tract 7306.06, blocks 1012 through 1014; and

3. census tract 7307.02, blocks 3014 through 3017 and 3040;

(viii) that part of Anne Arundel County election district 6, precinct 21 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 7024.02, blocks 1001 and 1007; and

2. census tract 7516.00, blocks 2006, 2007, and 2016;

(ix) that part of Anne Arundel County election district 7, precinct 14 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 7022.04, blocks 2000 through 2011; and

2. census tract 7022.05, blocks 2018 and 2022; and

(x) that part of Anne Arundel County election district 7, precinct 26 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 7022.04, blocks 1001 through 1012; and

2. census tract 7023.00, blocks 1006, 1007, 3003, 3004, and 3019 through 3025; and

(i) Anne Arundel County election district 5, precincts 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 11, 12, 13, 16, 17, 18, 21, 22, 27, 28, 32, and 35;

(ii) that part of Anne Arundel County election district 5, precinct 5 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 7307.01, blocks 1002 through 1009, 1011, 1012, 1018, and 2000 through 2007; and

2. census tract 7308.00, block 1014;

(iii) that part of Anne Arundel County election district 5, precinct 23 that consists of census tract 7308.00, blocks 1000, 1001, 1003, 1004, and 1020; and

(iv) that part of Anne Arundel County election district 5, precinct 26 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 7310.04, block 2012; and

2. census tract 7311.06, blocks 1001, 1004 through 1008, 2014, and 2015;

(34) legislative district 34 consists of:

(a) delegate district 34A (two member delegate district):

(i) Harford County election district 6;

(ii) Harford County election district 1, precincts 1, 3, 5, 6, 10, 16, 18, 19, 20, 23, 24, and 41;

(iii) Harford County election district 2, precincts 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 10, 14, 15, 19, and 21;

(iv) that part of Harford County election district 1, precinct 4 that consists of census tract 3014.01, blocks 2000, 2001, 2003 through 2006, 2011, and 2016 through 2018;

(v) that part of Harford County election district 2, precinct 2 that consists of census tract 3022.00, blocks 2015 and 2027;

(vi) that part of Harford County election district 2, precinct 11 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 3022.00, block 2036;

2. census tract 3028.01, blocks 1007 through 1014, 1019 through 1025, 2000 through 2004, 2007 through 2014, 3001, 3004 through 3017, 3023, and 3024; and

3. census tract 3029.01, blocks 2000 and 2004 through 2006; and

(vii) that part of Harford County election district 2, precinct 22 that consists of census tract 3022.00, blocks 2042 and 2044; and

(b) delegate district 34B (single member delegate district):

(i) Harford County election district 1, precincts 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 21, 22, 25, 26, and 27;

(ii) Harford County election district 3, precincts 11, 12, 16, 17, and 25;

(iii) that part of Harford County election district 1, precinct 8 that consists of census tract 3012.02, blocks 4016 through 4018;

(iv) that part of Harford County election district 1, precinct 15 that consists of census tract 3012.04, blocks 1000, 1001, 2000, 2001, 2003, and 3000 through 3003;

(v) that part of Harford County election district 3, precinct 10 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 3035.02, block 1000;

2. census tract 3038.01, blocks 1000 through 1035, 2000 through 2004, 2008 through 2016, 2018 through 2021, 2024 through 2027, 2029, and 2031;

3. census tract 3038.02, blocks 1007, 1010, and 1016 through 1018; and

4. census tract 3038.03, blocks 1000 through 1020;

(vi) that part of Harford County election district 3, precinct 13 that consists of census tract 3035.02, block 1001; and

(vii) that part of Harford County election district 3, precinct 18 that consists of census tract 3038.03, block 3010;

(35) legislative district 35 consists of:

(a) delegate district 35A (two member delegate district):

(i) Cecil County election district 8;

(ii) that part of Cecil County election district 6, precinct 2 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 313.01, blocks 2007 through 2011; and

2. census tract 313.02, blocks 1043 through 1053 and 1055;

(iii) that part of Cecil County election district 7, precinct 1 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 312.01, blocks 1004 and 1006 through 1009; and

2. census tract 313.01, blocks 2012 and 2013;

(iv) Harford County election district 5;

(v) Harford County election district 1, precinct 17;

(vi) Harford County election district 2, precinct 20;

(vii) Harford County election district 3, precincts 2, 4, 5, 8, 9, 15, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 26, and 27;

(viii) Harford County election district 4, precincts 4, 7, and 8;

(ix) that part of Harford County election district 2, precinct 2 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 3021.00, blocks 1000 through 1019, 2000, and 2002 through 2015; and

2. census tract 3022.00, blocks 1000 through 1011, 2000 through 2014, 2019 through 2026, 2028, 2030, 2034, 2040, 2041, 2050, and 2052;

(x) that part of Harford County election district 2, precinct 11 that consists of census tract 3022.00, block 2039;

(xi) that part of Harford County election district 2, precinct 22 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 3022.00, blocks 2033, 2037, 2038, 2043, 2045 through 2049, 2051, 2055, and 2056;

2. census tract 3028.01, blocks 2005 and 2006; and

3. census tract 3028.02, blocks 1006 through 1009, 4002, and 4005;

(xii) that part of Harford County election district 3, precinct 3 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 3032.05, blocks 1003 through 1006, 1008, and 1009;

2. census tract 3033.00, blocks 1000 through 1020, 2000, 2001, 2004 through 2009, and 2017; and

3. census tract 3035.02, block 3007;

(xiii) that part of Harford County election district 3, precinct 10 that consists of census tract 3038.02, block 1015;

(xiv) that part of Harford County election district 3, precinct 13 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 3035.02, blocks 1009, 1010, 2000 through 2006, 3000 through 3006, 3008 through 3011, and 4000 through 4006; and

2. census tract 3038.01, blocks 2005 through 2007, 2017, 2022, 2023, and 2028;

(xv) that part of Harford County election district 3, precinct 18 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 3036.03, blocks 2000 through 2004 and 2006 through 2014;

2. census tract 3036.05, blocks 2000 through 2009;

3. census tract 3038.03, blocks 3000 and 3005 through 3009; and

4. census tract 3039.00, blocks 1000, 1006 through 1009, and 1038;

(xvi) that part of Harford County election district 4, precinct 1 that consists of census tract 3042.02, blocks 4002 through 4004;

(xvii) that part of Harford County election district 4, precinct 3 that consists of census tract 3041.02, blocks 1000, 1001, 1016, 1017, 1019, 1042, 3000, 3001, 3003 through 3005, and 3029 through 3031;

(xviii) that part of Harford County election district 4, precinct 5 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 3042.01, block 4000; and

2. census tract 3042.02, blocks 1018, 1019, 4000, 4001, 4005, 4006, and 4008 through 4010; and

(xix) that part of Harford County election district 4, precinct 6 that consists of census tract 3041.02, block 1033; and

(b) delegate district 35B (single member delegate district):

(i) Cecil County election district 9;

(ii) Cecil County election district 5, precincts 2, 4, and 5;

(iii) Cecil County election district 6, precincts 1 and 3;

(iv) Cecil County election district 7, precincts 2, 3, and 4;

(v) that part of Cecil County election district 3, precinct 6 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 305.01, blocks 1004 through 1006 and 1016; and

2. census tract 305.03, blocks 3003 and 3004;

(vi) that part of Cecil County election district 4, precinct 1 that consists of census tract 306.01, blocks 1000 through 1010, 1013, 2003, 2004, 2008, and 2010;

(vii) that part of Cecil County election district 5, precinct 1 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 309.03, blocks 1000, 1004, 1007, 1010, 1011, 1029, 1031, 1034, 1043, 1045, 1046, 2009 through 2012, 2014, 2017, 2019 through 2027, 2031 through 2033, 2035 through 2037, 3011, 3012, 3015, 3026, 3027, and 3029 through 3033;

2. census tract 309.04, blocks 1000, 1002, 5003, 5004, 5006, and 5007; and

3. census tract 309.08, blocks 1001 through 1005, 1007, 1009, 1014, 2007 through 2009, 2015, and 2016;

(viii) that part of Cecil County election district 6, precinct 2 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 313.01, blocks 1005, 1007 through 1014, 1021, 1022, 2000 through 2006, and 2014 through 2030; and

2. census tract 313.02, blocks 1036 through 1039, 2009, 2013 through 2020, 2023, and 2024; and

(ix) that part of Cecil County election district 7, precinct 1 that consists of census tract 312.01, blocks 1000 through 1003, 1005, 1011 through 1021, 2003 through 2015, 2022 through 2028, 2030, 2032, 2038 through 2041, 2056, 3000 through 3002, 3004, 3005, 3013, 3015, 3016, 3041, and 3047;

(36) legislative district 36 consists of:

(a) Kent County;

(b) Queen Anne’s County;

(d) Cecil County election districts 1 and 2;

(e) Cecil County election district 3, precincts 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 7;

(f) Cecil County election district 4, precinct 2;

(g) Cecil County election district 5, precincts 3 and 6;

(h) that part of Cecil County election district 3, precinct 6 that consists of census tract 305.01, blocks 1000 through 1003, 1007 through 1015, 1017 through 1023, 2003 through 2015, and 2025;

(i) that part of Cecil County election district 4, precinct 1 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 305.01, blocks 2000 through 2002;

(ii) census tract 306.01, blocks 1011, 1012, 1014, 2000 through 2002, 2005 through 2007, 2009, 2011 through 2022, 3000 through 3008, and 3011 through 3013; and

(iii) census tract 306.02, blocks 1000 through 1022; and

(j) that part of Cecil County election district 5, precinct 1 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 305.03, block 3019;

(ii) census tract 309.03, blocks 2003 through 2005, 2028 through 2030, 3009, and 3010; and

(iii) census tract 309.08, blocks 1006, 1008, and 1010 through 1013;

(37) legislative district 37 consists of:

(a) delegate district 37A (single member delegate district):

(i) Dorchester County election district 1, precinct 2;

(ii) Dorchester County election district 2, precincts 2 and 4;

(iii) Dorchester County election district 3, precinct 2;

(iv) Dorchester County election district 7, precincts 2, 5, 9, and 10;

(v) Dorchester County election district 12, precinct 2;

(vi) Dorchester County election district 13, precinct 2;

(vii) Dorchester County election district 14, precincts 2 and 4;

(viii) Dorchester County election district 15, precinct 3;

(ix) Dorchester County election district 17, precinct 1;

(x) that part of Dorchester County election district 2, precinct 1 that consists of census tract 9703.00, blocks 1006, 1007, 1010 through 1013, 1017, and 1019 through 1021;

(xi) that part of Dorchester County election district 3, precinct 1 that consists of census tract 9701.00, block 1078;

(xii) that part of Dorchester County election district 7, precinct 3 that consists of census tract 9706.00, block 3010;

(xiii) that part of Dorchester County election district 7, precinct 4 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 9704.00, blocks 2042 and 2044 through 2046;

2. census tract 9706.00, blocks 1008, 1044 through 1046, 1048 through 1055, 1057, and 2014; and

3. census tract 9707.02, blocks 1019 through 1022, 1029 through 1034, 1036, 1040, 1041, 1044, 1046, 1047, 2029, 2030, and 2035;

(xiv) that part of Dorchester County election district 7, precinct 7 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 9704.00, blocks 3013 and 4010;

2. census tract 9705.00, blocks 2007 through 2010, 2014, and 2015; and

3. census tract 9706.00, block 3008;

(xv) that part of Dorchester County election district 7, precinct 8 that consists of census tract 9707.02, blocks 1017, 1037, and 1038;

(xvi) that part of Dorchester County election district 13, precinct 1 that consists of census tract 9709.00, blocks 1031, 1032, and 1168;

(xvii) that part of Dorchester County election district 14, precinct 1 that consists of census tract 9703.00, block 2043;

(xviii) that part of Dorchester County election district 14, precinct 3 that consists of census tract 9707.02, blocks 1012 through 1016 and 1027;

(xix) that part of Dorchester County election district 15, precinct 1 that consists of census tract 9702.00, blocks 2040, 2047, 2061 through 2063, 2067 through 2077, 3009 through 3011, 3014, 3015, 3017 through 3021, 3023, 3024, and 3028;

(xx) that part of Dorchester County election district 17, precinct 2 that consists of census tract 9709.00, blocks 1101, 1104, 1105, 1170, and 1171;

(xxi) Wicomico County election district 1, precincts 1 and 2;

(xxii) Wicomico County election district 5, precinct 1;

(xxiii) Wicomico County election district 9, precincts 1, 2, 3, 5, and 91;

(xxiv) Wicomico County election district 10, precinct 1;

(xxv) Wicomico County election district 13, precincts 1 and 2;

(xxvi) Wicomico County election district 15, precincts 1 and 2;

(xxvii) that part of Wicomico County election district 1, precinct 3 that consists of census tract 107.01, blocks 2023, 2055, 2071, 2072, 2078 through 2083, 3005 through 3016, 3042 through 3047, 3050 through 3052, 3054, 3055, 3058, 3070, 3080, and 3082;

(xxviii) that part of Wicomico County election district 5, precinct 2 that consists of census tract 101.01, blocks 1001 through 1004;

(xxix) that part of Wicomico County election district 10, precinct 2 that consists of census tract 107.01, blocks 1013, 1015, 1042, 1045, 1052, 2001, 2009, 2012, 2016, and 2035;

(xxx) that part of Wicomico County election district 10, precinct 3 that consists of census tract 107.01, blocks 1016 and 1043;

(xxxi) that part of Wicomico County election district 11, precinct 2 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 107.03, block 1012; and

2. census tract 107.04, blocks 3015 and 3021;

(xxxii) that part of Wicomico County election district 11, precinct 3 that consists of census tract 107.04, blocks 3016, 3017, 3019, 3020, and 3022; and

(xxxiii) that part of Wicomico County election district 11, precinct 4 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 107.03, blocks 1009 through 1011; and

2. census tract 107.04, blocks 3000, 3001, and 3010 through 3014; and

(b) delegate district 37B (two member delegate district):

(i) Talbot County;

(ii) Caroline County election districts 3, 4, 5, 6, and 8;

(iii) Dorchester County election districts 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11, 16, and 18;

(iv) Dorchester County election district 1, precinct 1;

(v) Dorchester County election district 2, precinct 3;

(vi) Dorchester County election district 7, precincts 1, 6, and 11;

(vii) Dorchester County election district 12, precinct 1;

(viii) Dorchester County election district 15, precinct 2;

(ix) that part of Dorchester County election district 2, precinct 1 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 9702.00, blocks 2058 and 2060; and

2. census tract 9703.00, blocks 1003, 1005, 1014, 1033, 1037, 1041, 1042, 1051, 3000 through 3032, and 3035;

(x) that part of Dorchester County election district 3, precinct 1 that consists of census tract 9701.00, blocks 1029 through 1033, 1037, 1054 through 1057, 1066 through 1076, 1079 through 1081, 1083 through 1087, and 2101;

(xi) that part of Dorchester County election district 7, precinct 3 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 9705.00, block 2005;

2. census tract 9706.00, blocks 1056, 1058, 2015, 3007, 3012, and 3014;

3. census tract 9707.02, blocks 1035, 1042, 1043, 1048, 2000 through 2017, 2020 through 2028, 2031 through 2034, 2036, 2037, 3061, and 3062;

4. census tract 9708.04, blocks 2000 and 2001; and

5. census tract 9709.00, block 1039;

(xii) that part of Dorchester County election district 7, precinct 4 that consists of census tract 9707.02, block 1045;

(xiii) that part of Dorchester County election district 7, precinct 7 that consists of census tract 9707.02, block 2019;

(xiv) that part of Dorchester County election district 7, precinct 8 that consists of census tract 9707.02, blocks 1018 and 1023;

(xv) that part of Dorchester County election district 13, precinct 1 that consists of census tract 9709.00, blocks 1030, 1033, 1034, 1040 through 1048, 1051 through 1062, 1065, 1160 through 1162, 2000 through 2039, 2104, 2107 through 2109, 2128, 2147, 2148, and 2257;

(xvi) that part of Dorchester County election district 14, precinct 1 that consists of census tract 9703.00, blocks 2000 through 2009, 2014 through 2028, 2030 through 2041, 2044, 2046, 2047, 2054, 2055, 3039, and 4000 through 4011;

(xvii) that part of Dorchester County election district 14, precinct 3 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 9703.00, blocks 2042, 2056 through 2060, and 4012 through 4019;

2. census tract 9704.00, blocks 1000 and 1023; and

3. census tract 9707.02, blocks 1000 through 1011, 1024 through 1026, and 1039;

(xviii) that part of Dorchester County election district 15, precinct 1 that consists of census tract 9702.00, blocks 2000 through 2003, 2005 through 2007, 2010 through 2029, 2035 through 2039, 2042, 2043, 2048, 2051 through 2057, 2059, 2064, 2065, 3027, 3029 through 3033, 4022, 4023, 4028, 4031, 4035 through 4037, 4042, 4044, 4045, and 4049;

(xix) that part of Dorchester County election district 17, precinct 2 that consists of census tract 9709.00, blocks 1017, 1022, 1102, and 1103;

(xx) Wicomico County election districts 2, 7, and 17;

(xxi) Wicomico County election district 8, precinct 3;

(xxii) Wicomico County election district 9, precinct 6;

(xxiii) Wicomico County election district 15, precinct 3;

(xxiv) Wicomico County election district 16, precincts 1 and 2;

(xxv) that part of Wicomico County election district 1, precinct 3 that consists of census tract 107.01, blocks 2024 through 2030, 2050, 3017 through 3041, 3061, 3063 through 3069, 3071 through 3079, 3083, and 3084;

(xxvi) that part of Wicomico County election district 8, precinct 2 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 105.01, block 3033; and

2. census tract 106.05, blocks 2000, 2002 through 2004, 2012 through 2016, 2018, 2019, and 3018;

(xxvii) that part of Wicomico County election district 10, precinct 2 that consists of census tract 107.01, blocks 2002 and 2013;

(xxviii) that part of Wicomico County election district 10, precinct 3 that consists of census tract 107.01, blocks 1000 through 1012, 1014, 1017 through 1041, 1044, and 1046 through 1051;

(xxix) that part of Wicomico County election district 16, precinct 3 that consists of census tract 104.00, block 1003; and

(xxx) that part of Wicomico County election district 16, precinct 5 that consists of census tract 105.01, blocks 3030, 4018, and 4027;

(38) legislative district 38 consists of:

(a) delegate district 38A (single member delegate district):

(i) Somerset County;

(ii) Wicomico County election district 8, precinct 1;

(iii) that part of Wicomico County election district 8, precinct 2 that consists of census tract 106.05, blocks 3000 through 3017 and 3019 through 3027;

(iv) Worcester County election district 1;

(v) Worcester County election district 2, precincts 1, 2, 3, and 5;

(vi) Worcester County election district 3, precinct 3;

(vii) Worcester County election district 4, precincts 1 and 2;

(viii) that part of Worcester County election district 3, precinct 1 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 9509.00, blocks 1004, 1013, 1014, 2039, 2045, and 2046; and

2. census tract 9510.00, block 2009; and

(ix) that part of Worcester County election district 4, precinct 3 that consists of census tract 9508.00, block 3022;

(b) delegate district 38B (single member delegate district):

(i) Wicomico County election district 5, precincts 3, 4, and 6;

(ii) Wicomico County election district 8, precincts 4 and 5;

(iii) Wicomico County election district 9, precincts 4, 7, and 8;

(iv) Wicomico County election district 11, precinct 1;

(v) Wicomico County election district 13, precincts 3 and 4;

(vi) Wicomico County election district 16, precincts 4 and 6;

(vii) that part of Wicomico County election district 5, precinct 2 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 1.00, blocks 3000 through 3002, 3004, 3008, 3011, 3013 through 3015, 4000, and 4001; and

2. census tract 101.01, blocks 1000, 1005 through 1011, 1016, 1017, 3017, and 5008;

(viii) that part of Wicomico County election district 5, precinct 5 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 101.01, blocks 2000, 2002, 2007, 2008, 2011, 2035 through 2037, and 2043 through 2046; and

2. census tract 106.03, blocks 1001 through 1035, 1038 through 1040, 1042 through 1046, 2019, 2020, 2023 through 2044, 3006 through 3011, 3014, 3021, 3022, and 3031 through 3033;

(ix) that part of Wicomico County election district 5, precinct 8 that consists of census tract 106.03, blocks 1041 and 4016;

(x) that part of Wicomico County election district 11, precinct 2 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 107.03, blocks 3041, 3042, 3059, and 3060; and

2. census tract 107.04, blocks 3023 through 3025, 3034 through 3039, and 3041;

(xi) that part of Wicomico County election district 11, precinct 3 that consists of census tract 107.03, blocks 3026, 3032 through 3034, 3040, and 3058;

(xii) that part of Wicomico County election district 11, precinct 4 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 106.03, blocks 2000 through 2018, 2021, and 2022; and

2. census tract 107.03, blocks 1000 through 1008, 1013 through 1058, 2000 through 2032, 3000 through 3025, 3027 through 3031, 3035 through 3039, and 3061;

(xiii) that part of Wicomico County election district 16, precinct 3 that consists of census tract 104.00, blocks 1000 through 1002, 1009 through 1016, 1018 through 1021, 3000 through 3009, 3024 through 3026, 3030, 4012, 4014, and 4015; and

(xiv) that part of Wicomico County election district 16, precinct 5 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 104.00, blocks 3016, 3020, and 3031; and

2. census tract 105.01, blocks 2000 through 2017, 3010 through 3015, 3025 through 3029, 4000 through 4017, 4021, and 4035; and

(i) Wicomico County election districts 4, 6, and 14;

(ii) Wicomico County election district 5, precincts 7 and 9;

(iii) that part of Wicomico County election district 5, precinct 5 that consists of census tract 106.03, blocks 1000, 1036, 1037, 3002 through 3005, 3012, 3013, 3015 through 3020, 3023, 3026 through 3029, and 3034 through 3036;

(iv) that part of Wicomico County election district 5, precinct 8 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 106.03, blocks 3037 through 3040, 4000 through 4015, and 4017 through 4023; and

2. census tract 106.06, blocks 1006 and 1007;

(v) Worcester County election districts 5, 6, and 7;

(vi) Worcester County election district 2, precinct 4;

(vii) Worcester County election district 3, precinct 2;

(viii) Worcester County election district 4, precinct 4;

(ix) that part of Worcester County election district 3, precinct 1 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 9504.00, blocks 2001 through 2009, 2011, 2013 through 2023, and 3001 through 3027;

2. census tract 9509.00, blocks 1000, 1001, 1003, 1006, 1075, 2040, 2047, and 2048;

3. census tract 9510.00, blocks 2010 and 2011; and

4. census tract 9517.00, blocks 1028, 2000 through 2016, 4001 through 4013, 4020 through 4022, and 4027 through 4029; and

(x) that part of Worcester County election district 4, precinct 3 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 9508.00, blocks 3000 through 3021, 3024 through 3032, 3048, 3049, and 3052 through 3056; and

2. census tract 9512.00, blocks 1000 through 1006, 1039, and 2000;

(39) legislative district 39 consists of:

(a) Montgomery County election district 1, precincts 3, 4, and 6;

(b) Montgomery County election district 2, precinct 1;

(d) Montgomery County election district 9, precincts 5, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 18, 20, 21, 22, 25, 26, 29, 30, 32, 34, 38, and 41;

(e) that part of Montgomery County election district 2, precinct 6 that consists of census tract 7002.10, blocks 1000 through 1021, 1025, 2000 through 2023, 3018 through 3020, 3023 through 3027, and 3030 through 3044;

(f) that part of Montgomery County election district 2, precinct 8 that consists of census tract 7003.16, block 1012;

(g) that part of Montgomery County election district 6, precinct 3 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 7006.04, blocks 3000 through 3010;

(ii) census tract 7006.10, blocks 1000 through 1004, 1006, 1008 through 1018, 1022, 1026 through 1034, and 1037; and

(iii) census tract 7006.14, block 3012;

(h) that part of Montgomery County election district 9, precinct 15 that consists of census tract 7007.33, block 3007;

(i) that part of Montgomery County election district 9, precinct 24 that consists of census tract 7007.06, blocks 1000 through 1006, 2003, 3000 through 3020, and 3022 through 3024; and

(j) that part of Montgomery County election district 9, precinct 37 that consists of census tract 7007.30, block 1005;

(40) legislative district 40 consists of:

(a) Baltimore City wards 14, 17, 18, and 19;

(b) Baltimore City ward 4, precinct 3;

(d) Baltimore City ward 12, precinct 13;

(e) Baltimore City ward 13, precincts 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, and 13;

(f) Baltimore City ward 15, precincts 4, 5, 6, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, and 25;

(g) Baltimore City ward 16, precincts 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, and 12;

(h) Baltimore City ward 20, precincts 1, 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, and 12;

(i) Baltimore City ward 21, precincts 2 and 3;

(j) Baltimore City ward 25, precinct 4;

(k) Baltimore City ward 27, precincts 53 and 54;

(l) that part of Baltimore City ward 4, precinct 2 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 401.00, blocks 1001 through 1012, 2002 through 2007, 2011, 4000 through 4003, 4006, 4007, and 4009 through 4032;

(ii) census tract 402.00, blocks 1004, 1005, 1007, 1016 through 1019, and 1023 through 1036;

(iii) census tract 1803.00, blocks 1000 and 2000; and

(iv) census tract 2806.00, block 2015;

(m) that part of Baltimore City ward 11, precinct 1 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 1001.00, blocks 2007, 2008, and 2022;

(ii) census tract 1101.00, blocks 2000, 2001, 2004 through 2013, and 3000 through 3003; and

(iii) census tract 1102.00, blocks 3000, 3001, and 4012 through 4016;

(n) that part of Baltimore City ward 11, precinct 2 that consists of census tract 1102.00, blocks 3002 through 3009, 4004, 4005, 4008, 4009, 4017 through 4019, 4023, 6000, 6001, 6003, and 6004;

(o) that part of Baltimore City ward 11, precinct 6 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 1102.00, blocks 2003 and 2004; and

(ii) census tract 1701.00, blocks 1002, 1003, 1011, 1012, 1017, and 1018;

(p) that part of Baltimore City ward 12, precinct 9 that consists of census tract 1207.00, blocks 1003, 1009, 2004 through 2006, 3009, 3012, and 3013;

(q) that part of Baltimore City ward 12, precinct 11 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 1204.00, blocks 1008 through 1010, 1019, 2012, and 2013; and

(ii) census tract 1206.00, blocks 3008 through 3015 and 3020 through 3023;

(r) that part of Baltimore City ward 12, precinct 12 that consists of census tract 1205.00, blocks 1003 through 1011, 1013 through 1016, and 1023;

(s) that part of Baltimore City ward 13, precinct 1 that consists of census tract 1307.00, blocks 2001, 2003 through 2005, and 6000;

(t) that part of Baltimore City ward 15, precinct 3 that consists of census tract 1511.00, blocks 1000, 2000, 2005 through 2007, 2016, 2017, 6001, and 6004;

(u) that part of Baltimore City ward 20, precinct 5 that consists of census tract 2006.00, blocks 1000 through 1004, 1006, 1008 through 1010, 2000, 2001, 2004, 2006, and 3000 through 3015;

(v) that part of Baltimore City ward 21, precinct 4 that consists of census tract 2101.00, blocks 1012 through 1014;

(w) that part of Baltimore City ward 25, precinct 3 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 2501.03, blocks 1007, 1008, 1012 through 1017, and 2000 through 2027; and

(ii) census tract 2502.06, blocks 1010 through 1013, 3000 through 3004, 3014, and 3015;

(x) that part of Baltimore City ward 27, precinct 52 that consists of census tract 2716.00, blocks 1009, 1012, 5002, and 5003; and

(y) that part of Baltimore City ward 27, precinct 55 that consists of census tract 2718.02, blocks 2014 through 2016, 2018 through 2020, 2025, and 2026;

(41) legislative district 41 consists of:

(a) Baltimore City ward 28;

(b) Baltimore City ward 15, precincts 1, 2, 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11;

(d) Baltimore City ward 20, precincts 6, 7, and 8;

(e) Baltimore City ward 25, precincts 1, 2, 17, and 18;

(f) Baltimore City ward 27, precincts 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, and 67;

(g) that part of Baltimore City ward 13, precinct 1 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 1307.00, blocks 1000, 1001, and 2000; and

(ii) census tract 2714.00, blocks 3018 through 3023;

(h) that part of Baltimore City ward 15, precinct 3 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 1510.00, blocks 1004 through 1008, 3000, and 3001; and

(ii) census tract 1511.00, blocks 1001 through 1009, 2001 through 2004, 2018 through 2020, 5000 through 5006, 6000, 6008, and 6009;

(i) that part of Baltimore City ward 20, precinct 5 that consists of census tract 2006.00, blocks 1005 and 1007;

(j) that part of Baltimore City ward 25, precinct 3 that consists of census tract 2501.03, blocks 1005, 1006, 1009 through 1011, and 3000 through 3014;

(k) that part of Baltimore City ward 27, precinct 40 that consists of census tract 2712.00, blocks 2005, 2012, 2016, 4000 through 4009, 4017 through 4033, and 5010 through 5029;

(l) that part of Baltimore City ward 27, precinct 41 that consists of census tract 2712.00, blocks 2004, 5000 through 5009, 6000 through 6003, 6006 through 6009, and 6016 through 6018;

(m) that part of Baltimore City ward 27, precinct 52 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 2716.00, blocks 1000 through 1003, 1010, 1011, 5000, 5001, 6000 through 6002, and 6005; and

(ii) census tract 2717.00, blocks 1002, 3000 through 3016, 4000 through 4019, 5012 through 5016, 6005, and 6006; and

(n) that part of Baltimore City ward 27, precinct 55 that consists of census tract 2718.02, blocks 1008, 1009, 2009, 2010, 2012, 2013, and 2021 through 2024;

(42) legislative district 42 consists of:

(a) delegate district 42A (single member delegate district):

(i) Baltimore County election districts 5, 6, 7, and 10;

(ii) Baltimore County election district 8, precinct 25;

(iii) Baltimore County election district 11, precinct 1;

(iv) that part of Baltimore County election district 4, precinct 9 that consists of census tract 4046.00, blocks 1000 through 1002, 1005, and 1011;

(v) that part of Baltimore County election district 8, precinct 1 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 4081.00, blocks 1000 through 1017 and 3001 through 3013;

2. census tract 4082.00, blocks 1018 and 2000 through 2017; and

3. census tract 4084.00, blocks 1000 through 1002, 1004, 1005, and 1059 through 1062;

(vi) that part of Baltimore County election district 8, precinct 4 that consists of census tract 4085.02, blocks 2000 and 2003;

(vii) that part of Baltimore County election district 8, precinct 5 that consists of census tract 4085.02, blocks 3000 through 3002, 3006, 3008, 3009, and 3016;

(viii) that part of Baltimore County election district 8, precinct 22 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 4081.00, blocks 3014, 3015, and 3022 through 3029; and

2. census tract 4089.00, block 2006;

(ix) that part of Baltimore County election district 8, precinct 27 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 4082.00, blocks 1000 through 1005, 1008 through 1012, and 1016; and

2. census tract 4083.04, blocks 1001 and 1002;

(x) that part of Baltimore County election district 9, precinct 8 that consists of census tract 4901.00, blocks 2000 and 2001; and

(xi) that part of Baltimore County election district 11, precinct 23 that consists of census tract 4112.02, blocks 1006, 1010 through 1014, and 2008;

(b) delegate district 42B (single member delegate district):

(i) Baltimore County election district 8, precincts 6, 12, 13, and 15;

(ii) Baltimore County election district 9, precinct 27;

(iii) that part of Baltimore County election district 8, precinct 3 that consists of census tract 4089.00, blocks 1000, 1001, 1003, 1004, 2000 through 2002, 2007, and 2008;

(iv) that part of Baltimore County election district 8, precinct 4 that consists of census tract 4085.02, blocks 1000 through 1016, 2001, 2002, and 2004 through 2006;

(v) that part of Baltimore County election district 8, precinct 5 that consists of census tract 4085.02, blocks 3003 through 3005, 3007, 3010, 3015, and 3028;

(vi) that part of Baltimore County election district 8, precinct 7 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 4085.03, blocks 1000, 1004, 1009, 2014, and 2015;

2. census tract 4085.06, blocks 1000, 1001, and 1006 through 1013; and

3. census tract 4085.07, blocks 2001, 2006, and 2007;

(vii) that part of Baltimore County election district 8, precinct 11 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 4085.03, blocks 2000 through 2003, 2010 through 2013, 2016, and 2017;

2. census tract 4085.05, blocks 1019, 2000, 2002 through 2004, 2019, and 2020; and

3. census tract 4085.07, block 1009;

(viii) that part of Baltimore County election district 8, precinct 14 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 4085.02, blocks 3022 through 3027; and

2. census tract 4086.01, blocks 2006 through 2011 and 3012 through 3016;

(ix) that part of Baltimore County election district 8, precinct 22 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 4081.00, blocks 3016 through 3021; and

2. census tract 4089.00, blocks 2003 through 2005;

(x) that part of Baltimore County election district 9, precinct 1 that consists of census tract 4905.00, blocks 1008, 1009, 2004, and 2007;

(xi) that part of Baltimore County election district 9, precinct 2 that consists of census tract 4905.00, blocks 1000 through 1005, 1007, 2005, and 2008;

(xii) that part of Baltimore County election district 9, precinct 5 that consists of census tract 4907.01, blocks 1002 through 1006 and 1011;

(xiii) that part of Baltimore County election district 9, precinct 6 that consists of census tract 4903.03, blocks 1000 through 1005 and 2000 through 2009;

(xiv) that part of Baltimore County election district 9, precinct 7 that consists of census tract 4902.00, blocks 1000 through 1015, 2000 through 2003, 2006 through 2011, 3005, 3007, and 3008;

(xv) that part of Baltimore County election district 9, precinct 8 that consists of census tract 4901.00, blocks 2002 through 2012 and 3000 through 3019;

(xvi) that part of Baltimore County election district 9, precinct 9 that consists of census tract 4901.00, blocks 1004, 1005, 1009 through 1011, and 3020 through 3024;

(xvii) that part of Baltimore County election district 9, precinct 10 that consists of census tract 4903.04, blocks 1000 through 1006 and 3000 through 3004; and

(xviii) that part of Baltimore County election district 9, precinct 26 that consists of census tract 4917.01, blocks 3003 and 3004; and

(i) Carroll County election district 8;

(ii) Carroll County election district 4, precincts 1 and 3;

(iii) that part of Carroll County election district 3, precinct 1 that consists of census tract 5030.00, blocks 2014, 2016, 4014, 4019, and 4021 through 4023;

(iv) that part of Carroll County election district 6, precinct 1 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 5061.01, blocks 1016 through 1020, 3007, 3028, and 3029;

2. census tract 5061.02, blocks 1000 and 1013 through 1015; and

3. census tract 5062.00, blocks 1020 through 1022, 1026, 2000 through 2002, 2008, and 2010 through 2026;

(v) that part of Carroll County election district 6, precinct 2 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 5061.02, blocks 1001 through 1012, 1016, 1017, 2016, 2020 through 2022, and 2024 through 2027; and

2. census tract 5062.00, blocks 3000 through 3003, 3010 through 3018, and 4000 through 4033;

(vi) that part of Carroll County election district 7, precinct 2 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 5076.01, blocks 1015 through 1018, 1021, 2003 through 2006, 2010, 2013 through 2017, 2020 through 2022, 2025, and 2027; and

2. census tract 5076.02, blocks 3000 through 3015; and

(vii) that part of Carroll County election district 7, precinct 4 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 5075.00, blocks 1000 through 1003, 1005 through 1007, 1010, 1011, 2004 through 2006, and 2008 through 2013;

2. census tract 5076.01, blocks 1000 through 1007, 1010 through 1012, 1019, 1020, 2000 through 2002, 2007 through 2009, and 2012; and

3. census tract 5077.04, blocks 1000, 1003, and 1004;

(43) legislative district 43 consists of:

(a) delegate district 43A (two member delegate district):

(i) Baltimore City ward 9, precincts 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 9, 10, and 11;

(ii) Baltimore City ward 12, precincts 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 10;

(iii) Baltimore City ward 27, precincts 20, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, and 39;

(iv) that part of Baltimore City ward 9, precinct 7 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 902.00, blocks 1000 through 1002, 1016, 1024, and 1025;

2. census tract 906.00, blocks 2001 through 2004, 2007 through 2009, 2014, and 3002; and

3. census tract 2702.00, block 2009;

(v) that part of Baltimore City ward 9, precinct 8 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 906.00, blocks 3007 and 3012; and

2. census tract 907.00, blocks 1000 through 1005, 1010, and 1012;

(vi) that part of Baltimore City ward 9, precinct 12 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 907.00, blocks 2000 through 2003 and 4000 through 4005; and

2. census tract 908.00, block 3002;

(vii) that part of Baltimore City ward 9, precinct 14 that consists of census tract 908.00, blocks 1000 through 1019, 2000, 2001, 2009, 2023, 2024, 3009 through 3011, 3022 through 3024, and 3026 through 3028;

(viii) that part of Baltimore City ward 12, precinct 9 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 1206.00, blocks 1003 through 1006, 2004 through 2007, 2013, 2017, 2018, and 3004 through 3007; and

2. census tract 1207.00, blocks 2007 through 2014, 3000 through 3008, 3014, 3015, 3024 through 3027, and 3029 through 3031;

(ix) that part of Baltimore City ward 12, precinct 11 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 1204.00, blocks 1001, 1004, 1005, 1013, 1014, and 1016 through 1018;

2. census tract 1206.00, blocks 3016 through 3019, 3024, and 3025; and

3. census tract 1207.00, blocks 3022, 3023, and 3028;

(x) that part of Baltimore City ward 27, precinct 13 that consists of census tract 2708.03, block 1000;

(xi) that part of Baltimore City ward 27, precinct 17 that consists of census tract 2703.01, blocks 4005 through 4007;

(xii) that part of Baltimore City ward 27, precinct 18 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 2702.00, blocks 2000 through 2007, 3001, 3002, and 3007 through 3011;

2. census tract 2703.01, blocks 3003 through 3009 and 4003;

3. census tract 2709.02, blocks 1022 through 1025; and

4. census tract 2709.03, blocks 1000, 1001, and 1014;

(xiii) that part of Baltimore City ward 27, precinct 21 that consists of census tract 2708.03, blocks 2004 through 2010 and 3000 through 3028;

(xiv) that part of Baltimore City ward 27, precinct 40 that consists of census tract 2712.00, blocks 2006, 2010, and 2013 through 2015; and

(xv) that part of Baltimore City ward 27, precinct 41 that consists of census tract 2712.00, blocks 1000 through 1013, 2000 through 2003, 2007 through 2009, 2011, 6019, and 6020; and

(b) delegate district 43B (single member delegate district):

(i) Baltimore County election district 9, precincts 4, 12, 13, 14, and 29;

(ii) that part of Baltimore County election district 9, precinct 3 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 4906.01, blocks 1000 through 1020 and 2000 through 2015;

2. census tract 4906.02, blocks 2000 through 2025; and

3. census tract 4906.03, block 2000;

(iii) that part of Baltimore County election district 9, precinct 5 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 4903.04, block 3012;

2. census tract 4907.01, blocks 1000, 1001, 1007 through 1010, and 1012 through 1014; and

3. census tract 4907.03, blocks 1000 through 1032 and 2000 through 2014;

(iv) that part of Baltimore County election district 9, precinct 6 that consists of census tract 4903.04, blocks 3008, 3010, and 3011;

(v) that part of Baltimore County election district 9, precinct 10 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 4903.02, blocks 2000 through 2011 and 3000 through 3007;

2. census tract 4903.04, blocks 1007, 2000, 2001, 3005 through 3007, and 3009; and

3. census tract 4909.00, blocks 2000, 2001, 3000 through 3002, and 3034;

(vi) that part of Baltimore County election district 9, precinct 11 that consists of census tract 4909.00, blocks 1000 through 1006, 2002 through 2006, 3003 through 3033, and 3035 through 3045;

(vii) that part of Baltimore County election district 9, precinct 15 that consists of census tract 4913.00, blocks 1004 through 1015, 2000 through 2005, and 2009 through 2012; and

(viii) that part of Baltimore County election district 9, precinct 20 that consists of census tract 4914.01, blocks 2010, 2011, 2015, 3000, 3001, and 3004 through 3007;

(44) legislative district 44 consists of:

(a) delegate district 44A (single member delegate district):

(i) Baltimore County election district 1, precincts 8, 9, and 16;

(ii) Baltimore County election district 13, precincts 1, 6, 7, 8, and 9;

(iii) that part of Baltimore County election district 1, precinct 7 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 4007.01, blocks 1003 through 1006, 2001 through 2006, and 2009 through 2022; and

2. census tract 4007.02, blocks 1004 through 1018 and 1021 through 1025;

(iv) that part of Baltimore County election district 1, precinct 10 that consists of census tract 4009.00, blocks 1006, 1008 through 1012, 1014, 1016 through 1018, 1020, and 1023 through 1025;

(v) that part of Baltimore County election district 1, precinct 15 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 4001.00, blocks 1000 through 1003, 1005, and 1006; and

2. census tract 4002.00, blocks 1007 through 1011 and 2000 through 2018; and

(vi) that part of Baltimore County election district 13, precinct 5 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 4304.00, blocks 1000 through 1010 and 1013 through 1015; and

2. census tract 4309.00, blocks 1018 and 1019; and

(b) delegate district 44B (two member delegate district):

(i) Baltimore County election district 1, precincts 1, 5, and 6;

(ii) Baltimore County election district 2, precincts 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 28, and 31;

(iii) Baltimore County election district 3, precincts 1 and 3;

(iv) Baltimore County election district 13, precinct 2;

(v) that part of Baltimore County election district 1, precinct 3 that consists of census tract 4015.04, blocks 1011, 1012, 1014 through 1018, 2000 through 2002, 2004 through 2010, 2013, 2014, 3001, and 3008;

(vi) that part of Baltimore County election district 1, precinct 4 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 4015.04, blocks 1002, 1003, 1006, 1007, 1013, and 3000; and

2. census tract 4015.05, blocks 1000 through 1009, 2000 through 2011, and 3000 through 3011;

(vii) that part of Baltimore County election district 1, precinct 7 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 4007.01, blocks 2000, 2007, and 2008; and

2. census tract 4007.02, blocks 1000 through 1003 and 1019;

(viii) that part of Baltimore County election district 1, precinct 10 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 4010.00, blocks 1002 through 1005, 1010, 1011, 1015, and 2000 through 2010; and

2. census tract 4014.00, blocks 1000 through 1003 and 1009 through 1014;

(ix) that part of Baltimore County election district 1, precinct 11 that consists of census tract 4015.03, blocks 5000 through 5015;

(x) that part of Baltimore County election district 1, precinct 12 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 4014.00, block 1004; and

2. census tract 4015.03, blocks 2000 through 2008;

(xi) that part of Baltimore County election district 1, precinct 13 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 4004.00, blocks 1002 through 1005, 1012, 3000 through 3014, and 4000 through 4005; and

2. census tract 4005.00, blocks 1000 through 1002;

(xii) that part of Baltimore County election district 1, precinct 14 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 4004.00, blocks 2007 through 2014 and 5008; and

2. census tract 4925.00, blocks 1000 through 1007;

(xiii) that part of Baltimore County election district 1, precinct 15 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 4001.00, block 1004;

2. census tract 4004.00, blocks 1000, 1001, 1006 through 1011, 1013, and 2000 through 2006; and

3. census tract 4925.00, blocks 2000 and 2001;

(xiv) that part of Baltimore County election district 2, precinct 7 that consists of census tract 4023.07, blocks 1000 through 1005, 1007, and 3000 through 3009;

(xv) that part of Baltimore County election district 2, precinct 23 that consists of census tract 4023.05, block 1002;

(xvi) that part of Baltimore County election district 3, precinct 4 that consists of census tract 4032.01, blocks 1000 and 1001;

(xvii) that part of Baltimore County election district 13, precinct 3 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 4307.00, blocks 1001 through 1013, 2000 through 2015, and 3000 through 3016; and

2. census tract 4308.00, blocks 3008 and 3009;

(xviii) that part of Baltimore County election district 13, precinct 4 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 4306.00, blocks 1002 through 1007, 1009 through 1013, 1015, 1023, 1024, and 2034; and

2. census tract 4307.00, blocks 1014, 1015, 1018, 1020 through 1025, and 4000 through 4007; and

(xix) that part of Baltimore County election district 13, precinct 5 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 4304.00, blocks 1011, 1012, 1028, 2000 through 2029, and 3000 through 3030;

2. census tract 4306.00, blocks 1000, 1001, 1008, and 2020 through 2033;

3. census tract 4307.00, blocks 1000, 1016, 1017, and 1019;

4. census tract 4308.00, blocks 1000, 1001, 1015 through 1019, and 3005 through 3007;

5. census tract 4309.00, block 1037; and

6. census tract 9802.00, blocks 1000 through 1009;

(45) legislative district 45 consists of:

(a) Baltimore City wards 7 and 8;

(b) Baltimore City ward 5, precinct 2;

(d) Baltimore City ward 9, precincts 13 and 15;

(e) Baltimore City ward 10, precincts 1, 2, and 4;

(f) Baltimore City ward 26, precincts 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, and 33;

(g) Baltimore City ward 27, precincts 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14, 15, 16, and 19;

(h) that part of Baltimore City ward 6, precinct 1 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 601.00, blocks 1000 through 1005 and 4000 through 4006; and

(ii) census tract 602.00, blocks 3000 through 3005 and 4000 through 4007;

(i) that part of Baltimore City ward 9, precinct 7 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 902.00, blocks 1017 through 1023 and 1026 through 1029; and

(ii) census tract 906.00, blocks 1000 through 1011, 2000, 2005, 2006, 2010 through 2013, 3000, 3001, 3003, and 3004;

(j) that part of Baltimore City ward 9, precinct 8 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 906.00, blocks 3005, 3006, 3008 through 3011, and 3013 through 3017; and

(ii) census tract 907.00, blocks 1006 through 1009 and 1011;

(k) that part of Baltimore City ward 9, precinct 12 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 907.00, blocks 2004 through 2009, 3000 through 3007, and 4006; and

(ii) census tract 908.00, blocks 3000 and 3001;

(l) that part of Baltimore City ward 9, precinct 14 that consists of census tract 908.00, blocks 2002, 2003, 2007, 2008, 2010, 2011, 2018 through 2020, 3008, 3012, and 3021;

(m) that part of Baltimore City ward 11, precinct 1 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 1101.00, blocks 2002 and 2003; and

(ii) census tract 1102.00, block 4011;

(n) that part of Baltimore City ward 11, precinct 2 that consists of census tract 1102.00, blocks 4006, 4007, and 4010;

(o) that part of Baltimore City ward 12, precinct 11 that consists of census tract 1204.00, blocks 1002, 1003, 1006, 1007, 1011, 1012, 1015, and 2014;

(p) that part of Baltimore City ward 12, precinct 12 that consists of census tract 1205.00, blocks 1000 through 1002, 1012, 1017 through 1022, 1024 through 1028, and 2000 through 2029;

(q) that part of Baltimore City ward 26, precinct 7 that consists of census tract 2604.04, blocks 1023 through 1026 and 1031 through 1033;

(r) that part of Baltimore City ward 26, precinct 11 that consists of census tract 2604.04, blocks 1000 through 1022, 1029, 2000 through 2007, 2012, 2021, and 2029;

(s) that part of Baltimore City ward 27, precinct 13 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 2707.01, blocks 1000 through 1009 and 2000 through 2002; and

(ii) census tract 2707.03, blocks 2000 through 2013 and 3000 through 3018;

(t) that part of Baltimore City ward 27, precinct 17 that consists of census tract 2703.01, blocks 1007 through 1010, 2000, 2001, 2003, 4001, 4002, 4004, and 4008 through 4018;

(u) that part of Baltimore City ward 27, precinct 18 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 2702.00, blocks 3000 and 3003 through 3006; and

(ii) census tract 2703.01, blocks 2002, 2004 through 2012, 3000 through 3002, and 3010 through 3017; and

(v) that part of Baltimore City ward 27, precinct 21 that consists of census tract 2708.03, blocks 1013 through 1018 and 1023 through 1025;

(46) legislative district 46 consists of:

(a) Baltimore City wards 1, 2, 3, 22, 23, and 24;

(b) Baltimore City ward 4, precinct 1;

(d) Baltimore City ward 6, precincts 4 and 5;

(e) Baltimore City ward 10, precinct 3;

(f) Baltimore City ward 11, precinct 7;

(g) Baltimore City ward 21, precincts 1 and 5;

(h) Baltimore City ward 25, precincts 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16;

(i) Baltimore City ward 26, precincts 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, and 12;

(j) that part of Baltimore City ward 4, precinct 2 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 401.00, blocks 1000, 3017 through 3024, and 3044 through 3046; and

(ii) census tract 1101.00, blocks 1018, 1019, and 1021;

(k) that part of Baltimore City ward 6, precinct 1 that consists of census tract 601.00, blocks 1006 and 1007;

(l) that part of Baltimore City ward 11, precinct 6 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 1003.00, blocks 1006 and 1007;

(ii) census tract 1101.00, blocks 1002, 1009 through 1017, and 1020;

(iii) census tract 1102.00, blocks 1000 through 1009, 2000 through 2002, 2005, 2006, 5004 through 5011, and 6009 through 6012; and

(iv) census tract 2805.00, blocks 2007 through 2010;

(m) that part of Baltimore City ward 21, precinct 4 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 2101.00, blocks 1003 through 1011, 1015 through 1028, 1030 through 1038, and 1043;

(ii) census tract 2102.00, blocks 1027 and 1030 through 1035; and

(iii) census tract 2503.01, blocks 1003, 1007, 1008, 1035, and 2000 through 2002;

(n) that part of Baltimore City ward 26, precinct 7 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 2604.04, blocks 1027, 1028, and 1030;

(ii) census tract 2605.01, blocks 1025 through 1029 and 2022; and

(iii) census tract 2607.00, blocks 1000, 1001, 1008 through 1016, 1018, 1019, 1022 through 1025, 1028, 1029, 1031, 2000 through 2009, and 2012 through 2014; and

(o) that part of Baltimore City ward 26, precinct 11 that consists of the following:

(i) census tract 2604.04, blocks 2008 through 2011, 2019, 2020, 3000, 3006, and 3007;

(ii) census tract 2607.00, blocks 1002 through 1007;

(iii) census tract 2608.00, blocks 1000, 1001, 1004 through 1017, 1019, 1020, 2000, 2001, 2004 through 2007, and 2010 through 2016; and

(iv) census tract 2609.00, blocks 1000 through 1003 and 1008; and

(47) legislative district 47 consists of:

(a) delegate district 47A (two member delegate district):

(i) Prince George’s County election district 2, precincts 1, 2, 3, 4, 7, 8, and 9;

(ii) Prince George’s County election district 13, precincts 2, 17, and 22;

(iii) Prince George’s County election district 16, precincts 98 and 99;

(iv) Prince George’s County election district 17, precincts 1, 2, 4, 6, 7, and 11;

(v) Prince George’s County election district 18, precincts 3, 5, 12, 14, and 99;

(vi) Prince George’s County election district 20, precinct 97;

(vii) that part of Prince George’s County election district 2, precinct 5 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 8039.00, blocks 1000 through 1003, 1006 through 1016, 2003 through 2008, 3000 through 3004, 3007 through 3013, and 3018;

2. census tract 8040.01, blocks 2004 and 2006; and

3. census tract 8040.02, blocks 1003, 1007, and 2008;

(viii) that part of Prince George’s County election district 13, precinct 7 that consists of census tract 8035.24, block 1000;

(ix) that part of Prince George’s County election district 13, precinct 18 that consists of census tract 8034.03, blocks 1001, 1004, 1005, and 2000 through 2006;

(x) that part of Prince George’s County election district 13, precinct 19 that consists of census tract 8033.00, blocks 1003 and 1004;

(xi) that part of Prince George’s County election district 13, precinct 25 that consists of census tract 8035.24, block 1006;

(xii) that part of Prince George’s County election district 17, precinct 5 that consists of census tract 8055.00, blocks 1017 through 1027;

(xiii) that part of Prince George’s County election district 17, precinct 10 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 8050.00, block 1000; and

2. census tract 8051.01, block 1000;

(xiv) that part of Prince George’s County election district 18, precinct 15 that consists of census tract 8030.01, block 1020;

(xv) that part of Prince George’s County election district 20, precinct 2 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 8036.02, blocks 2000 and 2001; and

2. census tract 8036.12, blocks 1000 through 1007, 1013 through 1026, and 1029;

(xvi) that part of Prince George’s County election district 20, precinct 12 that consists of census tract 8036.12, block 1008; and

(xvii) that part of Prince George’s County election district 20, precinct 13 that consists of census tract 8036.12, block 1012; and

(b) delegate district 47B (single member delegate district):

(i) Prince George’s County election district 17, precinct 3;

(ii) that part of Prince George’s County election district 16, precinct 3 that consists of census tract 8075.00, block 1002;

(iii) that part of Prince George’s County election district 17, precinct 5 that consists of census tract 8055.00, blocks 1000 through 1016 and 2001 through 2003;

(iv) that part of Prince George’s County election district 17, precinct 8 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 8059.08, blocks 1000, 1002, 1005 through 1007, 1009, 1010, and 1017 through 1019;

2. census tract 8059.09, block 2002; and

3. census tract 8060.00, blocks 1000, 1003 through 1007, 1009, 1013, 1014, and 1019;

(v) that part of Prince George’s County election district 17, precinct 10 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 8055.00, blocks 2004 through 2008;

2. census tract 8058.01, blocks 1005 through 1026 and 2000 through 2014; and

3. census tract 8058.02, blocks 1000 through 1024 and 2000 through 2013;

(vi) that part of Prince George’s County election district 17, precinct 12 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 8059.04, blocks 1000, 1005, and 1007;

2. census tract 8059.06, blocks 1000 through 1003 and 2000 through 2004; and

3. census tract 8059.07, blocks 1000 and 2000 through 2004;

(vii) that part of Prince George’s County election district 17, precinct 13 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 8055.00, block 2000; and

2. census tract 8057.00, blocks 3005 through 3007;

(viii) that part of Prince George’s County election district 17, precinct 14 that consists of census tract 8059.08, block 1015;

(ix) that part of Prince George’s County election district 21, precinct 5 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 8073.01, block 2004; and

2. census tract 8073.05, blocks 1001 through 1010, 2001, 2004 through 2012, and 2015; and

(x) that part of Prince George’s County election district 21, precinct 14 that consists of the following:

1. census tract 8073.04, blocks 1002 through 1010 and 1014 through 1020; and

2. census tract 8073.05, blocks 1000 and 2000.

§ 2-204

All provisions of this article, and all other laws or parts of laws, public general or public local, inconsistent with the provisions of this subtitle, are repealed to the extent of any such inconsistency.

§ 2-205

If any part of this subtitle, including any section or subsection or portion of it, shall be held to be unconstitutional or invalid for any reason, the unconstitutionality or invalidity may not affect the remaining parts of this subtitle. It is the intention that the remaining parts of this subtitle would have been enacted into law if that unconstitutionality or invalidity had been known. To this end, all parts of this subtitle are declared to be severable.

Subtitle 2A

§ 2-2A-01

(a) The population count used after each decennial census for the purpose of creating the legislative districting plan for the General Assembly:

(1) may not include individuals who:

(i) were incarcerated in State or federal correctional facilities, as determined by the decennial census; and

(ii) were not residents of the State before their incarceration; and

(2) shall count individuals incarcerated in the State or federal correctional facilities, as determined by the decennial census, at their last known residence before incarceration if the individuals were residents of the State.

(b) Beginning with the 2020 decennial census:

(1) on or before October 31 in the year of each decennial census, the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services shall submit to the Maryland Department of Planning and the Department of Legislative Services the following identifiable information, in electronic form, for each individual incarcerated in a State correctional facility on April 1 in the year of the decennial census:

(i) the name of the individual;

(ii) the address of the individual’s last known residence;

(iii) the individual’s race or ethnicity; and

(iv) any other information necessary to fulfill the purposes of this section; and

(2) on or before August 1 in the year of each decennial census, the Maryland Department of Planning and the Department of Legislative Services shall enter into a memorandum of understanding, the terms of which shall require the Maryland Department of Planning and the Department of Legislative Services to work collaboratively to:

(i) summarize the results of the geocoded data created by the Maryland Department of Planning as required under COMAR 35.05.01;

(ii) using the geocoded data, identify the individuals incarcerated in a State correctional facility or federal correctional facility in the State that will be included in the adjusted census data under this section;

(iii) make any necessary changes to the Maryland Department of Planning’s geocoded database;

(iv) jointly review for accuracy any changes to the census data by any software vendor or other entity; and

(v) jointly certify, on or before March 15 in the year following each decennial census, the adjusted census data to be used for redistricting under this section.

Subtitle 4

§ 2-401

In this subtitle, “Committee” means the Legislative Policy Committee.

§ 2-402

There is a Legislative Policy Committee.

§ 2-403

(a) The Legislative Policy Committee consists of the following 28 members:

(1) from the Senate:

(i) the President;

(ii) the President Pro Tem;

(iii) the Majority Leader;

(iv) the Chair of the Budget and Taxation Committee;

(v) the Chair of the Committee on Education, Energy, and the Environment;

(vi) the Chair of the Finance Committee;

(vii) the Chair of the Judicial Proceedings Committee;

(viii) the Minority Leader; and

(ix) 1. 6 other Senators, appointed by the President and approved by majority vote of the Senate; or

2. if a Senator simultaneously serves in 2 of the positions set forth in items (ii) through (vii), inclusive, of this item, 7 other Senators, appointed by the President and approved by majority vote of the Senate; and

(2) from the House:

(i) the Speaker;

(ii) the Speaker Pro Tem;

(iii) the Majority Leader;

(iv) the Chair of the Appropriations Committee;

(v) the Chair of the Health and Government Operations Committee;

(vi) the Chair of the Economic Matters Committee;

(vii) the Chair of the Environment and Transportation Committee;

(viii) the Chair of the Judiciary Committee;

(ix) the Chair of the Ways and Means Committee;

(x) the Minority Leader; and

(xi) 1. 4 other Delegates, appointed by the Speaker and approved by majority vote of the House; or

2. if a Delegate simultaneously serves in 2 of the positions set forth in items (ii) through (ix), inclusive, of this item, 5 other Delegates, appointed by the Speaker and approved by majority vote of the House.

(b) (1) As far as possible, the Senators appointed by the President, under subsection (a)(1)(ix) of this section, shall be representative of the various sections and interests of the State.

(2) As far as possible, the Delegates appointed by the Speaker, under subsection (a)(2)(xi) of this section, shall be representative of the various sections and interests of the State.

§ 2-404

The President and the Speaker are cochairs of the Committee.

§ 2-405

(a) This section applies only to a vacancy on the Committee that occurs while the General Assembly is not in session.

(b) (1) If a vacancy occurs in one of the offices of cochairs of the Committee, a successor shall be elected:

(i) for the Senate cochair, by the Senators on the Committee; and

(ii) for the House cochair, by the Delegates on the Committee.

(2) If vacancies occur in both offices of the cochairs of the Committee, the successors shall be elected from among the remaining members of the Committee by those members. One of the cochairs shall be a Senator, and one shall be a Delegate.

(2) If a vacancy occurs among the Delegates on the Committee, a successor shall be appointed by the Speaker.

§ 2-406

(a) (1) A majority of the full authorized membership of the Committee is a quorum.

(2) The Committee may not act unless at least 8 members concur.

(b) (1) The Committee shall meet as often as necessary, at the times and places that its cochairs determine.

(2) Any member of the General Assembly may attend a meeting of the Committee and present views on any matter that the Committee is considering. However, only a member of the Committee may vote in any decision of the Committee.

(3) The Committee shall keep minutes of its meetings.

§ 2-407

(a) The Committee has the following functions:

(1) to review the work of the standing committees;

(2) to collect information about the government and general welfare of the State;

(3) to study the operation of and recommend changes in the Constitution, statutes, and common law of the State;

(4) to study the rules and procedures of the Senate and the House and recommend changes that would improve and expedite the consideration of legislation by the General Assembly;

(5) to coordinate and supervise generally the work of the General Assembly when it is not in session;

(6) to prepare or endorse a legislative program that includes the bills, resolutions, or other recommendations of the Committee that are to be presented to the General Assembly at its next session;

(7) to carry out its powers and duties under the Maryland Program Evaluation Act; and

(8) at least every 2 years, to review and update as necessary the antiharassment policy and procedures of the General Assembly to create and maintain an environment in which all members and employees are treated with respect and are free from unlawful discrimination and harassment.

(b) To carry out its functions, the Committee:

(1) shall receive, from any source, suggestions for legislation or investigation;

(2) may hold a hearing on any matter;

(3) may appoint a special committee and delegate to that committee the authority specified in § 2–408 of this subtitle;

(4) may refer a matter for study and report to any of its special committees or any committee of the General Assembly;

(5) shall consider the reports of standing, statutory, and special committees;

(6) may have any bill or resolution prepared to carry out its recommendations; and

(7) when the General Assembly is not in session:

(i) may accept a gift or grant of money from a person or public agency for any purpose that relates to the activities of the Legislative Policy Committee or of any other standing, statutory, or special committee; and

(ii) may spend the money for that purpose, in accordance with the State budget.

§ 2-408

(a) In carrying out any of its functions or powers, the Committee may:

(1) issue subpoenas;

(2) compel the attendance of witnesses;

(3) compel the production of any papers, books, accounts, documents, and testimony;

(4) administer oaths; and

(5) cause the depositions of witnesses, who reside in or outside of the State, to be taken in the manner provided by law for taking depositions in a civil case.

(b) (1) If a person fails to comply with a subpoena issued under this section or fails to testify on any matter on which the person lawfully may be interrogated, on petition of a member of the Committee, a circuit court may pass an order directing compliance with the subpoena or compelling testimony and may enforce the order by proceedings for contempt.

(2) Venue and procedures for a proceeding under paragraph (1) of this subsection to direct compliance with a subpoena or compel testimony are as provided in § 2–1803 of this title.

§ 2-409

(a) Subject to § 2–1257 of this title, the Committee shall submit to the General Assembly periodic reports to keep the members of the General Assembly fully informed about matters that come before the Committee.

(b) (1) The Committee shall compile the bills, joint resolutions, and other recommendations that are submitted to it by its special committees and by the committees of the General Assembly and are intended for submission to the General Assembly at its next session.

(2) Before that session of the General Assembly, the Committee shall prepare a report that includes those bills, resolutions, and recommendations and the reports that relate to them.

(3) The Committee shall:

(i) subject to § 2–1257 of this title, submit this report to the General Assembly; and

(ii) send this report to each other elected State officer and to the Thurgood Marshall State Law Library.

§ 2-410

Within the amounts made available by appropriation, each officer and unit of the State government shall conduct any study that the Committee requests.

§ 2-411

(a) In this section, “Board” means the Information Technology Advisory Board.

(b) There is an Information Technology Advisory Board to advise the Legislative Policy Committee.

(i) enterprise information technology management experience; and

(ii) specific technology experience, including experience with artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.

(2) (i) The President of the Senate shall appoint four of the Board members.

(ii) The Speaker of the House shall appoint four of the Board members.

(3) The President and the Speaker shall jointly designate a member to serve as chair of the Board.

(d) A member of the Board:

(1) (i) may not receive compensation as a member of the Board; but

(ii) is entitled to reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations, as provided in the State budget;

(2) is subject to the Public Ethics Law; and

(3) shall disclose to the State Ethics Commission if the member:

(i) is employed by an entity that currently does business with the State that is related to the matters before the Board; or

(ii) has a financial interest in an entity that currently does business with the State that is related to the matters before the Board.

(e) The Board shall be staffed by the Department of Legislative Services.

(f) The Board shall:

(1) serve as an expert advisory entity to the General Assembly; and

(2) review any State reports or other available information regarding existing major information technology development projects, including:

(i) project management and oversight reports provided confidentially to the Department of Legislative Services;

(ii) any confidential information regarding project risks submitted to the Legislative Policy Committee;

(iii) the State modernization plan;

(iv) legacy system standards, inventory, and funding projections;

(v) State use of the information technology investment maturity model;

(vi) the State centralization strategies for:

1. information technology management; and

2. cybersecurity; and

(vii) the State artificial intelligence roadmap developed by the Governor’s artificial intelligence subcabinet.

(g) On or before December 15 each year, the Board shall submit to the Legislative Policy Committee and the Joint Committee on Cybersecurity, Information Technology, and Biotechnology, in accordance with § 2–1257 of this title, a report that:

(1) interprets and summarizes the reports and other information reviewed under subsection (f)(2) of this section;

(2) provides advice to the State based on the reports and other information reviewed; and

(3) communicates the requisite information in a clear and concise manner that, to the greatest extent possible, avoids the use of technical language or reliance on existing industry knowledge.

Subtitle 5

§ 2-501

In this subtitle, “Committee” means the Joint Committee on Administrative, Executive, and Legislative Review.

§ 2-502

There is a Joint Committee on Administrative, Executive, and Legislative Review, which is a joint committee of the Senate and the House.

§ 2-503

(a) (1) The Committee consists of 20 members.

(2) Of the 20 Committee members:

(i) 10 shall be Senators, appointed by the President with the approval of the Senate; and

(ii) 10 shall be Delegates, appointed by the Speaker with the approval of the House.

(b) (1) The Senators appointed by the President shall be chosen so that each political party is represented in approximately the same proportion as the party is represented in the Senate.

(2) The Delegates appointed by the Speaker shall be chosen so that each political party is represented in approximately the same proportion as the party is represented in the House.

(c) Members shall be appointed at the beginning of each regular session of the General Assembly and shall serve until the beginning of the following regular session.

§ 2-504

The Senate chair and the House chair of the Committee shall be appointed by the President and the Speaker, respectively, from the membership of the Committee. One shall be a Senator appointed by the President, and the other shall be a Delegate appointed by the Speaker. The presiding chairship and cochairship shall be alternated annually between the Senate and the House.

§ 2-505

(a) A majority of the full authorized membership of the Committee is a quorum.

(b) The Department of Legislative Services shall provide staff assistance to the Committee.

§ 2-506

(a) In addition to any powers set forth elsewhere, the Committee may:

(1) review proposed or adopted regulations of a unit of the Executive Branch of the State government;

(2) consider requests for emergency adoption of regulations;

(3) inquire into an alleged failure of an officer or employee of any branch of the State government to comply with the laws of the State; and

(4) review the operations of any unit of the Executive Branch of the State government.

(b) (1) At least once a year, the Committee shall submit a report to the Legislative Policy Committee and, subject to § 2–1257 of this title, to the General Assembly.

(2) The report shall:

(i) describe the studies and other work of the Committee; and

(ii) include any recommendations of the Committee on legislative action that is needed to change or reverse a regulation of a unit of the Executive Branch of the State government.

(c) The failure of the Committee to comment on or to object to a proposed or adopted regulation is not an indication that:

(1) the Committee approves the regulation;

(2) the statute under which the regulation is adopted authorizes the adoption; or

(3) the regulation conforms to the legislative intent of the statute.

§ 2-507

(a) In carrying out any of its functions or powers, the Committee may:

(1) issue subpoenas;

(2) compel the attendance of witnesses;

(3) compel the production of any papers, books, accounts, documents, and testimony;

(4) administer oaths; and

(5) cause the depositions of witnesses, who reside in or outside of the State, to be taken in the manner provided by law for taking depositions in a civil case.

(2) Venue and procedures for a proceeding under paragraph (1) of this subsection to direct compliance with a subpoena or compel testimony are as provided in § 2–1803 of this title.

Subtitle 6

§ 2-601

In this subtitle, “Committee” means the Joint Audit and Evaluation Committee.

§ 2-602

There is a Joint Audit and Evaluation Committee, which is a joint committee of the Senate and the House.

§ 2-603

(a) The Committee consists of 10 members of the Senate, appointed by the President, and 10 members of the House, appointed by the Speaker.

(b) (1) Members of the Committee shall be appointed on the basis of demonstrated ability and interest in the functions of the Committee.

(2) In making appointments from time to time, the President and the Speaker shall provide for representation from the major areas of the State.

(c) (1) Members shall be appointed after the 2 houses and their committees organize during each regular session of the General Assembly and shall serve until the houses and committees organize during the following regular session.

(2) (i) If a vacancy occurs among the Senators on the Committee, a successor promptly shall be appointed by the President.

(ii) If a vacancy occurs among the Delegates on the Committee, a successor promptly shall be appointed by the Speaker.

§ 2-604

The President and the Speaker jointly shall appoint the chair and the vice chair of the Committee.

§ 2-605

In addition to any powers and duties set forth elsewhere, the Committee shall:

(1) review audit reports issued by the Legislative Auditor and submit findings and recommendations to the General Assembly with respect to issues in audit reports;

(2) review the audit process and procedures and provide comment and recommendations to the President and the Speaker, the Executive Director of the Department of Legislative Services, and the Legislative Auditor;

(3) review performance evaluations conducted and reports issued by the Office of Program Evaluation and Government Accountability and submit findings and recommendations to the General Assembly with respect to issues raised in the performance evaluations and reports; and

(4) review the performance evaluation process and procedures and provide comment and recommendations to the President and the Speaker, the Executive Director of the Department of Legislative Services, and the Director of the Office of Program Evaluation and Government Accountability.

Subtitle 7

§ 2-701

In this subtitle, “Committee” means the Joint Committee on Legislative Ethics.

§ 2-702

There is a Joint Committee on Legislative Ethics, which is a joint committee of the Senate and the House.

§ 2-703

(a) (1) The Committee consists of the following 12 regular members:

(i) six Senators appointed by the President; and

(ii) six Delegates appointed by the Speaker.

(2) (i) The Senators appointed by the President shall be chosen so that each political party is represented in approximately the same proportion as the party is represented in the Senate. Minority party members shall be appointed upon the recommendation of the minority leader of the Senate.

(ii) The Delegates appointed by the Speaker shall be chosen so that each political party is represented in approximately the same proportion as the party is represented in the House. Minority party members shall be appointed upon the recommendation of the minority leader of the House.

(b) (1) A member appointed by the President serves at the pleasure of the President.

(2) A member appointed by the Speaker serves at the pleasure of the Speaker.

§ 2-704

(a) The President and the Speaker:

(1) jointly shall appoint a chair and a vice chair of the Committee; or

(2) each shall appoint a cochair of the Committee.

(b) Appointees serve at the pleasure of the appointing authority.

§ 2-705

The Committee shall meet at the times and places that it determines.

§ 2-706

(a) The Committee shall:

(1) perform all duties assigned to it by law or by legislative rules;

(2) from time to time, recommend to the presiding officers any changes in or amendments to the rules of legislative ethics;

(3) on request of a member of the General Assembly, issue an advisory opinion regarding the legislative ethics of an action taken or contemplated to be taken by the member;

(4) on its own motion, issue advisory opinions as it deems necessary;

(5) at the request of the President or the Speaker, make recommendations concerning matters referred to the Committee;

(6) as it deems necessary, issue guidelines and establish procedures for the implementation of the rules of legislative ethics;

(7) maintain public records as the rules require; and

(8) review complaints filed under § 5–516 of the General Provisions Article alleging violations of the antiharassment policy and procedures adopted by the Legislative Policy Committee that govern the conduct of members of the General Assembly.

(b) (1) The Committee shall maintain the statements filed by members of the General Assembly under Title 5, Subtitle 5 of the General Provisions Article and, during normal office hours, make the statements available to the public for examination and copying.

(2) The Committee shall maintain a record of:

(i) the name and home address of each individual who examines or copies a statement filed with the Committee by a member of the General Assembly; and

(ii) the name of the member whose statement was examined or copied.

(3) On the request of the member whose statement was examined or copied, the Committee shall forward to the member a copy of the record maintained by the Committee under paragraph (2)(i) of this subsection.

§ 2-707

(a) (1) The Committee may propose the adoption, amendment, or repeal of rules of legislative ethics.

(2) Changes to the rules shall be presented in the form of a joint resolution and shall become effective after adoption of the joint resolution by a constitutional majority of each house voting separately.

(3) Before presenting a change to the rules, the Committee shall conduct a public hearing.

(b) The rules may supplement but may not be inconsistent with the provisions of the Maryland Public Ethics Law that relate to members of the General Assembly.

(c) The rules are effective whether or not the General Assembly is in session and shall be binding on each member of the General Assembly.

§ 2-708

The President and the Speaker may refer to the Committee any matter that they consider appropriate.

§ 2-709

(a) The Executive Director of the Department of Legislative Services, subject to the approval of the President and Speaker, shall appoint an attorney to serve as Counsel to the Committee.

(b) The Counsel:

(1) shall devote full time to the duties of the Committee, but may not participate in any investigatory or prosecutorial function;

(2) may provide information to any person regarding laws, rules, and other standards of ethical conduct applicable to members of the General Assembly;

(3) shall carry out any duties prescribed under Title 5, Subtitle 5 of the General Provisions Article;

(4) shall meet individually with each member of the General Assembly each year to:

(i) advise the member regarding the requirements of any applicable ethics law, rule, or standard of conduct; and

(ii) assist the member in preparing statements and reports required to be filed with the Committee under Title 5, Subtitle 5, Part II of the General Provisions Article; and

(5) shall conduct seminars, workshops, and briefings for the benefit of members of the General Assembly, as directed by the Committee, the President, or the Speaker.

(1) is subject to the attorney client privilege, as set forth in § 9–108 of the Courts Article;

(2) is subject to confidentiality under § 5–517 of the General Provisions Article; and

(3) is intended as a service to the members and may not be deemed to diminish a member’s personal responsibility for adherence to applicable laws, rules, and standards of ethical conduct.

(d) The Committee shall have other staff assistance as requested by the Committee and as provided in the budget of the General Assembly.

§ 2-710

(a) In this section, “Board” means the Citizens’ Advisory Board for Legislative Ethics established under subsection (b) of this section.

(b) (1) There is a Citizens’ Advisory Board for Legislative Ethics.

(2) The Board consists of the following members:

(i) a member of the public who shall serve as the chair, appointed jointly by the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House;

(ii) two members of the public, appointed by the President of the Senate; and

(iii) two members of the public, appointed by the Speaker of the House.

(3) (i) A member of the Board:

1. shall be a resident of the State;

2. may not be a State or local elected official; and

3. may not be a regulated lobbyist.

(ii) No more than two members of the Board at any one time may be former members of the General Assembly.

(iii) The members of the Board shall be chosen so that each political party is represented in approximately the same proportion as the party is represented in the General Assembly.

(iv) In appointing members of the Board, the presiding officers shall seek individuals with a knowledge of or background in public ethics.

(4) (i) The term of a member of the Board is 2 years and begins on January 1 of each even–numbered year.

(ii) At the end of a term, a member continues to serve until a successor is appointed and qualifies.

(iii) A member who is appointed after a term has begun serves only for the rest of the term and until a successor is appointed and qualifies.

(5) With the consent of the Legislative Policy Committee, the President and Speaker may remove a member for incompetence or misconduct.

(c) The Board shall regularly offer recommendations to the Committee and the presiding officers regarding changes to the Public Ethics Law, the policies and procedures of the Committee, and public advisory opinions of the Committee.

Subtitle 8

§ 2-801

In this subtitle, “Committee” means the Joint Committee on the Management of Public Funds.

§ 2-802

There is a Joint Committee on the Management of Public Funds, which is a joint committee of the Senate and the House.

§ 2-803

(a) (1) The Committee consists of 8 members.

(2) Of the 8 members:

(i) 4 shall be Senators, appointed by the President; and

(ii) 4 shall be Delegates, appointed by the Speaker.

(b) (1) A member appointed by the President serves at the pleasure of the President.

(2) A member appointed by the Speaker serves at the pleasure of the Speaker.

§ 2-804

The President and the Speaker jointly shall appoint the chair and the vice chair of the Committee.

§ 2-805

(a) A majority of the full authorized membership of the Committee is a quorum.

(b) The Committee shall meet:

(1) at the times and places that it determines; and

(2) at the call of its chair or, if the chair is absent, at the call of its vice chair.

§ 2-806

(a) The Committee has the function to review the investment and management policies and procedures:

(1) of the Treasurer with respect to State funds in the State Treasury;

(2) of any officer or unit with respect to State funds that are not in the State Treasury and are not under the jurisdiction of a retirement system; and

(3) of local governments with respect to public funds.

(b) Subject to § 2-1257 of this title, on or before the 1st day of each regular session, the Committee shall submit an annual report to the General Assembly on any recommendations as to the office of Treasurer.

(c) The function and authority of the Treasurer as a member of the Board of Public Works are not subject to the review of the Committee.

§ 2-807

(a) In carrying out any of its functions or powers, the Committee may:

(1) issue subpoenas;

(2) compel the attendance of witnesses;

(3) compel the production of any papers, books, accounts, documents, and testimony;

(4) administer oaths; and

(5) cause the depositions of witnesses, who reside in or outside of the State, to be taken in the manner provided by law for taking depositions in a civil case.

(2) Venue and procedures for a proceeding under paragraph (1) of this subsection to direct compliance with a subpoena or compel testimony are as provided in § 2–1803 of this title.

Subtitle 9

§ 2-901

In this subtitle, “Committee” means the Joint Committee on Federal Relations.

§ 2-902

There is a Joint Committee on Federal Relations, which is a joint committee of the Senate and the House.

§ 2-903

(a) The Committee consists of 16 members.

(b) Of the 16 Committee members:

(1) 8 shall be Senators, appointed by the President; and

(2) 8 shall be Delegates, appointed by the Speaker.

§ 2-904

(a) The President and the Speaker jointly shall appoint a chair and a vice chair of the Committee.

(b) (1) The President shall appoint a chair of the Senate members of the Committee.

(2) The Speaker shall appoint a chair of the House members of the Committee.

§ 2-905

The Department of Legislative Services shall provide staff assistance to the Committee.

§ 2-906

(a) The Committee shall:

(1) as to the relations between the State and the federal government:

(i) monitor and evaluate the relations;

(ii) monitor proposals to change the relations;

(iii) evaluate the impact of the proposals on the State and its citizens and on local governments; and

(iv) keep officials of the Executive and Legislative branches of the State government and others informed about the relations and the potential impact of proposals to change the relations;

(2) serve as a forum for consideration of certain State-local issues;

(3) try to advance the cooperation between the State and other units of government by proposing or facilitating any actions that the Committee considers advisable, including:

(i) the adoption of compacts;

(ii) the enactment of uniform statutes;

(iii) the enactment of reciprocal statutes;

(iv) the adoption of uniform administrative rules or regulations;

(v) the adoption of reciprocal administrative rules or regulations;

(vi) the informal cooperation between government offices;

(vii) the personal cooperation between officials and employees of governments; and

(viii) the exchange of information; and

(4) do any other thing that the Legislative Policy Committee assigns.

(b) Subject to § 2-1257 of this title, the Committee shall submit to the General Assembly:

(1) an annual report, within 15 days after the General Assembly convenes for a regular session; and

(2) any other report that the Committee considers appropriate.

Subtitle 10

§ 2-1001

In this subtitle, “Committee” means the Spending Affordability Committee.

§ 2-1002

(a) The General Assembly finds that State expenditures for operating and capital programs must be controlled so that the level of State spending is consistent with the economic growth of the State.

(b) (1) The control of spending shall be exercised through the budgetary process as well as through legislative oversight and program review.

(2) The budget focuses on spending for the next fiscal year and provides careful scrutiny of new programs or expansion of existing programs and services and weighs the incremental cost of the State budget in light of the priority needs of the citizens.

(3) Legislative oversight seeks to eliminate inefficiencies in governmental activities and to evaluate programs in order to eliminate those no longer required and to avoid overlap and duplication of services and activities.

(c) (1) The Legislative Policy Committee shall be responsible for coordinating the spending affordability program of the General Assembly by appointment of a Spending Affordability Committee and by selection of program evaluation projects and direction of oversight activities.

(2) The goal of the spending affordability program is to limit the rate of growth of State spending to a level that does not exceed the rate of growth of the State’s economy.

§ 2-1003

(a) On or before June 1 of each year, the Legislative Policy Committee shall create a Spending Affordability Committee comprised of an equal number of Senators and Delegates. The Committee membership includes:

(1) the President and the Speaker;

(2) the chairs of the Senate Budget and Taxation Committee and the House Appropriations Committee;

(3) the majority and minority leaders of the Senate and the House or their designees; and

(4) other members of the Senate and the House who may be appointed by the President and the Speaker.

(b) The chair of the Committee shall be designated jointly by the President and the Speaker.

(c) The President and the Speaker may appoint an advisory committee of citizens to assist the Committee in its deliberations.

§ 2-1004

(a) The Committee shall review in detail the status and projections of the revenues and expenditures of the State and the status and projections of the economy of the State.

(b) In evaluating future State expenditures, the Committee shall consider economic indicators such as personal income, gross State product, or other data.

§ 2-1005

(a) On or before December 20 of each year, the Committee shall submit, subject to § 2–1257 of this title, to the Legislative Policy Committee and the Governor a report with recommendations on fiscal goals for the State budget to be considered at the next regular session of the General Assembly, including:

(1) a recommended level of State spending;

(2) a recommended level of new debt authorization;

(3) a recommended level of State personnel;

(4) a recommended use of any anticipated surplus;

(5) a recommended end–of–the–year General Fund balance;

(6) a recommended end–of–the–year balance in the Revenue Stabilization Account established under § 7–311 of the State Finance and Procurement Article;

(7) a recommended structural balance goal;

(8) a recommended fund balance for the Transportation Trust Fund established under § 3–216 of the Transportation Article;

(9) a recommended minimum expenditure level for system preservation by the Maryland Department of Transportation; and

(10) other findings or recommendations that the Committee considers appropriate.

(b) If the report recommends expenditures in excess of the annual increase in personal income, gross State product, or other data that the Committee used to measure the growth of the State’s economy, the Committee shall provide the Senate and the House with an analysis as to the extent the recommendation exceeds those economic indicators.

§ 2-1006

The Senate and the House budget committees:

(1) in considering a proposed State budget, shall consider the recommendations of the Spending Affordability Committee; and

(2) shall:

(i) report a budget bill that conforms to those recommendations; or

(ii) if the level of the budget bill in the report is above those recommendations, provide, with the report, an analysis stating the extent to which the budget bill exceeds the recommendations and explaining the budget committee’s rationale for exceeding the recommendations.

§ 2-1007

(a) The Department of Legislative Services shall provide staff services for the Committee.

(b) Units in the Executive Branch of the State government shall cooperate with the Committee and provide information to the Committee and its staff as requested.

§ 2-1008

On or before June 1 of each year, the Department of Legislative Services shall report, subject to § 2-1257 of this title, to the Legislative Policy Committee the extent to which the State budget as enacted by the General Assembly conformed to the recommendations of the Spending Affordability Committee.

§ 2-1009

On or before June 1 of each year, the Legislative Policy Committee shall select units or programs that the Legislative Policy Committee believes should be subject to legislative review and assign the selected units and programs to an appropriate committee for review and recommendations during that legislative interim.

§ 2-1010

(a) (1) In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.

(2) “Internal Revenue Code” means Title 26 of the United States Code.

(3) “Private activity bond” has the meaning stated in § 141 of the Internal Revenue Code.

(4) “State issuer” means the State of Maryland or any agency of the State of Maryland with authority to issue private activity bonds.

(b) On or before January 15 of each year, any State issuer of private activity bonds shall report, subject to § 2–1257 of this title, to the Committee:

(1) the actual level of private activity bonds issued in the prior year; and

(2) the projected level of private activity bonds to be issued in the current year.

Subtitle 10A

§ 2-10A-01

(a) There is a Joint Committee on the Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays Critical Area.

(b) (1) The Committee consists of 10 members.

(2) Of the 10 members:

(i) 5 shall be members of the Senate appointed by the President of the Senate; and

(ii) 5 shall be members of the House of Delegates appointed by the Speaker of the House.

(d) The President and the Speaker shall jointly appoint a Senator and a Delegate each to serve as cochairs.

(e) The Department of Legislative Services shall provide staff assistance to the Committee.

(f) The Critical Area Commission for the Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays shall meet with the Committee periodically as the Committee requests to review development and implementation of the criteria for program development.

(g) The Committee may study and make recommendations to the Legislative Policy Committee on any other area of the Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays Critical Area Protection Program the Committee considers appropriate.

(h) The Committee shall meet with the Critical Area Commission for the Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays, representatives of counties and municipalities having land within the critical areas, and any other interested parties to study and determine:

(1) whether adequate flexibility exists under the current criteria to meet the special characteristics and needs of the individual counties and municipalities having land within the critical areas;

(2) whether the current timetable for review of approved local critical area protection programs is adequate to meet the special characteristics and needs of the individual counties and municipalities having land within the critical areas; and

(3) whether the criteria need to be strengthened in any area so as to make the Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays Critical Area Protection Program more effective in the protection of the water quality and habitat of the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries.

(i) The Committee shall study and determine the appropriate future role of the Critical Area Commission for the Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays, including:

(1) whether the Critical Area Commission for the Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays should remain an autonomous organization or be incorporated into an existing executive agency;

(2) how long the current oversight role of the Critical Area Commission for the Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays should continue; and

(3) whether the current appeal process is the most effective appeal process to meet the goals of the Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays Critical Area protection law.

§ 2-10A-03

(a) There is a Joint Committee on Workers’ Compensation Benefit and Insurance Oversight.

(b) (1) The Committee consists of 16 members.

(2) Of the 16 members:

(i) 1. 2 shall be members of the Senate appointed by the President of the Senate; and

2. 2 shall be Delegates appointed by the Speaker of the House of Delegates; and

(ii) 12 shall be appointed jointly by the President and the Speaker as follows:

1. 1 representative of the business community;

2. 1 representative of the Maryland labor organizations;

3. 1 representative of the Maryland building and construction labor organizations;

4. 1 representative of a self–insured local government entity;

5. 2 members of the public;

6. 1 member of the insurance industry;

7. 1 member of the Medical and Chirurgical Faculty of Maryland;

8. 1 member of a workers’ compensation rating organization;

9. 2 members of the Bar of the Supreme Court of Maryland, 1 of whom represents plaintiffs in workers’ compensation cases and 1 of whom represents defendants in workers’ compensation cases; and

10. 1 member who is certified by the Workers’ Compensation Commission as a Maryland rehabilitation service provider.

(d) The President and the Speaker shall jointly appoint a Senator and a Delegate each to serve as cochair.

(e) (1) The Committee shall examine and evaluate:

(i) the condition of the workers’ compensation benefit and insurance structure in the State; and

(ii) the effect of Chapters 590 and 591 of the Laws of Maryland of 1987 on that structure.

(2) This examination shall include the regulations adopted by the Workers’ Compensation Commission that are to be used by physicians to measure impairment when preparing medical evaluations of claimants.

(f) The Insurance Commissioner and the Workers’ Compensation Commission shall:

(1) cooperate fully with the Committee;

(2) keep the Committee fully informed as to the condition of workers’ compensation benefits and workers’ compensation insurance in the State; and

(3) submit an annual report, subject to § 2–1257 of this title, to the Committee on or before October 1 of each year that incorporates the information described in item (2) of this subsection.

(g) The Committee shall report to the Governor and the Legislative Policy Committee on December 31 of each year.

§ 2-10A-06

(a) In this section, “conditions of well–being” means the desired results identified by the Maryland Partnership for Children, Youth, and Families based upon identified needs and used to improve quality.

(b) There is a Joint Committee on Children, Youth, and Families.

(1) from the Senate:

(i) the majority leader;

(ii) the minority leader; and

(iii) two members from each of the four standing committees; and

(2) from the House:

(i) the majority leader;

(ii) the minority leader; and

(iii) eight other Delegates appointed by the Speaker from among the members of the House committees that deal with issues affecting children, youth, and families.

(d) (1) Members of the Committee shall be appointed on the basis of demonstrated ability and interest concerning issues affecting children, youth, and families.

(2) In making appointments, the President and the Speaker shall provide for representation from:

(i) the committees that deal with issues affecting children, youth, and families; and

(ii) the major areas of the State.

(e) (1) (i) A member appointed by the President serves at the pleasure of the President.

(ii) A member appointed by the Speaker serves at the pleasure of the Speaker.

(2) (i) If a vacancy occurs among the Senators on the Committee, a successor promptly shall be appointed by the President.

(ii) If a vacancy occurs among the Delegates on the Committee, a successor promptly shall be appointed by the Speaker.

(f) (1) From among the membership of the Committee, the President shall appoint a Senator to serve as the Senate chair of the Committee and the Speaker shall appoint a Delegate to serve as the House chair of the Committee.

(2) The Senate chair and the House chair shall alternate annually as presiding chair and cochair of the Committee.

(g) A majority of the full authorized membership of the Committee is a quorum.

(h) The Department of Legislative Services, Office of Policy Analysis, shall provide staff assistance to the Committee.

(i) The Committee shall hold:

(1) an organizational meeting promptly after the appointment of its members; and

(2) any other meetings that the Committee considers necessary to carry out its duties efficiently.

(j) The Committee may:

(1) hold a hearing on any matter relating to the functions of the Committee; and

(2) consider a vote on a bill or resolution referred to it by the President or the Speaker.

(k) In addition to any powers and duties set forth elsewhere, in an endeavor to achieve conditions of well–being for Maryland children, youth, and families, the Committee shall:

(1) investigate the problems that jeopardize the well–being of Maryland children, youth, and families;

(2) identify State policies and actions that, in conjunction with public and private partners and in support of families and communities, can work to achieve conditions of well–being for Maryland children, youth, and families;

(3) review and make recommendations to align State statutes, regulations, programs, services, and budgetary priorities with the State policies and actions described in item (2) of this subsection;

(4) search for any interdepartmental gaps, inconsistencies, and inefficiencies in the implementation or attainment of the State policies and actions described in item (2) of this subsection;

(5) identify any new laws, regulations, programs, services, and budgetary priorities that are needed to ensure and promote desired conditions of well–being for Maryland children, youth, and families;

(6) serve as an informational resource for the Senate and the House on legislative policy matters concerning children, youth, and families; and

(7) perform other activities, including improving public awareness of the special needs of Maryland children, youth, and families.

(l) (1) Subject to § 2–1257 of this title, the Committee shall submit an annual report to the General Assembly on or before December 1 of each year.

(2) The report shall include:

(i) a description of the work of the Committee; and

(ii) any recommendations of the Committee.

§ 2-10A-08

(a) There is a Joint Committee on Fair Practices and State Personnel Oversight.

(b) (1) The Joint Committee consists of eight members.

(2) Of the eight members:

(i) four shall be members of the Senate, appointed by the President of the Senate; and

(ii) four shall be members of the House of Delegates, appointed by the Speaker of the House.

(d) The President and the Speaker jointly shall appoint a Senator and a Delegate to serve as cochairs.

(e) The Joint Committee shall have oversight over:

(1) employment policies and personnel systems in the Executive Branch of State government, including:

(i) the State Personnel Management System;

(ii) the Maryland Department of Transportation’s Human Resources Management System; and

(iii) the personnel systems of State institutions of higher education; and

(2) matters in State government of equal employment opportunity policies and practices for State employees.

(f) The purposes of the Joint Committee are to:

(1) review reports;

(2) evaluate the effectiveness of programs, policies, and practices; and

(3) identify areas of concern and, as appropriate, recommend corrective measures to the Governor and the General Assembly.

§ 2-10A-11

(a) There is a Joint Committee on Unemployment Insurance Oversight.

(b) The Committee consists of the following 15 members:

(1) three members of the Senate, appointed by the President of the Senate;

(2) three members of the House of Delegates, appointed by the Speaker of the House of Delegates;

(3) the Secretary of Labor, or the Secretary’s designee;

(4) the Secretary of Commerce, or the Secretary’s designee;

(5) a representative of the Maryland Retailers Association, designated by the Maryland Retailers Association;

(6) a representative of the Maryland Chamber of Commerce, designated by the Maryland Chamber of Commerce;

(7) a representative of the National Federation of Independent Business, designated by the National Federation of Independent Business;

(8) a representative of the Job Opportunities Task Force, designated by the Job Opportunities Task Force;

(9) two representatives of union labor, designated by the Maryland State and District of Columbia AFL–CIO; and

(10) a representative of the academic profession who is knowledgeable in unemployment insurance law, designated jointly by the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Delegates.

(d) The President and the Speaker shall appoint a Senator and a Delegate, respectively, each to serve as cochair.

(e) (1) The Committee shall examine the condition of the unemployment insurance system in the State as a result of the implementation of Chapter 169 of the Acts of the General Assembly of 2005.

(2) The Committee may examine the need for additional alterations to the unemployment insurance system, including the charging and taxation provisions and the eligibility and benefit provisions, in consideration of the fairness of the system and in order to maintain the Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund at a level sufficient to ensure that benefits will be paid from the Fund.

(f) (1) The Department of Legislative Services shall provide staffing for the Committee.

(2) The Maryland Department of Labor shall report to the Committee on the condition of unemployment insurance in the State.

(g) A member of the Committee may not receive compensation for serving on the Committee, but is entitled to reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations, as provided in the State budget.

(h) The Committee shall report its findings and recommendations to the Governor and, subject to § 2–1257 of this title, the General Assembly on December 31 of each year in which the Committee meets.

§ 2-10A-13

(a) There is a Joint Committee on Cybersecurity, Information Technology, and Biotechnology.

(b) The Committee consists of the following 12 members:

(1) six members of the Senate of Maryland, appointed by the President of the Senate; and

(2) six members of the House of Delegates, appointed by the Speaker of the House.

(d) The President and the Speaker shall appoint jointly a Senator and a Delegate to serve as cochairs who shall alternate in serving as the presiding chair of the Committee each year.

(e) The Committee shall:

(1) work to broaden the support, knowledge, and awareness of advances in cybersecurity, information technology, and biotechnology to benefit the people of Maryland;

(2) evaluate State cybersecurity systems and the adequacy of economic development and job skills training programs to advance cybersecurity in the State;

(3) make recommendations regarding actions to promote cybersecurity, information technology, and biotechnology industries in the State; and

(4) examine and evaluate additional cybersecurity–, information technology–, or biotechnology–related issues as designated by the cochairs of the Committee.

(f) The Committee shall report its findings and recommendations to the Governor and, in accordance with § 2–1257 of this title, the Legislative Policy Committee, the Senate Finance Committee, and the House Economic Matters Committee on or before December 31 of each year.

§ 2-10A-14

(a) There is a Joint Committee on Legislative Information Technology and Open Government.

(b) (1) The Committee consists of 12 members.

(2) Of the 12 members:

(i) 6 shall be members of the Senate of Maryland, appointed by the President of the Senate; and

(ii) 6 shall be members of the House of Delegates, appointed by the Speaker of the House.

(c) From among the membership of the Committee, the President of the Senate shall appoint a Senator to serve as the Senate Chair of the Committee, and the Speaker of the House shall appoint a Delegate to serve as the House Chair of the Committee.

(d) The Department of Legislative Services shall provide staff assistance to the Committee.

(e) The Committee shall:

(1) review and evaluate legislative information technology systems and goals for the General Assembly and its staff agencies;

(2) identify areas in which the State can improve its technology, websites, programs, and services to increase transparency, citizen engagement, and public awareness of and access to government resources, publications, and actions;

(3) evaluate the effects of transparency and open government policies and actions on the security of State information technology systems and information held by State units;

(4) make recommendations regarding:

(i) legislative information technology systems and goals for the General Assembly and its staff agencies;

(ii) policies or actions to enhance the security of State information technology systems and information held by State units; and

(iii) laws, programs, services, or budgetary priorities necessary to ensure and promote transparency and open government in the State; and

(5) perform any other activity related to legislative information technology systems or open government as designated by the cochairs of the Committee.

(f) (1) Subject to § 2–1257 of this title, the Committee shall submit a report to the Legislative Policy Committee on or before December 1 each year.

(2) The report shall include:

(i) a description of the work of the Committee; and

(ii) any recommendations of the Committee.

§ 2-10A-15

(a) There is a Joint Committee on Ending Homelessness.

(b) (1) The Committee consists of 16 members.

(2) Of the 16 members:

(i) eight shall be members of the Senate of Maryland, appointed by the President of the Senate; and

(ii) eight shall be members of the House of Delegates, appointed by the Speaker of the House.

(2) (i) If a vacancy occurs among the Senators on the Committee, a successor promptly shall be appointed by the President of the Senate.

(ii) If a vacancy occurs among the Delegates on the Committee, a successor promptly shall be appointed by the Speaker of the House.

(d) From among the membership of the Committee, the President of the Senate shall appoint a Senator to serve as the Senate Chair of the Committee, and the Speaker of the House shall appoint a Delegate to serve as the House Chair of the Committee.

(e) A majority of the full authorized membership of the Committee is a quorum.

(f) The Department of Legislative Services shall provide staff assistance to the Committee.

(g) The Committee shall hold:

(1) an organizational meeting promptly after the appointment of its members; and

(2) any other meetings that the Committee considers necessary to carry out its duties efficiently.

(h) The Committee may:

(1) hold a hearing on any matter relating to the functions of the Committee; and

(2) consider a vote on a bill or resolution referred to the Committee by the President of the Senate or the Speaker of the House.

(i) To ensure that public resources, programs, and policies are coordinated and effective in preventing, mitigating the effects of, and ending homelessness in Maryland, the Committee shall:

(1) study issues relating to homelessness, including:

(i) housing;

(ii) income;

(iii) health care;

(iv) education;

(v) government supports; and

(vi) veterans experiencing homelessness;

(2) consult with governmental agencies, community–based organizations, and other stakeholders to identify State policies, programs, and actions that should or could prevent, mitigate the effects of, and end homelessness in Maryland;

(3) review and make recommendations to align State statutes, regulations, programs, services, and budgetary priorities with the State policies and actions described in item (2) of this subsection;

(4) search for any intradepartmental or interdepartmental gaps, inconsistencies, and inefficiencies in the implementation or attainment of the State policies, programs, and actions described in item (2) of this subsection; and

(5) identify new laws, regulations, programs, services, and budgetary priorities that are needed to prevent, mitigate the effects of, and end homelessness in Maryland.

(j) The Governor’s Interagency Council on Homelessness shall:

(1) cooperate fully with the Committee;

(2) keep the Committee fully informed as to its priorities and progress; and

(3) submit an annual report, subject to § 2–1257 of this title, to the Committee on or before October 1 of each year that includes:

(i) a description of the Council’s work;

(ii) a report on the Council’s priorities and progress; and

(iii) recommendations for new laws, regulations, programs, services, and budgetary priorities that are needed to prevent, mitigate the effects of, and end homelessness in Maryland.

(k) (1) Subject to § 2–1257 of this title, the Committee shall submit a report to the General Assembly on or before December 1 each year.

(2) The report shall include:

(i) a description of the work of the Committee; and

(ii) any recommendations of the Committee.

Subtitle 11

§ 2-1101

(a) When the General Assembly is not in session, any decision that relates to or affects a member of a committee of the General Assembly shall be made:

(1) as to a Senate member, by the President; and

(2) as to a House member, by the Speaker.

(b) The responsibilities of the President and the Speaker under this section include:

(1) appointing members of committees;

(2) appointing officers of committees; and

(3) setting the dates, times, and places for committee meetings.

§ 2-1102

Each standing committee continues when the General Assembly is not in session.

§ 2-1103

(a) While the General Assembly is not in session, each standing committee may:

(1) study and prepare recommendations and reports on any matter that is within the usual and customary jurisdiction of the standing committee; and

(2) otherwise exercise the usual and customary powers that the standing committee has when the General Assembly is in session.

(b) If time permits, each standing committee shall send to the Legislative Policy Committee a copy of each proposed bill and joint resolution that the standing committee intends to introduce in the General Assembly.

§ 2-1104

(a) With the prior approval of the Legislative Policy Committee, a standing committee, in carrying out any of its functions or powers, may:

(1) issue subpoenas;

(2) compel the attendance of witnesses;

(3) compel the production of any papers, books, accounts, documents, and testimony;

(4) administer oaths; and

(5) cause the depositions of witnesses, who reside in or outside of the State, to be taken in the manner provided by law for taking depositions in a civil case.

(b) (1) If a person fails to comply with a subpoena issued under this section or fails to testify on any matter on which the person lawfully may be interrogated, on petition of a member of the standing committee, a circuit court may pass an order directing compliance with the subpoena or compelling testimony and may enforce the order by proceedings for contempt.

(2) Venue and procedures for a proceeding under paragraph (1) of this subsection to direct compliance with a subpoena or compel testimony are as provided in § 2–1803 of this title.

§ 2-1105

Within the amounts made available by appropriation, each officer and unit of the State government shall conduct any study that a standing committee requests.

Subtitle 12

§ 2-1201

(a) In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.

(b) “Department” means the Department of Legislative Services.

§ 2-1202

There is a Department of Legislative Services in the Legislative Branch of the State government.

§ 2-1203

(a) The head of the Department is the Executive Director, who shall be appointed jointly by the President and the Speaker.

(b) The Executive Director:

(1) serves without a fixed term and may be removed by the Legislative Policy Committee on the recommendation of the President and the Speaker;

(2) is entitled to the salary provided in the State budget;

(3) shall devote full time to the duties of the Office; and

(4) shall serve in a nonpartisan capacity and ensure that the activities of the Department are conducted in a nonpartisan manner.

(c) Subject to the policies and directives of the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House and the Legislative Policy Committee, the Executive Director has general administrative control of the operation of the Department and its units.

§ 2-1204

The Executive Director, under the direction of the President and the Speaker, shall:

(1) oversee the activities of the Department to ensure that its functions are performed correctly, efficiently, and in a timely and nonpartisan manner;

(2) coordinate the activities of the offices of the Department to ensure that the responsibilities of each office are carried out, maximize cooperation among the Department’s employees, and achieve the greatest efficiency in the use of personnel and other resources;

(3) prepare the annual budget for the Department after consultation with the office directors;

(4) conduct an annual evaluation of the performance of each office director;

(5) communicate the opinions, needs, and concerns of the Department’s employees to the President and the Speaker; and

(6) perform any other function required by the President and the Speaker.

§ 2-1205

(a) The Department shall employ a staff and engage other staff and consultant services in accordance with the State budget.

(b) Positions in the Department are subject to the personnel guidelines established under subsection (c) of this section.

(c) The Legislative Policy Committee shall adopt guidelines that are not inconsistent with law and that, for employees of the Department, govern:

(1) hiring;

(2) probationary periods;

(3) tenure;

(4) promotion;

(5) overtime compensation;

(6) discrimination;

(7) compensatory work for absences due to religious beliefs;

(8) holidays;

(9) part-time employment;

(10) grievance procedures;

(11) removal; and

(12) political activity.

(d) The provisions of § 2-304 of the State Personnel and Pensions Article do not apply to an employee of the Department.

§ 2-1206

(a) The following units are in the Department:

(1) the Office of Legislative Audits;

(2) the Office of Program Evaluation and Government Accountability;

(3) the Office of Policy Analysis;

(4) the Office of Operations and Support Services; and

(5) any other offices as may be designated by the President and the Speaker.

(b) With the approval of the President and the Speaker and in consultation with the minority leader of the Senate and the minority leader of the House of Delegates, the Executive Director shall appoint the following office directors:

(1) the director of the Office of Legislative Audits;

(2) the director of the Office of Program Evaluation and Government Accountability;

(3) the director of the Office of Policy Analysis;

(4) the director of the Office of Operations and Support Services; and

(5) any director of an office designated by the President and the Speaker under subsection (a)(5) of this section.

(c) Each office director serves without a fixed term and, subject to the approval of the President and the Speaker and in consultation with the minority leader of the Senate and the minority leader of the House of Delegates, may be removed by the Executive Director.

(d) Each office director shall serve in a nonpartisan capacity and ensure that all activities of the office are conducted in a nonpartisan manner.

(e) Each office director is entitled to the salary provided in the State budget.

(f) After consultation with the Executive Director, each office director may appoint an appropriate number of qualified individuals to serve in management functions in the respective offices.

§ 2-1207

In addition to any duties set forth elsewhere, the Department shall provide:

(1) budget and fiscal review, analysis, research, studies, and reports;

(2) legislative drafting and statutory revision services;

(3) legal research, review, analysis, studies, and reports;

(4) general research and policy analysis;

(5) fiscal/compliance, financial statement, and performance audits of units of the State government;

(6) legislative research, legislative document and material collection and preservation, and other library services;

(7) public information services about legislative activities;

(8) document preparation and publication services;

(9) legislative information systems maintenance, development, and support; and

(10) administrative support services for the Department and, where appropriate, for the General Assembly relating to finance, personnel, distribution, telecommunications, printing and copying, supplies, housekeeping, and maintenance.

§ 2-1208

(a) The staff and facilities of the Department shall be available to prepare fiscal, legal, and policy reports for and otherwise help:

(1) any standing committee;

(2) any statutory committee;

(3) any special committee of the Legislative Policy Committee; and

(4) with the consent of the President and the Speaker, any joint legislative and executive body that the Governor appoints.

(b) The Executive Director shall assign, to the staff of the Department or to a special research or consulting agency, the preparation of any fiscal, legal, or policy report that the Legislative Policy Committee or a standing committee requests.

§ 2-1209

On or before December 1 of the year immediately preceding the beginning of a term of the General Assembly, the Department of Legislative Services, in consultation with agencies and institutions in State government and all other entities required by law to submit reports at specified times and on specified matters to the General Assembly or the Governor, shall:

(1) review the laws of the State that require the submission of reports at specified times and on specified matters to the General Assembly or the Governor; and

(2) make recommendations to the Legislative Policy Committee and prepare legislation for introduction to repeal or modify those statutory requirements to submit reports if the reports are no longer warranted because they have become obsolete, duplicative, impractical, inefficient, or otherwise unnecessary.

§ 2-1211

(a) In this part the following words have the meanings indicated.

(b) “Director” means the Director of the Office of Operations and Support Services.

§ 2-1212

(a) There is an Office of Operations and Support Services in the Department.

(b) The head of the Office is the Director.

§ 2-1213

(a) (1) The Office shall receive and analyze requests from members of the General Assembly for reimbursement and from other persons for payment of legislative expenses, including:

(i) office rent;

(ii) secretarial and other services;

(iii) telephone and other communication expenses;

(iv) equipment;

(v) supplies; and

(vi) travel.

(2) The Office shall provide the reimbursement or make payments as provided in the State budget and account for the reimbursements and payments.

(3) The Office shall make payments and reimbursements consistent with the policies of the President and the Speaker, the Management Subcommittee, and the Legislative Policy Committee.

(b) (1) The President and the Speaker may authorize the Office to create accounts for revenues received from payment of fees or charges and to utilize the funds to provide services to individuals, organizations, or other units of State or local governments.

(2) Funds in the accounts may only be expended in accordance with the budget or by budget amendment.

(3) On directive by the President and the Speaker, unexpended revenues in the accounts may revert to the State or may be retained for expenditure in a subsequent budget.

(4) The Comptroller’s Office shall be notified of accounts created in accordance with this section.

§ 2-1214

(a) The Office shall manage all personnel activities of the Department and generally carry out the duties set forth in § 2–1205 of this subtitle.

(b) The Office shall manage the personnel activities of the General Assembly as assigned by the President and the Speaker.

(i) the name of each member of the General Assembly, each employee of the General Assembly, and each employee of the Department who takes workplace harassment prevention training;

(ii) the date the workplace harassment prevention training was completed; and

(iii) the name of the person who conducted the training.

(2) The Office shall:

(i) maintain the records required under paragraph (1) of this subsection for at least 5 years after the member or employee takes workplace harassment prevention training; and

(ii) publish the records related to training of members of the General Assembly on the website of the General Assembly.

§ 2-1215

In addition to any other duties set forth elsewhere, the Office shall:

(1) provide for the preparation and publication of legislation, session laws, journals of proceedings, indexes, and other documents;

(2) directly supervise support services to the General Assembly that are not assigned to one of the Department’s other offices; and

(3) perform any other function required by the Executive Director, the President and the Speaker, or the Legislative Policy Committee.

§ 2-1216

The Office shall:

(1) develop, coordinate, support, and maintain the physical and online services, technology, applications, and information systems that support the work and meet the needs of the General Assembly and the Department;

(2) evaluate and make recommendations regarding the physical and online services, technology, applications, and information systems that support the work of the General Assembly to ensure maximum efficiency;

(3) evaluate and ensure that appropriate systems are in place to address cybersecurity threats to the work of the General Assembly and the Department;

(4) plan for the future information systems needs of the General Assembly, its staff, and the Department; and

(5) carry out any other function required by the Executive Director, the President and the Speaker, or the Legislative Policy Committee.

§ 2-1217

There is an Office of Legislative Audits in the Department.

§ 2-1218

(a) The head of the Office of Legislative Audits is the director of the Office of Legislative Audits, who shall serve as the Legislative Auditor.

(b) The Legislative Auditor must:

(1) be licensed as a certified public accountant in the State;

(2) at the time of appointment, have at least 3 years’ auditing experience; and

(3) while in office, be covered by a surety bond or an insurance policy of the type and in the amount of coverage determined by the State Treasurer under § 5–108 of this article.

(c) Subject to the policies and directives of the President and the Speaker, the Joint Audit and Evaluation Committee, and the overall supervision and control of the Executive Director, the Legislative Auditor has general administrative control of the operation of the Office of Legislative Audits.

§ 2-1219

(a) With the approval of the Executive Director, the Legislative Auditor shall appoint a Deputy Legislative Auditor and other professional staff and may contract with consultants as authorized representatives.

(b) (1) The Deputy Legislative Auditor must be licensed as a certified public accountant in the State.

(2) The Deputy Legislative Auditor:

(i) has the duties delegated by the Legislative Auditor; and

(ii) may be designated by the Executive Director to act as Legislative Auditor if the office is vacant or the Legislative Auditor is unable to perform the duties of office.

(c) With the approval of the Executive Director, the Legislative Auditor shall appoint professional staff to conduct audits of local school systems in accordance with § 2-1220(e) of this subtitle.

§ 2-1219.1

In this subtitle, “examination” includes all authorized work and required audits under § 2-1220 of this subtitle.

§ 2-1220

(a) (1) In this subsection, “unit” includes each State department, agency, unit, and program, including each clerk of court and each register of wills.

(2) (i) The Office of Legislative Audits shall conduct a fiscal/compliance audit of each unit of the State government, except for units in the Legislative Branch.

(ii) The audit of each unit shall be conducted at an interval ranging from 3 to 4 years unless the Legislative Auditor determines, on a case–by–case basis, that more frequent audits are required.

(iii) In determining the audit interval for a unit, the Office of Legislative Audits shall take into consideration:

1. the materiality and risk of the unit’s fiscal activities with respect to the State’s fiscal activities;

2. the complexity of the unit’s fiscal structure; and

3. the nature and extent of audit findings in the unit’s prior audit reports.

(iv) Each agency or program may be audited separately or as part of a larger organizational unit of State government.

(3) Performance audits or financial statement audits shall be conducted when authorized by the Legislative Auditor, when directed by the Joint Audit and Evaluation Committee or the Executive Director, or when otherwise required by law.

(4) (i) In addition to the audits required under paragraph (2) of this subsection, the Office of Legislative Audits may conduct a review when the objectives of the work to be performed can be satisfactorily fulfilled without conducting an audit as prescribed in § 2–1221 of this subtitle.

(ii) 1. The Office of Legislative Audits has the authority to conduct a separate investigation of an act or allegation of fraud, waste, or abuse in the obligation, expenditure, receipt, or use of State resources.

2. The Legislative Auditor shall determine whether an investigation shall be conducted in conjunction with an audit undertaken in accordance with this subsection or separately.

(5) If, on request of the Comptroller, the Joint Audit and Evaluation Committee so directs, the Office of Legislative Audits shall audit or review a claim that has been presented to the Comptroller for payment of an expenditure or disbursement and that is alleged to have been made by or for an officer or unit of the State government.

(6) The Office of Legislative Audits shall conduct an audit or review to determine the accuracy of information about or procedures of a unit of the State government, as directed by the Joint Audit and Evaluation Committee or the Executive Director.

(b) If the General Assembly, by resolution, or the Joint Audit and Evaluation Committee so directs, the Office of Legislative Audits shall conduct an audit or review of a corporation or association to which the General Assembly has appropriated money or that has received funds from an appropriation from the State Treasury.

(d) (1) The Office of Legislative Audits shall review any audit report prepared under the authority of:

(i) §§ 16–305 through 16–308 of the Local Government Article, with respect to a county, municipal corporation, or taxing district; or

(ii) § 16–315 of the Education Article, with respect to a community college.

(2) The results of any review made by the Office of Legislative Audits under paragraph (1) of this subsection shall be reported as provided in § 2–1224 of this subtitle.

(e) (1) Except as provided in paragraph (4) of this subsection, at least once every 6 years, the Office of Legislative Audits shall conduct an audit of each local school system to evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of the financial management practices of the local school system.

(2) The audits may be performed concurrently or separately.

(3) The Office of Legislative Audits shall provide information regarding the audit process to the local school system before the audit is conducted.

(4) (i) Subject to the limitation under subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph, beginning in fiscal year 2017, a local school system shall be exempt from the audit requirement under paragraph (1) of this subsection if the county governing body, the county board of education, and the county delegation to the Maryland General Assembly consisting of the county senators and delegates each submits a letter to the Joint Audit and Evaluation Committee requesting an exemption on or before November 1 of fiscal year 2017, or on or before November 1 of the last year of a 6–year audit cycle under paragraph (1) of this subsection, as determined by the Office of Legislative Audits.

(ii) A local school system may not be exempt for two consecutive 6–year audit cycles.

(5) (i) On or before November 1 of the third year of a 6–year audit cycle under paragraph (1) of this subsection, each local school system shall submit a report to the Joint Audit and Evaluation Committee on the status of implementation of corrective actions to address repeat findings and recommendations identified by the Office of Legislative Audits in the most recent audit conducted under paragraph (1) of this subsection.

(ii) Each local school system shall publish the report required under this paragraph on its website.

(iii) Before publishing the report in accordance with subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph, any cybersecurity findings shall be redacted in a manner consistent with auditing best practices.

(6) Notwithstanding paragraph (4) of this subsection, the Joint Audit and Evaluation Committee may direct the Office of Legislative Audits to conduct an audit of a local school system at any time.

(f) (1) At least once every 6 years, the Office of Legislative Audits shall conduct a performance audit of the Board of Liquor License Commissioners for Baltimore City to evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of the management practices of the Board and of the economy with which the Board uses resources.

(2) At any time on request of the President and the Speaker, the Office shall conduct a performance audit of the local licensing board, as defined in § 1–101 of the Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis Article, for a county or for the City of Annapolis to evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of the management practices of the board and of the economy with which the board uses resources.

(3) The performance audit shall focus on operations relating to liquor inspections, licensing, disciplinary procedures, and management oversight.

(g) (1) At least once every 6 years, the Office of Legislative Audits shall conduct a performance audit of the Board of License Commissioners for Prince George’s County to evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of the management practices of the Board and of the economy with which the Board uses resources.

(2) The performance audit shall focus on operations relating to liquor inspections, licensing, disciplinary procedures, and management oversight.

(h) (1) Beginning July 1, 2020, and at least once every 6 years thereafter, the Office of Legislative Audits shall conduct an audit or audits of the Baltimore Police Department to evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of the financial management practices of the Baltimore Police Department.

(2) The scope and objectives of the audit or audits shall be determined by the Legislative Auditor.

(3) The Office of Legislative Audits shall provide information regarding the audit process to the Baltimore Police Department before the audit is conducted.

(4) The Baltimore City government shall make available to the Office of Legislative Audits all City employees, records, and information systems deemed necessary by the Legislative Auditor to conduct the audit or audits required by this subsection.

§ 2-1221

(a) A fiscal/compliance audit conducted by the Office of Legislative Audits shall include:

(1) examining financial transactions and records and internal controls;

(2) evaluating compliance with applicable laws and regulations;

(3) examining electronic data processing operations; and

(4) evaluating compliance with applicable laws and regulations relating to the acquisition of goods and services from Maryland Correctional Enterprises.

(b) A performance audit conducted by the Office of Legislative Audits may include:

(1) evaluating the efficiency, effectiveness, and economy with which resources are used;

(2) determining whether desired program results are achieved; and

(3) determining the reliability of performance measures, as defined in § 3–1001(g) of the State Finance and Procurement Article, identified in:

(i) the managing for results agency strategic plan developed under § 3–1002(c) of the State Finance and Procurement Article; or

(ii) the StateStat agency strategic plan developed under § 3–1003(d) of the State Finance and Procurement Article.

(c) The purpose of financial statement audits conducted by the Office of Legislative Audits shall be to express an opinion regarding the fairness of the presentation of a unit’s financial statements.

(d) The audits referred to in subsections (a), (b), and (c) of this section shall be conducted in accordance with generally accepted government auditing standards.

(e) (1) Upon approval of the Joint Audit and Evaluation Committee, the Office of Legislative Audits shall develop and use a rating system that is based on the results of a fiscal/compliance audit to determine an overall evaluation of a unit’s financial transactions, records, and internal controls and compliance with applicable laws and regulations as a means of comparing the various units of State government.

(2) When an evaluation is issued, it shall be provided to the unit and shall be available to the Joint Audit and Evaluation Committee and the Budget Committees of the Maryland General Assembly.

§ 2-1222

(a) An examination conducted by the Office of Legislative Audits shall generally be made at the offices of the State unit, county officer or unit, corporation, association, or local school system that is subject to examination.

(b) (1) If considered appropriate and after consultation with the unit or body being examined, the Legislative Auditor may authorize all or a portion of an examination to be conducted at the offices of the Office of Legislative Audits.

(2) Before the original or only copy of any record is removed from the State unit’s premises, the prior approval of the State unit for the removal is required.

§ 2-1223

(a) (1) Except as prohibited by the federal Internal Revenue Code, the employees or authorized representatives of the Office of Legislative Audits shall have access to and may inspect the records, including those that are confidential by law, of any unit of the State government or of a person or other body receiving State funds, with respect to any matter under the jurisdiction of the Office of Legislative Audits.

(2) In conjunction with an examination authorized under this subtitle, the access required by paragraph (1) of this subsection shall include the records of contractors and subcontractors that perform work under State contracts.

(3) The employees or authorized representatives of the Office of Legislative Audits shall have access to and may inspect the records, including those that are confidential by law, of:

(i) any local school system to perform the audits authorized under § 2–1220 of this subtitle or in accordance with a request for information as provided in § 5–114(d) of the Education Article;

(ii) the Board of Liquor License Commissioners for Baltimore City to perform the audits authorized under § 2–1220(f)(1) of this subtitle;

(iii) the board of license commissioners for a county or for the City of Annapolis to perform the audits authorized under § 2–1220(f)(2) of this subtitle;

(iv) the Board of License Commissioners for Prince George’s County to perform the audits authorized under § 2–1220(g) of this subtitle; and

(v) the Baltimore Police Department and the Baltimore City government to perform the audits required under § 2–1220(h) of this subtitle.

(b) Each officer or employee of the unit or body that is subject to examination shall provide any information that the Legislative Auditor determines to be needed for the examination of that unit or body, or of any matter under the authority of the Office of Legislative Audits, including information that otherwise would be confidential under any provision of law.

(c) (1) The Legislative Auditor may issue process that requires an official who is subject to examination to produce a record that is needed for the examination.

(2) The process shall be sent to the sheriff for the county where the official is located.

(3) The sheriff promptly shall serve the process.

(4) The State shall pay the cost of process.

(5) If a person fails to comply with process issued under this subsection or fails to provide information that is requested during an examination, a circuit court may issue an order directing compliance with the process or compelling that the information requested be provided.

§ 2-1223.1

On the preliminary completion of an examination of a public senior higher education institution by the Office of Legislative Audits, the Legislative Auditor shall send a copy of the discussion notes of the examination relating to any preliminary findings of substantial fiscal impropriety to the following individuals and governing boards of the respective institutions that were subject to the examination:

(1) the Chancellor of the University System of Maryland and the University System of Maryland Board of Regents Audit Committee;

(2) the President of Morgan State University and the Finance and Facilities Committee of the Board of Regents of Morgan State University; or

(3) the President of St. Mary’s College of Maryland and the Finance, Investment, and Audit Committee of the Board of Trustees of St. Mary’s College of Maryland.

§ 2-1224

(a) In this section, “unit” includes:

(1) the Board of Liquor License Commissioners for Baltimore City;

(2) the board of license commissioners for a county or for the City of Annapolis subject to an audit under § 2–1220(f)(2) of this subtitle; and

(3) the Board of License Commissioners for Prince George’s County.

(b) Except with the written approval of the Legislative Auditor, an employee or authorized representative of the Office of Legislative Audits shall submit any report of findings only to the Legislative Auditor.

(c) (1) On the completion of each examination, the Legislative Auditor shall submit a full and detailed report to the Joint Audit and Evaluation Committee.

(2) A report shall include:

(i) the findings;

(ii) any appropriate recommendations for changes in record keeping or in other conduct of the unit or body that is the subject of the report; and

(iii) any response of that unit or body, subject to procedures approved by the Joint Audit and Evaluation Committee.

(d) The Legislative Auditor shall send a copy of the report to:

(1) the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Delegates;

(2) the chairs of the Senate Budget and Taxation and House Appropriations Committees;

(3) members of the General Assembly, subject to § 2–1257 of this subtitle;

(4) the Governor, unless the report is of the Board of Liquor License Commissioners for Baltimore City, the board of license commissioners for a county or for the City of Annapolis subject to an audit under § 2–1220(f)(2) of this subtitle, or the Board of License Commissioners for Prince George’s County;

(5) the Comptroller;

(6) the State Treasurer, unless the report is of the Board of Liquor License Commissioners for Baltimore City, the board of license commissioners for a county or for the City of Annapolis subject to an audit under § 2–1220(f)(2) of this subtitle, or the Board of License Commissioners for Prince George’s County;

(7) the Attorney General, unless the report is of the Board of Liquor License Commissioners for Baltimore City, the board of license commissioners for a county or for the City of Annapolis subject to an audit under § 2–1220(f)(2) of this subtitle, or the Board of License Commissioners for Prince George’s County;

(8) the unit or body that is the subject of the report;

(9) the Secretary of Budget and Management, unless the report is of the Board of Liquor License Commissioners for Baltimore City, the board of license commissioners for a county or for the City of Annapolis subject to an audit under § 2–1220(f)(2) of this subtitle, or the Board of License Commissioners for Prince George’s County;

(10) the Executive Director; and

(11) any other person whom the Joint Audit and Evaluation Committee specifies.

(e) In addition to the requirements of subsection (d) of this section, each report of:

(1) a local school system shall be distributed to the chair of the House Ways and Means Committee and the cochairs of the Joint Committee on the Management of Public Funds;

(2) the Board of Liquor License Commissioners for Baltimore City shall be distributed to the chair of the Baltimore City delegation and the chair of the Baltimore City senators;

(3) the board of license commissioners for a county or for the City of Annapolis subject to an audit under § 2–1220(f)(2) of this subtitle shall be distributed to:

(i) the governing body, as defined in § 1–101 of the Local Government Article, of the county or the City of Annapolis;

(ii) the chair of the county’s House Delegation to the General Assembly; and

(iii) the chair of the county’s Senate Delegation to the General Assembly; and

(4) the Board of License Commissioners for Prince George’s County shall be distributed to:

(i) the Prince George’s County Council;

(ii) the Prince George’s County Executive;

(iii) the chair of the Prince George’s County House Delegation to the General Assembly; and

(iv) the chair of the Prince George’s County Senate Delegation to the General Assembly.

(f) Except as provided in subsection (i) of this section, after the expiration of any period that the Joint Audit and Evaluation Committee specifies, a report of the Legislative Auditor is available to the public under Title 4, Subtitles 1 through 5 of the General Provisions Article.

(g) (1) The Legislative Auditor shall review each unit’s response and advise the unit of the results of the review. The Legislative Auditor shall advise the Joint Audit and Evaluation Committee when:

(i) a unit does not make a response to a recommendation;

(ii) a unit does not indicate action to be taken in response to a recommendation;

(iii) a unit has not taken the action the unit indicated in its response to a recommendation;

(iv) a unit requests a waiver from a recommendation; or

(v) the response by the unit is not considered appropriate to carry out the recommendation.

(2) The Executive Director or the Joint Audit and Evaluation Committee may direct the Legislative Auditor to undertake a review to determine the extent to which action has been taken by a unit to implement a report recommendation.

(3) With respect to findings and recommendations of a fiscal/compliance nature, the Committee may recommend to the Governor and the Comptroller that the unit take the corrective action the unit indicates would be taken or take action to correct the findings in the report or the Committee may grant a waiver from the recommended action.

(4) Within 45 days after receipt of the recommendation the Governor shall advise the Committee as to the action taken with respect to the recommendation.

(5) Without concurrence of the Comptroller, the Committee may not waive a recommendation of the Legislative Auditor with respect to fiscal and financial record keeping, a uniform system of accounting, or the submission of fiscal and financial reports by the units.

(6) With respect to findings and recommendations of a performance nature, the Committee may make recommendations to the Governor or propose legislation after reviewing a unit’s response to a recommended action.

(7) The Legislative Auditor shall review each local school system’s response to an audit conducted under § 2–1220(e) of this subtitle and advise the local school system of the results of the review. The Legislative Auditor shall advise the Joint Audit and Evaluation Committee when a local school system:

(i) does not make a response to a recommendation;

(ii) does not indicate action to be taken in response to a recommendation;

(iii) has not taken the action the local school system indicated in its response to a recommendation; or

(iv) responds in a manner that is not considered appropriate to carry out the recommendation.

(8) The Executive Director or the Joint Audit and Evaluation Committee may direct the Legislative Auditor to undertake a review to determine the extent to which action has been taken by a local school system to implement a report recommendation.

(9) With respect to findings and recommendations made to a local school system, the Joint Audit and Evaluation Committee may make recommendations to the Governor, State Superintendent of Schools, the local school governing board, or local school officials after reviewing a local school system’s response to a recommended action.

(h) (1) The Governor and the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Maryland shall implement systems and processes to monitor the efforts of the Executive Departmental Units and the Judiciary, respectively, to correct audit findings reported by the Office of Legislative Audits.

(2) Within 9 months of the most recent audit report, any unit that has five or more repeat audit findings shall report to the Office of Legislative Audits for each finding in that audit report:

(i) the corrective actions taken; or

(ii) a schedule for when specific corrective actions will be implemented.

(3) Each unit required to report to the Office of Legislative Audits under paragraph (2) of this subsection shall continue to report to the Office of Legislative Audits on a quarterly basis after the initial report until the actions reported by the agency indicate that satisfactory progress has been made to address all findings.

(i) A report auditing a unit of State or local government shall have any cybersecurity findings redacted in a manner consistent with auditing best practices before the report is made available to the public.

§ 2-1225

(a) (1) In addition to the reports under § 2–1224 of this subtitle, the Legislative Auditor shall report an apparent violation of any law on use of State funds by the unit of the State government or other body that is examined.

(2) A report under this subsection shall be submitted to:

(i) the Joint Audit and Evaluation Committee;

(ii) the Executive Director;

(iii) the unit or body that is the subject of the report; and

(iv) the Office of the Attorney General.

(b) (1) If the Legislative Auditor discovers any alleged criminal violation by a person during the course of an examination, the Legislative Auditor shall report the alleged violation to the Attorney General and an appropriate State’s Attorney.

(2) A report under this subsection shall ask the Attorney General and State’s Attorney to take appropriate action.

(3) Unless the Attorney General or State’s Attorney decides to prosecute an alleged criminal violation reported under this subsection, the Attorney General and State’s Attorney shall keep the report of the Legislative Auditor under this subsection confidential.

(4) The Attorney General may investigate and prosecute any alleged criminal violation reported under this subsection and has all the powers and duties of a State’s Attorney, including the use of a grand jury in any county or Baltimore City, to investigate and prosecute the alleged violation.

(c) (1) The Office of the Attorney General shall respond, in writing, to a report received from the Legislative Auditor under this section.

(2) The response of the Attorney General shall include what actions, if any, were taken as a result of the findings of the Legislative Auditor.

(3) The response of the Attorney General shall be submitted to:

(i) the Joint Audit and Evaluation Committee;

(ii) the Executive Director;

(iii) the unit or body that is the subject of the report; and

(iv) the Legislative Auditor.

§ 2-1226

(a) Except as provided in § 2–1225 of this subtitle and subsection (b) of this section, information that an employee or authorized representative of the Office of Legislative Audits obtains during an examination or in relation to an act or allegation of fraud, waste, or abuse:

(1) is confidential; and

(2) may not be disclosed except to another employee or authorized representative of the Office of Legislative Audits.

(b) The Legislative Auditor may authorize the disclosure of information obtained during an examination or in relation to an act or allegation of fraud, waste, or abuse only to the following:

(1) another employee of the Department, with the approval of the Executive Director;

(2) federal, State, or local officials, or their auditors, who provide evidence to the Legislative Auditor that they are performing investigations, studies, or audits related to that same examination and who provide justification for the specific information requested; or

(3) the Joint Audit and Evaluation Committee, if necessary to assist the Committee in reviewing a report issued by the Legislative Auditor.

(c) Except as provided in § 2–1225 of this subtitle, if information that an employee or authorized representative obtains during an examination also is confidential under another law, the employee, authorized representative, or the Legislative Auditor may not include in a report or otherwise use the information in any manner that discloses the identity of any person who is the subject of the confidential information.

§ 2-1227

A person is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to a fine not exceeding $1,000 if the person:

(1) fails to comply promptly with process that the Legislative Auditor issues under this Part IV of this subtitle; or

(2) violates any provision of § 2–1224(b) or § 2–1226 of this subtitle.

§ 2-1228

(a) (1) The Office of Legislative Audits shall maintain a fraud hotline for the reporting of allegations of fraud, waste, and abuse in the obligation, expenditure, receipt, or use of State resources.

(2) The Office of Legislative Audits may investigate an allegation received under paragraph (1) of this subsection within the scope of its authority or refer the allegation to the appropriate federal, State, or local agencies responsible for the enforcement or administration of the matter for investigation.

(b) Each unit of State government shall:

(1) keep posted in conspicuous places on its premises a notice prepared by the Office of Legislative Audits setting forth the methods for reporting fraud, waste, and abuse of State resources;

(2) keep posted in conspicuous places on its website a direct link to the website of the Office of Legislative Audits for reporting fraud, waste, and abuse; and

(3) on request of the Office of Legislative Audits, distribute information related to the prevention, detection, and reporting of fraud, waste, and abuse of State resources to State employees and other persons or bodies receiving State funds.

§ 2-1230

(a) In this Part V the following words have the meanings indicated.

(b) “Committees of jurisdiction” means the committees of the General Assembly that routinely handle the policy issues and legislation related to a specific governmental activity or unit subject to review under this part.

(d) “Office” means the Office of Program Evaluation and Government Accountability.

(e) “Performance evaluation” means the review of a governmental activity or unit used to determine:

(1) whether the governmental activity or unit, if subject to termination, should be reestablished or terminated; and

(2) what, if any, statutory or nonstatutory changes should be recommended to the General Assembly to improve the operations and efficiency of the governmental activity or unit.

(f) (1) “Unit” includes each State department, agency, unit, and program, including each clerk of the court, each register of wills, and each local school system.

(2) “Unit” does not include a department, an agency, or a unit in the Legislative Branch of State government.

§ 2-1231

There is an Office of Program Evaluation and Government Accountability in the Department.

§ 2-1232

(a) The head of the Office is the Director.

(b) Subject to the policies and directives of the President and the Speaker, the Joint Audit and Evaluation Committee, and the overall supervision and control of the Executive Director, the Director has general administrative control of the operation of the Office.

§ 2-1233

(a) With the approval of the Executive Director, the Director may appoint a Deputy Director and other professional staff and contract with consultants as authorized representatives.

(b) The Deputy Director:

(1) has the duties delegated by the Director; and

(2) may be designated by the Executive Director to act as Director if the office is vacant or the Director is unable to perform the duties of office.

§ 2-1234

(a) (1) The Office shall conduct a performance evaluation of units of State government, in accordance with the work plan developed by the Director in consultation with the Joint Audit and Evaluation Committee.

(2) An agency or a program may be evaluated separately or as part of a larger organizational unit of State government.

(3) In addition to the performance evaluations conducted under paragraph (1) of this subsection, the Office:

(i) may conduct a performance evaluation of a unit on a request by the Legislative Auditor; and

(ii) shall conduct a performance evaluation of a unit:

1. when directed by the Joint Audit and Evaluation Committee or the Executive Director; or

2. when otherwise required by law.

(4) (i) When directed by the Joint Audit and Evaluation Committee, the Executive Director, or the Director, the Office shall conduct a separate investigation of an act or allegation of fraud, waste, or abuse in the obligation, expenditure, receipt, or use of State resources.

(ii) The Director shall determine whether an investigation shall be conducted in conjunction with an audit undertaken in accordance with Part IV of this subtitle or separately.

(b) In addition to the performance evaluations conducted under subsection (a) of this section, the Office may conduct performance evaluations in accordance with the Maryland Program Evaluation Act.

(1) conduct an assessment or a scoping performance evaluation of a unit of State government in order to determine whether the unit should undergo a more comprehensive performance evaluation under this part; and

(2) based on the findings of the assessment or scoping preliminary evaluation conducted under item (1) of this subsection, waive the unit from a more comprehensive performance evaluation under this part.

(d) If directed by the Joint Audit and Evaluation Committee, the Office shall conduct a performance evaluation of a corporation or an association to which the General Assembly has appropriated money or that has received funds from an appropriation from the State Treasury.

(e) (1) If directed by the Joint Audit and Evaluation Committee, the Executive Director, the Director, or when otherwise required by law, the Office shall conduct a performance evaluation of a local school system.

(2) A performance evaluation conducted under paragraph (1) of this subsection may be performed concurrently with or separately from an audit conducted by the Office of Legislative Audits in accordance with § 2–1220 of this subtitle.

(3) The Office shall provide information regarding the performance evaluation process to the local school system before the performance evaluation is conducted.

§ 2-1235

(a) This section does not apply to a performance evaluation conducted in accordance with the Maryland Program Evaluation Act.

(b) A performance evaluation conducted by the Office may include:

(1) evaluating the efficiency, effectiveness, and economy with which resources are used;

(2) determining whether desired program results are achieved;

(3) determining whether a program aligns with the unit’s mission;

(4) evaluating whether a program duplicates another program or activity within another unit;

(5) evaluating whether the governmental activity or unit under evaluation operates:

(i) in an open and accountable manner, with public access to records and meetings, safeguards against conflicts of interest, and opportunity for public participation; and

(ii) in a fair and nondiscriminatory manner that complies fully with law and State policy;

(6) determining the reliability of performance measures, as defined in § 3–1001 of the State Finance and Procurement Article, identified in:

(i) the managing for results agency strategic plan developed under § 3–1002(c) of the State Finance and Procurement Article; or

(ii) the StateStat strategic plan and performance measurement report submitted to the Secretary of Budget and Management under § 3–1003(d) of the State Finance and Procurement Article; and

(7) for a performance evaluation of a local school system:

(i) evaluating whether or not the school system is complying with federal and State laws and regulations;

(ii) analyzing grading standards, graduation requirements, assessments, procurement, and equitable use of resources among the schools within the system evaluated; and

(iii) identifying instances of fraud, waste, and abuse.

§ 2-1236

(a) Subject to subsection (b) of this section, a performance evaluation conducted by the Office shall be made at the offices of the State unit, county officer or unit, corporation, association, or local school system that is subject to examination.

(b) If considered appropriate and after consultation with the unit or body being examined, the Director may authorize all or a portion of a performance evaluation to be conducted at the offices of the Office.

(c) Before the Office removes the original or only copy of any record from the premises of a State unit, county unit, or a school system, the Office shall obtain the approval of the State unit, county unit, or the school system.

§ 2-1237

(a) (1) Except as prohibited by the Internal Revenue Code, the employees and authorized representatives of the Office shall have access to and may inspect the records, including those that are confidential by law, of any unit of State government or of a person or other body receiving State funds, with respect to any matter under the jurisdiction of the Office.

(2) In conjunction with a performance evaluation authorized under this subtitle, the access required by paragraph (1) of this subsection shall include access to the records of contractors and subcontractors that perform work under State contracts.

(3) The employees or authorized representatives of the Office shall have access to and may inspect the records, including those that are confidential by law, of any local school system to undertake the performance evaluations authorized under § 2–1234 of this subtitle.

(b) Each officer or employee of the unit or body that is subject to a performance evaluation shall provide any information that the Director determines to be needed for the examination of that unit or body, or of any matter under the authority of the Office, including information that otherwise would be confidential under any provision of law.

(c) (1) The Director may issue process that requires an official of a State unit or school system that is subject to performance evaluation to produce a record that is needed for the performance evaluation.

(2) The process shall be sent to the sheriff for the county where the official is located.

(3) The sheriff promptly shall serve the process.

(4) The State shall pay the cost of process.

(5) If a person fails to comply with process issued under this subsection or fails to provide information that is requested during a performance evaluation, a circuit court may issue an order directing compliance with the process or compelling that the information requested be provided.

§ 2-1238

(a) This section does not apply to a performance evaluation conducted in accordance with the Maryland Program Evaluation Act.

(b) On the completion of each performance evaluation, the Director shall submit a full and detailed report to the Joint Audit and Evaluation Committee.

(1) a summary of significant legislative and regulatory changes;

(2) the findings of the performance evaluation;

(3) specific recommendations for making the program or activity more efficient or effective, including recommendations for consolidation or elimination of any duplicative programs or activities;

(4) an estimate of the costs or savings, if any, expected from implementing the findings and recommendations;

(5) recommended legislation needed to implement the findings and recommendations; and

(6) any response of the unit or body that is the subject of the report, subject to procedures approved by the Joint Audit and Evaluation Committee.

(d) (1) Subject to paragraph (2) of this subsection, an employee or authorized representative of the Office may submit a draft report of findings only to the Director or the Executive Director.

(2) A draft report shall be provided to the unit or body that is the subject of the report for the purpose of soliciting the response of the unit or body that is required to be included in the full and detailed report under subsection (c)(6) of this section.

(e) The Director shall send a copy of the full and detailed report to:

(1) the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Delegates;

(2) the committees of jurisdiction;

(3) members of the General Assembly, in accordance with § 2–1257 of this subtitle;

(4) the Governor;

(5) the unit or body that is the subject of the report;

(6) the Secretary of Budget and Management;

(7) the Executive Director; and

(8) any other person whom the Joint Audit and Evaluation Committee specifies.

(f) After the expiration of any period that the Joint Audit and Evaluation Committee specifies, the Director shall make a report available to the public online and under the Public Information Act.

(g) (1) The Director shall review each unit’s response and advise the unit of the results of the review.

(2) The Director shall advise the Joint Audit and Evaluation Committee when:

(i) a unit does not submit a response to a recommendation;

(ii) a unit does not indicate action, as relevant, to be taken in response to a recommendation;

(iii) a unit requests a modification of or a waiver from a recommendation; or

(iv) the response by the unit is not considered appropriate to carry out the recommendation.

(3) The Executive Director or the Joint Audit and Evaluation Committee may direct the Director to undertake a review to determine the extent to which action has been taken by a unit to implement a report recommendation.

(4) With respect to performance–related findings and recommendations, the Joint Audit and Evaluation Committee may make recommendations to the Governor or propose legislation after reviewing a unit’s response to a recommended action.

(h) (1) The Governor shall implement systems and processes to monitor the efforts of the Executive Departmental Units to address performance evaluation findings reported by the Office.

(2) Within 9 months of a performance evaluation report, any unit directed to do so shall report to the Office for each finding or recommendation in that performance evaluation report:

(i) the actions taken to address the finding or recommendation; or

(ii) a schedule for when specific actions will be implemented.

§ 2-1239

(a) (1) In addition to the reports under § 2–1238 of this subtitle, the Director shall report an apparent violation of law by a unit of State government or other body that is examined.

(2) A report under this subsection shall be submitted to:

(i) the Joint Audit and Evaluation Committee;

(ii) the Executive Director;

(iii) the unit or body that is the subject of the report; and

(iv) the Office of the Attorney General.

(b) (1) If the Director discovers any alleged criminal violation by a person during the course of a performance evaluation, the Director shall report the alleged violation to the Attorney General and the appropriate State’s Attorney.

(2) A report under this subsection shall ask the Attorney General and State’s Attorney to take appropriate action.

(4) The Attorney General may investigate and prosecute any alleged criminal violation reported under this subsection and has all the powers and duties of a State’s Attorney, including the use of a grand jury in any county, to investigate and prosecute the alleged violation.

(c) (1) The Office of the Attorney General shall respond, in writing, to a report received from the Director under this section.

(2) The response of the Attorney General shall include what actions, if any, were taken as a result of the findings of the Director.

(3) The response of the Attorney General shall be submitted to:

(i) the Joint Audit and Evaluation Committee;

(ii) the Executive Director;

(iii) the unit or body that is the subject of the report; and

(iv) the Director.

§ 2-1240

(a) Except as otherwise provided in this title, confidential information that an employee or authorized representative of the Office or the Office of Policy Analysis obtains during a performance evaluation:

(1) remains confidential; and

(2) may not be disclosed except to another employee or authorized representative of the Office or the Office of Policy Analysis.

(b) Information obtained during a performance evaluation may be provided in a format that protects the confidentiality of individuals as necessary.

(c) The Director may authorize the disclosure of confidential information obtained during a performance evaluation only to the following:

(1) another employee of the Department, with the approval of the Executive Director;

(2) federal, State, or local officials, or their auditors, who provide evidence to the Director that they are performing investigations, studies, or audits related to that same examination and who provide justification for the specific information requested; or

(3) the Joint Audit and Evaluation Committee, if necessary to assist the Committee in reviewing a report issued by the Office.

(d) Except as provided in § 2–1239 of this subtitle, if information that an employee or authorized representative obtains during a performance evaluation also is confidential under another law, the employee, authorized representative, or the Director may not include in a report or otherwise use the information in any manner that discloses the identity of any person who is the subject of the confidential information.

§ 2-1241

A person is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to a fine not exceeding $1,000 if the person:

(1) fails to comply promptly with process that the Director issues under this part; or

(2) violates any provision of § 2–1238(d) or § 2–1240 of this subtitle.

§ 2-1244

(a) In this Part VI the following words have the meanings indicated.

(b) “Director” means the Director of the Office.

§ 2-1245

There is an Office of Policy Analysis in the Department.

§ 2-1246

(a) The head of the Office is the Director.

(b) Subject to the policies and directives of the President and the Speaker and the overall supervision and control of the Executive Director, the Director shall oversee the operation of the Office.

(c) The Director shall facilitate the creation and oversee the operation of functional, subject matter, special project, and any other workgroups to achieve maximum cooperation and the greatest efficiency in the use of staff and resources in the Office.

§ 2-1247

(a) In addition to any duties set forth elsewhere, the Office shall:

(1) conduct studies, develop options, and make recommendations on fiscal matters that relate to the State budget including:

(i) taxes and revenues;

(ii) finances;

(iii) financial policies of public agencies; and

(iv) grants to individuals and private entities;

(2) conduct studies, develop options, and make recommendations on financial and other matters of the State government;

(3) conduct studies, develop options, and make recommendations on organization and management improvement in State government;

(4) study all matters that relate to the efficient and effective operation of the State government, whether or not the matter is a direct budgetary concern;

(5) propose statutory changes to effect operational economy or effective administration;

(6) perform the following duties with respect to the review of expenditures:

(i) review each item in the proposed State budget so as to be able to report on the justification of a unit for that item;

(ii) review the proposed State budget at each stage of its consideration;

(iii) during consideration of the proposed State budget, identify each of the items that:

1. provides for a new function; or

2. has been disapproved previously by the General Assembly;

(iv) evaluate each proposal of a unit of the State government for an appropriation, including any proposal that:

1. is in the proposed State budget;

2. is considered with the proposed State budget; or

3. involves State financing of a capital improvement; and

(v) evaluate the activities of each unit of the State government as these activities relate to a proposed or actual expenditure of public money;

(7) report, subject to § 2–1257 of this subtitle, on the public debt of the State, including the effect of an additional debt authorization or issue on State finances;

(8) after each session of the General Assembly, summarize the effect of the legislative program on the financial condition of the State;

(9) provide to the General Assembly and its committees information on fiscal matters;

(10) exchange, with federal and State units, information on taxation, revenues, expenditures, and related matters;

(11) conduct studies on the fiscal relationships of the State with its units and with local governments;

(12) conduct studies on the operation, administration, staff, and physical plants of each unit of the State government;

(13) as directed by the General Assembly, the Legislative Policy Committee, the Joint Audit and Evaluation Committee, or other legislative committees:

(i) subject to § 2–1257 of this subtitle, submit reports on the studies on units of the State government; and

(ii) conduct other special studies and prepare other special reports;

(14) review the financial reports received from each political subdivision in accordance with § 16–103 of the Local Government Article as to completeness and accuracy. If the report needs revision, the political subdivision shall be advised and shall submit the requested information within 15 days. The financial reports of political subdivisions shall be available for public inspection and certified copies shall be provided by the Office for a reasonable fee;

(15) subject to § 2–1257 of this subtitle, publish an annual report on the revenues and expenditures of each county, municipal corporation, and special taxing district created by law; and

(16) carry out any other functions related to budget and fiscal affairs required by the Executive Director.

(b) The Executive Director shall dedicate an appropriate number of employees of the Department and an adequate level of Department resources to the year–round performance of the following functions:

(1) analyzing the State budget;

(2) forecasting trends in the State budget;

(3) identifying significant financial policies of public agencies in the State budget;

(4) reviewing proposed amendments to the State budget approved by the General Assembly; and

(5) conducting revenue forecasts.

§ 2-1248

In addition to any duties set forth elsewhere, the Office shall:

(1) on request of a member of the General Assembly, analyze and report on:

(i) the laws of any state on a specific subject and all of the available information about the practical operation and effect of those laws; and

(ii) the acts and records of any state;

(2) compile information on and analyze any matter that is the subject of proposed legislation;

(3) on request of a member of the General Assembly, prepare or help to prepare a bill or resolution that, unless the member specifies otherwise, conforms to the style manual of the Office;

(4) provide analyses of proposed and emergency regulations of Executive Branch agencies;

(5) make recommendations for the reclassification, rearrangement, renumbering, rewording, and other formal revision of the public general laws of Maryland;

(6) make recommendations for appropriate systems to collect and publish:

(i) the public local laws;

(ii) executive orders; and

(iii) the regulations of units of the Executive Branch of the State government;

(7) complete the formal revision of statutory law for the General Assembly by preparing and submitting to the General Assembly recommendations for the repeal or modification of statutes that are obsolete, inconsistent with another statute, unconstitutional, or otherwise in need of formal revision;

(8) correct manifest spelling, grammatical, or clerical errors or errors of addition or omission in the Code maintained by the Department, and include any such correction in the Annual Corrective Bill for ratification by the General Assembly;

(9) maintain the clarity, simplicity, and consistency of style of statutory law;

(10) have a style manual for statutory law;

(11) include in the style manual a drafting rule that requires, to the extent practicable, the use of words that are neutral as to gender except for a subject matter that specifically applies only to one gender and except for a name or organizational title;

(12) assign a chapter number to each bill, and a joint resolution number to each joint resolution, that, by operation of law, becomes law without the signature of the Chief Executive, and notify the Secretary of State in writing of these assignments; and

(13) carry out any other function related to legal affairs required by the Executive Director.

§ 2-1249

(a) In addition to any other duties set forth elsewhere, the Office shall:

(1) subject to subsection (b) of this section, prepare analyses of the fiscal, legal, and policy impact of proposed legislation;

(2) research and prepare comprehensive assessments and evaluations of issues of concern to the General Assembly; and

(3) carry out any other function related to research services required by the Executive Director.

(b) The Office is not required to prepare an analysis of an enabling act, as defined in § 8–101 of the State Finance and Procurement Article, if:

(1) a financial sheet, in the form that the Office requires, is submitted with the legislation; and

(2) the Office publishes the financial sheet on the website of the Maryland General Assembly.

(c) (1) In order to facilitate the preparation of the analyses required under subsection (a)(1) of this section, a unit of State government shall respond to a request from the Office for information on the fiscal and operational impact of proposed legislation within 3 business days after receipt of the request.

(2) The Office may waive the requirement under paragraph (1) of this subsection on a case–by–case basis.

§ 2-1250

In addition to any other duties set forth elsewhere, the Office shall:

(1) provide professional staffing services, as required by the Executive Director, to any standing committee, statutory committee, or special joint or unicameral committee or subcommittee of the General Assembly;

(2) with the consent of the President and the Speaker, provide professional staffing services, as required by the Executive Director, to any joint legislative and executive body; and

(3) carry out any other function related to committee staffing services required by the Executive Director.

§ 2-1251

In addition to any other duties set forth elsewhere, the Office shall:

(1) provide library and information services to the General Assembly and the general public;

(2) index and preserve all information prepared as a result of the provisions of § 2–1248 of this subtitle; and

(3) carry out any other function related to library and public information services required by the Executive Director.

§ 2-1254

(a) (1) After each regular session, the Department shall compile and index:

(i) the laws that are enacted during that session;

(ii) the executive orders that have been adopted pursuant to Article II, § 24 of the Maryland Constitution since the last compilation; and

(iii) the certificates of the State Board of Elections as to the referendum vote on a law, if the vote has not been published previously.

(2) After each special session, the Department shall compile and index the laws that are enacted during that session.

(b) (1) After completion of the compilation and index, the Department shall deliver copies of the laws, executive orders adopted pursuant to Article II, § 24 of the Maryland Constitution, certificates, and titles to the printer who is designated to print the session laws.

(2) The printer shall print promptly:

(i) the documents delivered under this section; and

(ii) with the compilation for a regular session, the statement of receipts and expenditures of public money delivered under § 2–103 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.

(3) The printer shall deliver the volumes to the Executive Director.

(4) The Department shall publish other executive orders delivered to it in accordance with § 3–406(b) of this article.

(1) create and maintain, in the form of a statutory database, a code comprising the public general laws of the State; and

(2) maintain the structural integrity and textual accuracy of that code.

§ 2-1255

(a) The Department shall sell, exchange, or otherwise distribute bound volumes of the laws, the Senate journal, and the House journal.

(b) Distribution under this section shall include provision of 1 copy of a volume to each public, circulating library or library association that requests the volume if, when the request is made, the Department has at least 26 copies of the requested volume.

§ 2-1256

The Department shall:

(1) keep a current list of the public local laws of the State;

(2) keep the list accessible to the members of the General Assembly at all times; and

(3) subject to § 2–1257 of this subtitle, annually submit the list to the General Assembly.

§ 2-1257

(a) In this section, “publication” includes any report, study, or notification.

(b) For each publication that an official or unit of the State government intends to distribute or submit to the General Assembly or to any committee, staff agency, or employee of the General Assembly, the official or unit shall:

(1) submit one copy to the President and one copy to the Speaker in the format requested by the President and the Speaker;

(2) submit five printed copies to the library of the Department; and

(3) in the case of a publication to be distributed to a committee of the General Assembly:

(i) unless the publication is being submitted to the committee as specifically required by law, obtain approval for the distribution from the committee chair; and

(ii) comply with the distribution requirements of the committee.

(1) shall submit to the library of the Department, in addition to the copies of a publication required under subsection (b)(2) of this section, any additional copies of the publication requested by the library on behalf of a member of the General Assembly; and

(2) may give a publication directly to a member of the General Assembly only if:

(i) the President and the Speaker have given written approval for distribution of the publication to each member of the General Assembly; or

(ii) the member asks for the publication.

(d) To assist the Department in carrying out its duties under subsection (f) of this section, each publication submitted to the General Assembly or to any committee, staff agency, or employee of the General Assembly in fulfillment of a duty imposed by law shall specify the law under which the publication is being submitted.

(e) The Department shall:

(1) keep a list of the publications of the officials and units;

(2) periodically send the list to each member of the General Assembly; and

(3) on request of a member of the General Assembly, obtain a publication of an official or unit for the member.

(f) The library of the Department shall:

(1) catalog and preserve the publications that officials and units submit as required by law; and

(2) collect, catalog, and preserve any other publication that the Department considers necessary or that the Department is directed by the President or the Speaker to collect, catalog, and preserve.

§ 2-1258

(a) (1) (i) On request of a member of the General Assembly, the Department shall provide the member with an annotated code of the public general laws of Maryland that is published by a publisher and produced in a format to be selected by the Executive Director.

(ii) An annotated code shall be provided to a member under this subsection only during the term of the member, at the end of which the annotated code shall be returned to the Department.

(iii) The Department shall keep the annotated code provided under this subsection current.

(2) On request, the Department shall provide one additional copy of an annotated code of Maryland to each:

(i) presiding officer;

(ii) pro tempore officer;

(iii) chair of a standing committee;

(iv) majority leader; and

(v) minority leader.

(b) A member shall return to the Department the code provided by the Department on or before the expiration of the member’s final term of office. If a member resigns or is removed from office before the expiration of the member’s term, the member shall promptly return the code to the Department.

§ 2-1259

The Department shall:

(1) annually make:

(i) a list that includes the name, position, term of office, and salary of each civil officer whom the Governor appointed during the preceding calendar year; and

(ii) a list that includes the name, position, term of office, and salary of each civil officer whose term expires during the current calendar year;

(2) (i) send a copy of each list to each member of the General Assembly; and

(ii) make the lists available to any person who requests them; and

(3) include on the lists only civil officers whom the Governor appoints, subject to the approval of the Senate or the House of Delegates.

§ 2-1260

The Department is the sole determiner of the form of public records released pursuant to Title 10, Subtitle 6, Part III of this article.

§ 2-1261

(a) On or before October 31 each year, the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services shall submit to the Department, in the form of electronic raw data, de–identified and disaggregated by age, race, and sex, information required to be reported to the Governor in accordance with § 3–207(a)(2) of the Correctional Services Article.

(b) (1) On or before November 30 each year, the Department of State Police shall submit to the Department, in a format that the Executive Director requires, the information collected in accordance with § 2–307(a)(2) of the Public Safety Article.

(2) On or before August 1, 2022, the Department of State Police and the Department shall enter into a memorandum of understanding, the terms of which shall include:

(i) a data sharing agreement for all information collected in accordance with § 2–307 of the Public Safety Article;

(ii) a work plan for access to collected data for research and statistical analysis purposes;

(iii) a listing of all data fields collected for the Crime in Maryland Report and the Hate Bias Report; and

(iv) an update on the status of compliance with the National Incident–Based Reporting System by law enforcement agencies in the State.

(c) On or before October 31 each year, the Maryland Police Training and Standards Commission shall submit to the Department, in the form of electronic raw data, de–identified and disaggregated by agency and incident:

(1) information required to be reported to the General Assembly in accordance with § 3–514(b)(1) of the Public Safety Article; and

(2) information required to be collected in accordance with § 3–207(b) of the Public Safety Article.

(d) On or before October 31 each year, the Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention and Policy shall submit to the Department, in the form of electronic raw data, de–identified and disaggregated by incident, information collected in accordance with:

(1) § 3–528 of the Public Safety Article; and

(2) § 25–113 of the Transportation Article.

(e) On or before August 1, 2022, the Department of Juvenile Services and the Department shall enter into a memorandum of understanding, the terms of which shall include:

(1) the provision of various custom reports to the Department, including information, de–identified and disaggregated by juvenile, relating to the juvenile’s record of:

(i) delinquency;

(ii) court actions;

(iii) supervision; and

(iv) placement; and

(2) the development of a work plan by the Department of Juvenile Services regarding efforts to include specific race and ethnicity data for individual juveniles.

Subtitle 15

§ 2-1501

(a) In this Part I of this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.

(b) “Bill” includes a joint resolution.

(c) “Mandate” means a directive in a bill requiring a local government unit to perform a task or assume a responsibility that has a discernible fiscal impact on the local government unit.

(d) “Mandated appropriation” means a requirement in a bill that the Governor provide a certain level of funding in the annual budget bill for a specific program in the State.

§ 2-1502

(a) (1) In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.

(2) “Department” means the Department of Legislative Services.

(3) “Prefile” means to direct the Department, before a regular session of the General Assembly, to file a bill for introduction during that session.

(b) A member or member-elect of the General Assembly may prefile a bill, as provided in this section.

(i) a bill may be prefiled only by an individual elected or re–elected to the General Assembly at that election;

(ii) the deadline for directing the Department to file a bill for introduction is December 10;

(iii) the deadline for requesting the Department to prepare a bill for prefiling is November 20; and

(iv) an individual first elected at that election may not request the Department to prepare a bill until after the election.

(2) In any other year, a member may prefile a bill at any regular session by:

(i) on or before the preceding November 1, requesting the Department to prepare the bill; and

(ii) on or before the preceding November 20, directing the Department, in writing, to file the bill for introduction.

(d) A directive to file a bill for introduction shall be in writing and shall state the name of each sponsor of the bill.

(e) (1) On the first day of each regular session, the Department shall send to the Secretary of the Senate and the Chief Clerk of the House, as appropriate, copies of each bill, in the form that the Senate rules set for introduction in the Senate or that the House rules set for introduction in the House.

(2) Each bill that is sent under this subsection shall be considered as filed for introduction.

§ 2-1503

A bill that a standing committee recommends as a result of its work when the General Assembly is not in session shall be introduced with the standing committee as sponsor.

§ 2-1504

(a) For each regular or special session of the General Assembly, the Department of Legislative Services shall prepare and distribute, in serial order:

(1) a synopsis of each Senate bill that is introduced; and

(2) a synopsis of each House bill that is introduced.

(b) If the Department determines that a bill imposes a mandate on a local government unit, the synopsis shall include a statement that “This bill imposes a mandate on a local government unit.”.

(c) If the Department determines that a bill requires a mandated appropriation, the synopsis shall include a statement that “This bill requires a mandated appropriation in the annual budget bill.”.

§ 2-1505

(a) Except as otherwise provided in this section, a committee may not vote on a bill unless:

(1) a fiscal note accompanies the bill; and

(2) if the bill affects the funding of a State pension system, an actuarial analysis of the bill is attached to or summarized in the note or the analysis is waived.

(b) (1) If a bill affects the funding of a State pension system and the standing committee to which the bill is referred determines that the fiscal impact on the State warrants an actuarial analysis of the bill, the standing committee shall ask the Department of Legislative Services to obtain the actuarial analysis.

(2) The standing committee may waive the actuarial analysis if the standing committee certifies that prompt action on the bill is needed to conduct legislative business.

(c) (1) The Executive Director of the Department of Legislative Services shall have that Department prepare a fiscal note for each bill.

(2) If the chair of the committee to which a bill is referred certifies that prompt committee action on the bill is needed to conduct legislative business and, before the Department prepares the fiscal note for the bill, holds a hearing on the bill, the Department shall prepare the note as soon after the hearing as possible.

(3) When a standing committee asks for an actuarial analysis of a bill that affects a State pension system, the Department of Legislative Services shall:

(i) obtain the analysis; and

(ii) summarize the analysis in the fiscal note or attach the analysis to the note.

(4) The Department of Legislative Services shall send a copy of a fiscal note for a bill to the committee to which the bill is referred and to the primary sponsor of the bill.

(d) Upon request of the Department of Legislative Services, a unit of State or local government promptly shall provide any information requested by the Department for preparing a fiscal note.

(e) (1) A fiscal note for a bill shall contain an estimate of the fiscal impact of the bill on the revenues and expenditures of the State government and of local governments:

(i) during the year in which the bill is to become effective and the next 4 years after that year; and

(ii) if the full fiscal impact of a bill is not expected to occur during those years, during each year until and the first year during which that impact is expected to occur.

(2) If a bill, as introduced or amended, imposes a mandate on a local government unit, the fiscal note for the bill shall contain:

(i) a statement that clearly identifies the imposition of the mandate; and

(ii) an estimate of the fiscal impact of the mandate and, if applicable and if data is available, the effect on local property tax rates.

(3) If a bill, as introduced or amended, requires a mandated appropriation, the fiscal note for the bill shall contain:

(i) a statement that clearly identifies the imposition of the mandated appropriation; and

(ii) an estimate of the fiscal impact of the mandated appropriation.

(4) A fiscal note shall identify the sources of the information that the Department used in preparing the estimates of fiscal impact.

(f) As soon as possible after the adoption of an amendment that changes the fiscal impact of a bill, the Department of Legislative Services shall:

(1) prepare a revised fiscal note for the bill; and

(2) send the revised note:

(i) to the chair of the committee to which the bill is referred in the house of origin;

(ii) if the bill has reached the opposite house, to the chair of the committee to which the bill is referred in that house;

(iii) if the bill is in the custody of either the Secretary of the Senate or the Chief Clerk of the House, to that officer; and

(iv) to the primary sponsor of the bill.

(g) (1) The Department of Legislative Services shall keep a copy of each fiscal note for 3 years after preparation of the note.

(2) The copies shall be reasonably available for public inspection.

(h) Fiscal notes need not be published in the Senate journal or House journal.

(i) (1) A bill may be introduced without a fiscal note accompanying the bill.

(2) The validity of an enactment is not affected by the presence, absence, or content of the fiscal note.

(j) (1) (i) In its summary report of legislation enacted by the General Assembly that has a fiscal impact, the Department of Legislative Services shall include a list of legislation that:

1. affects local government units; or

2. requires a mandated appropriation in the annual budget bill.

(ii) In the list of legislation described in subparagraph (i)1 of this paragraph, the Department of Legislative Services shall indicate which legislation imposes mandates on local government units.

(2) Where applicable and if data is available, the report shall indicate:

(i) the fiscal impact of the bill on local government units;

(ii) the impact of the bill on local property tax rates;

(iii) the cumulative fiscal impact of all legislation imposing mandates on more than one local government unit; and

(iv) the cumulative fiscal impact of all legislation requiring mandated appropriations.

§ 2-1505.1

(a) (1) In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.

(2) “Economic impact analysis” means an estimate of the cost or the economic benefit to small businesses that may be affected by a proposed bill introduced at a session of the General Assembly.

(3) “Economic impact analysis rating” means an estimate that a proposed bill will have:

(i) minimal or no economic impact on small businesses; or

(ii) meaningful economic impact on small businesses.

(4) “Small business” means a corporation, partnership, sole proprietorship, or other business entity, including its affiliates, that:

(i) is independently owned and operated;

(ii) is not dominant in its field; and

(iii) employs 50 or fewer full-time employees.

(b) (1) An economic impact analysis rating and an economic impact analysis, as appropriate, shall be prepared by the appropriate Executive Branch agency for each bill that is introduced at the request of the administration or a department, agency, or commission of the Executive Branch of State government.

(2) A copy of the economic impact analysis rating and the economic impact analysis required under this subsection shall be submitted by the Governor’s office:

(i) to the Department of Legislative Services within a reasonable time frame prior to the hearing on the bill to allow the Department to comment on the economic impact analysis rating and the economic impact analysis; and

(ii) to the committee to which the bill is referred prior to the hearing on the bill.

(c) (1) An economic impact analysis rating and an economic impact analysis, as appropriate, shall be prepared by the Department of Legislative Services for each bill that is introduced by a member of the General Assembly.

(2) A copy of the economic impact analysis rating and the economic impact analysis required under this subsection shall be submitted by the Department of Legislative Services:

(i) to the primary sponsor of the bill; and

(ii) to the committee to which the bill is referred prior to the hearing on the bill.

(d) (1) If the appropriate Executive Branch agency or the Department of Legislative Services determines that a bill will have minimal or no economic impact on small businesses, the agency or Department shall indicate that determination by a brief written statement.

(2) If the appropriate Executive Branch agency or the Department of Legislative Services determines that a bill will have a meaningful economic impact on small businesses, the agency or Department shall develop a complete written economic impact analysis.

(3) (i) If the appropriate Executive Branch agency or the Department of Legislative Services determines that a bill will have a meaningful economic impact on small businesses and is unable to provide a complete written economic impact analysis, the agency or Department shall provide a written explanation of why the agency determined that the bill will have a meaningful economic impact.

(ii) The explanation may identify the impact in general terms and need not quantify the specific economic impact.

(e) The economic impact analysis rating and the economic impact analysis required under this section shall include estimates directly relating to the following factors, as appropriate:

(1) cost of providing goods and services;

(2) effect on the workforce;

(3) effect on the cost of housing;

(4) efficiency in production and marketing;

(5) capital investment, taxation, competition, and economic development; and

(6) consumer choice.

(f) (1) The Executive Branch agency or the Department of Legislative Services preparing the economic impact analysis rating and the economic impact analysis required under this section shall consult with, as appropriate:

(i) other units of State government;

(ii) units of local government; and

(iii) business, trade, consumer, labor, and other groups impacted by or having an interest in the legislation.

(2) On request of the Executive Director of the Department of Legislative Services, a unit of the State or a local government shall provide the Department with assistance or information in the preparation of an economic impact analysis rating and economic impact analysis.

(g) (1) The Department of Legislative Services may include an economic impact analysis rating and economic impact analysis prepared by the Department or by the appropriate Executive Branch agency as part of a fiscal note.

(2) The Department of Legislative Services may comment on the economic impact analysis rating and economic impact analysis prepared by the appropriate Executive Branch agency.

(h) The Department of Legislative Services may revise the economic impact analysis rating and economic impact analysis consistent with an amended version of a bill.

(i) (1) The Department of Legislative Services shall keep a copy of each economic impact analysis rating and economic impact analysis for 3 years after preparation of the rating or the analysis.

(2) The copies shall be reasonably available for public inspection.

(j) Economic impact analysis ratings and economic impact analyses need not be published in the Senate journal or House journal.

(k) The validity of an enactment of a bill is not affected by the presence, absence, or content of an economic impact analysis rating or an economic impact analysis.

§ 2-1505.2

(a) (1) In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.

(2) “Committee” means the Joint Committee on Administrative, Executive, and Legislative Review.

(3) “Economic impact analysis” means an estimate of the cost or the economic benefit to small businesses that may be affected by a regulation proposed by an agency pursuant to Title 10, Subtitle 1 of this article.

(4) “Economic impact analysis rating” means an estimate that a proposed regulation will have:

(i) minimal or no economic impact on small businesses; or

(ii) meaningful economic impact on small businesses.

(5) “Small business” means a corporation, partnership, sole proprietorship, or other business entity, including its affiliates, that:

(i) is independently owned and operated;

(ii) is not dominant in its field; and

(iii) employs 50 or fewer full-time employees.

(b) (1) An economic impact analysis rating and an economic impact analysis, as appropriate, shall be prepared by the appropriate Executive Branch agency for each regulation that the agency proposes for adoption pursuant to Title 10, Subtitle 1 of this article.

(2) A copy of the economic impact analysis rating and the economic impact analysis required under this subsection shall be submitted by the appropriate agency:

(i) to the Department of Legislative Services no later than the time the agency submits the regulation to the Committee to allow the Department to comment on the economic impact analysis rating and the economic impact analysis; and

(ii) to the Committee at the time the agency submits the regulation to the Committee.

(c) (1) If the appropriate Executive Branch agency or the Department of Legislative Services determines that a regulation will have minimal or no economic impact on small businesses, the agency or Department shall indicate that determination by a brief written statement.

(2) If the appropriate Executive Branch agency or the Department of Legislative Services determines that a regulation will have a meaningful economic impact on small businesses, the agency or Department shall develop a complete written economic impact analysis.

(3) (i) If the appropriate Executive Branch agency or the Department determines that a regulation will have a meaningful economic impact on small businesses and is unable to provide a complete written economic impact analysis, the agency or Department shall provide a written explanation of why the agency determined that the regulation will have a meaningful economic impact.

(ii) The explanation may identify the impact in general terms and need not quantify the specific economic impact.

(d) The economic impact analysis rating and the economic impact analysis required under this section shall include:

(1) estimates directly relating to the following factors, as appropriate:

(i) cost of providing goods and services;

(ii) effect on the workforce;

(iii) effect on the cost of housing;

(iv) efficiency in production and marketing;

(v) capital investment, taxation, competition, and economic development; and

(vi) consumer choice; and

(2) a certification stating, after posting the regulation or scope of the regulation as required by § 10–110(d)(3)(vii) of this article, whether the agency has received notice of whether any existing regulation of a comparable nature that is at least as stringent as the proposed regulation has been adopted by a unit of a local government.

(e) (1) The Executive Branch agency or the Department of Legislative Services preparing the economic impact analysis rating and the economic impact analysis required under this section shall consult with, as appropriate:

(i) other units of State government;

(ii) units of local government; and

(iii) business, trade, consumer, labor, and other groups impacted by or having an interest in the regulation.

(3) If the promulgating unit certifies, after posting the regulation or scope of the regulation as required by § 10–110(d)(3)(vii) of this article, that the unit has received notice of and determined that an existing regulation of a comparable nature that is at least as stringent as the proposed regulation has been adopted by any unit of local government, the unit may include in the unit’s proposed regulation a statement that compliance with the local regulation will constitute compliance with the proposed regulation.

(f) The Department of Legislative Services shall:

(1) comment on the economic impact analysis rating and economic impact analysis prepared by the appropriate Executive Branch agency; and

(2) transmit its comment to the Committee.

(g) The Department of Legislative Services shall revise the economic impact analysis rating and economic impact analysis consistent with an amended version of a regulation.

(h) (1) The Department of Legislative Services shall keep a copy of each economic impact analysis rating and economic impact analysis for 3 years after preparation of the rating or the analysis.

(2) The copies shall be reasonably available for public inspection.

(i) Economic impact analysis ratings and economic impact analyses shall be published in the Maryland Register at the same time as:

(1) a notice of proposed adoption of a regulation is published in the Maryland Register; or

(2) a notice of emergency adoption for a regulation is published in the Maryland Register.

(j) The validity of an enactment of a regulation is not affected by the presence, absence, or content of an economic impact analysis rating or an economic impact analysis.

(k) (1) The Department of Budget and Management shall enter into an agreement with an appropriate entity to provide training to promulgating Executive Branch agencies on the preparation of the economic impact analyses required under this section.

(2) The training required to be provided under paragraph (1) of this subsection shall be provided at least once every 2 years.

§ 2-1506

When the General Assembly passes a bill, it shall be returned to the house of origin.

§ 2-1508

In this Part II of this subtitle, “bill” does not include a joint resolution.

§ 2-1509

(a) As soon as practicable after a bill is returned to the house of origin, the presiding officer shall have the State seal affixed to the bill and shall present the bill to the Governor or a designee of the Governor.

(b) The presiding officer who presents the bill or the clerk designated by the presiding officer shall:

(1) in the presence of the individual to whom the bill is presented, make and sign, on the back of the bill, a written memorandum of the day and hour of presentment; and

(2) have a corresponding entry made in the Senate journal or the House journal.

§ 2-1510

(a) The Governor may designate another individual to receive bills while the Governor is ill or necessarily absent from the seat of the State government.

(b) A designation under this section:

(1) shall be in writing;

(2) shall be sent to the presiding officer of the Senate and the presiding officer of the House;

(3) on receipt by those officers, shall be entered in full in the Senate journal and the House journal; and

(4) is effective during the period that the Governor specifies.

§ 2-1511

(a) The Governor shall deliver to the Secretary of State or a designee in the Secretary’s office:

(1) each bill that the Governor approves, immediately after the approval;

(2) each bill that becomes law without the approval of the Governor, on the day the bill becomes law;

(3) each bill that the Governor vetoes; and

(4) each executive order effective under Article II, § 24 of the Maryland Constitution.

(b) (1) Subject to § 2–1248 of this title, the Secretary of State shall assign a chapter number to each bill that becomes law and to each executive order issued pursuant to Article II, § 24 of the Maryland Constitution.

(2) Chapter numbers shall be assigned in the order in which the bills become law.

§ 2-1512

(a) The Secretary of State shall keep, for each session, a permanent record of the bills and executive orders that the Governor delivers to the Secretary under this subtitle. The record shall be known as the record of chapter numbers.

(b) (1) The Secretary of State shall enter, in the record, the chapter number of each bill that becomes law and each executive order.

(2) Near the chapter number, the Secretary of State shall enter:

(i) the Senate bill number, the House bill number, or the executive order number;

(ii) a brief summary of the subject of the bill or executive order;

(iii) as to a bill, the date of its presentment to the Governor; and

(iv) the date on which the bill or order was approved by the Governor or otherwise became law.

(c) (1) After the last chapter number, the Secretary of State shall enter, by Senate bill number or House bill number, a list of the bills that the Governor vetoed.

(2) Near the bill number, the Secretary of State shall enter:

(i) a brief summary of the subject of the bill;

(ii) the date of presentment to the Governor; and

(iii) the date of veto.

§ 2-1513

(a) The Secretary of State shall deliver to the clerk of the Supreme Court of Maryland each bill that becomes law.

(b) With respect to bills that the Governor vetoes, the Secretary of State shall deliver:

(1) to the house of origin, each bill that the Maryland Constitution requires to be returned to that house; and

(2) to the State Archives, every other bill.

§ 2-1514

(a) If the General Assembly adopts a joint resolution that asks the Governor or an official of a unit of the Executive Branch of the State government to take any action, the Governor or the official shall give the Legislative Policy Committee and each sponsor of the resolution notice of the action taken under the resolution.

(b) Notice under this section shall be given on or before any date established by the resolution.

Subtitle 16

§ 2-1601

(a) In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.

(b) (1) “Hearing” means a meeting that an investigating committee holds, during an investigatory proceeding, to take testimony or to receive other evidence.

(2) “Hearing” does not include a preliminary conference or interview at which testimony is not taken under oath.

(c) “Investigating committee” means any of the following bodies that may obtain, for the use of the General Assembly, information on a specific subject by compelling the attendance and testimony of witnesses or the production of books, documents, papers, and records:

(1) a standing committee or a subcommittee of a standing committee;

(2) a joint committee of the Senate and the House or a subcommittee of a joint committee; or

(3) the Legislative Policy Committee or any of its committees or subcommittees.

§ 2-1602

(a) This subtitle establishes a code of fair procedures for the operation of an investigating committee so that it may hold hearings and otherwise properly carry out its powers and duties fairly, impartially, and consistently with:

(1) the constitutional rights of a person who is involved in a proceeding of the investigating committee; and

(2) the public good.

(b) This subtitle does not limit the acquisition of information or evidence by an investigating committee through a lawful means other than as provided in this subtitle.

(c) This subtitle does not limit the authority of a committee of the General Assembly or any subcommittee of a committee of the General Assembly to exercise the power to administer oaths and subpoena witnesses and records as otherwise authorized by law.

§ 2-1603

(a) An investigating committee may be established only by a resolution of the Senate or the House.

(b) The resolution shall state the investigating committee’s:

(1) purpose;

(2) powers;

(3) duties;

(4) duration;

(5) subject matter;

(6) scope of investigatory authority; and

(7) size.

§ 2-1604

An investigating committee shall have at least 5 members.

§ 2-1605

(a) An investigating committee shall have the chair and vice chair who:

(1) are appointed by the resolution that establishes the investigating committee; or

(2) if the resolution does not appoint these officers, are elected by affirmative vote of a majority of all of the members of the investigating committee.

(b) The rules of an investigating committee shall provide for the selection of a presiding officer to act if the chair and vice chair are absent or unable to act.

(i) the chair of the investigating committee;

(ii) if the chair is absent or otherwise unable to preside, the vice chair; or

(iii) if the chair and vice chair are absent or otherwise unable to preside, the individual who is selected under the rules of the investigating committee.

(2) At a hearing, the presiding officer:

(i) shall examine the witnesses or supervise the examination by any other member of the investigating committee or by staff who are authorized to examine witnesses; and

(ii) may direct a witness to answer a relevant question or to provide a relevant book, document, or paper.

§ 2-1606

(a) (1) A majority of the full authorized membership of an investigating committee is a quorum.

(2) Unless there is a quorum, an investigating committee may not act at any meeting or hold a hearing.

(3) Unless a greater vote expressly is required in this subtitle, an investigating committee may act by a majority vote of its members who are present at a meeting and vote.

(b) Subject to the requirements of law and any rule of the General Assembly, an investigating committee may employ necessary staff for which funds are available.

§ 2-1607

(a) An investigating committee may exercise its powers:

(1) when the General Assembly is in session; and

(2) when the General Assembly is not in session, if the investigating committee is authorized to do so:

(i) by law;

(ii) by the resolution that establishes the investigating committee; or

(iii) by the law or resolution from which the investigating committee derives its investigatory powers.

(b) (1) An investigating committee shall adopt rules that govern its procedures, including the conduct of hearings.

(2) The rules may not be inconsistent with law or any applicable rules of the General Assembly.

§ 2-1608

(a) (1) By a majority vote of all of the members of an investigating committee, the investigating committee may issue a subpoena that requires the appearance of a person, the production of relevant records, and the giving of relevant testimony.

(2) A request to appear, appearance, or submission of evidence does not limit the subpoena power of the investigating committee.

(b) The subpoena shall be served:

(1) in the manner provided by law for service of a subpoena in a civil action;

(2) at least 7 days before the time that the subpoena sets for appearance or production of records; and

(3) with the following documents:

(i) a copy of the resolution that establishes the investigating committee;

(ii) a copy of the rules of the investigating committee;

(iii) a statement of the subject of the investigation or inquiry of the investigating committee; and

(iv) if the subpoena requires the appearance of a person, notice that counsel may accompany the person.

(c) A person who is subpoenaed to appear at a hearing is entitled to receive the fees and allowances that are provided for a person who is subpoenaed by a circuit court.

(d) (1) A person may be held in contempt if the person unjustifiably:

(i) fails or refuses to comply with a subpoena for appearance;

(ii) appears but fails or refuses to testify under oath; or

(iii) unless the directive is overruled by a majority vote of the members of the investigating committee who are present at the hearing, disobeys a directive of the presiding officer at the hearing to answer a relevant question or to produce a relevant book, document, or paper that has been subpoenaed.

(2) If an investigating committee fails, in any material respect, to meet the requirements of this subtitle and the person who is subpoenaed is prejudiced by the failure:

(i) the person need not comply; and

(ii) the failure is a complete defense in a proceeding against the person for contempt or other punishment.

(e) (1) By a majority vote of all of the members of an investigating committee, the investigating committee may apply for a contempt citation:

(i) when the General Assembly is not in session, to a circuit court; and

(ii) when the General Assembly is in session:

1. to the General Assembly;

2. to the Senate, if the Senate established the investigating committee; or

3. to the House, if the House established the investigating committee.

(2) The General Assembly, the Senate, or the House:

(i) may consider the application as though the alleged contempt had been committed in or against that body; and

(ii) in addition to any penalty that a court imposes, may impose any other punishment that the body has the inherent power to impose.

§ 2-1609

(a) An investigating committee may hold any hearing that the investigating committee considers appropriate, at the times and places that it determines.

(b) (1) The rules of an investigating committee shall provide for written notice of a hearing to be given to the members:

(i) at least 3 days before the hearing, if it is held when the General Assembly is in session; and

(ii) at least 7 days before the hearing, if it is held when the General Assembly is not in session.

(2) Notice of a hearing shall include a statement of the subject matter.

(3) A hearing and action that is taken at a hearing are not invalid only because notice is not given as provided in this subsection.

(c) A hearing shall be public unless, by a majority vote of all of the members of the investigating committee, the investigating committee determines otherwise.

(d) (1) With the consent of a majority of the members of an investigating committee who are present at a hearing, a witness or counsel for the witness may submit to the investigating committee a sworn statement that is relevant to the purpose, subject, and scope of the investigation or inquiry.

(2) If an investigating committee believes that a person may be affected adversely because the person is named or otherwise identified at a hearing, the person may:

(i) on request of the person or a member of the investigating committee, testify in the person’s behalf; or

(ii) with the consent of the investigating committee, submit a sworn statement or other documentary evidence.

(3) With the consent of a majority of the members of the investigating committee, any other person may testify or submit a sworn statement or other documentary evidence.

(e) (1) At a hearing, a person shall testify under oath unless, by a majority vote of the members who are present at the hearing, the investigating committee waives the requirement for the person.

(2) Any member of the investigating committee may administer an oath.

(f) (1) Counsel may accompany a witness at a hearing and advise the witness of the rights of the witness.

(2) An investigating committee may set limits to prevent obstruction of or interference with the orderly conduct of the hearing.

(g) (1) A witness at a hearing or counsel for the witness may submit to the investigating committee a proposed question, for the witness or any other witness.

(2) The investigating committee shall ask the question if the investigating committee considers the question appropriate to the subject matter of the hearing.

(h) (1) An investigating committee shall have a record made of each hearing.

(2) The record shall include:

(i) each ruling of the presiding officer;

(ii) each question of the investigating committee and its staff;

(iii) the testimony and responses of each witness;

(iv) each sworn statement or other documentary evidence that the investigating committee permits a person to submit; and

(v) any other matter that the investigating committee or its chair directs.

(3) The investigating committee shall provide to a witness a certified transcript of the witness’ testimony, if the witness asks in advance and pays for the transcript.

(i) (1) This subsection does not:

(i) prevent the disclosure of evidence by the person who gives evidence, if only that person could claim a privilege against disclosure; or

(ii) limit any power of the General Assembly, the Senate, or the House to discipline a member or employee or to impose a penalty if a State’s Attorney or court does not act under this subsection.

(2) If a hearing of an investigating committee is closed to the public, testimony and other evidence that is given at the hearing may not be made public unless, by a majority vote of all of the members of the investigating committee, the investigating committee permits disclosure and specifies the form and manner of disclosure.

(3) On application of a person who claims to have been injured or prejudiced by an unauthorized disclosure or on motion of a State’s Attorney, the State’s Attorney may begin proceedings for imposition of penalties under this subsection.

(4) A person who violates any provision of this subsection is subject to a fine not exceeding $1,000 or imprisonment not exceeding 30 days or both.

Subtitle 17

§ 2-1701

(a) A person who is not a member of the General Assembly may not operate an electrical voting machine to vote on a question before the Senate or the House.

(b) In addition to any penalty that the Senate or the House sets, a person who violates any provision of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment for not more than 5 years.

§ 2-1702

(a) A person may not willfully disrupt, interfere with, attempt to disrupt, or attempt to interfere with a session, meeting, or proceeding of the General Assembly, the Senate, or the House or any of their committees, by:

(1) making, alone or with another person, a noise that tends to be disruptive;

(2) using abusive or obscene language;

(3) making an obscene gesture;

(4) engaging in violent, tumultuous, or threatening behavior;

(5) refusing to comply with the lawful order of the police to disperse; or

(6) doing any other disruptive or interfering act.

(b) A person may not picket willfully in a building where:

(1) the Senate or the House has a chamber;

(2) a member of the General Assembly has an official office; or

(3) a committee of the General Assembly, the Senate, or the House has an office.

(c) A person may not prevent or attempt to prevent, willfully and with force, the performance of a function, power, or duty by a member, officer, or employee of the General Assembly, the Senate, or the House or any of their committees.

(d) A person may not:

(1) willfully and without legal authority, obtain, withhold, destroy, deface, or alter an official document or record of the General Assembly, the Senate, or the House or any of their committees; or

(2) without legal authority, possess, withhold, destroy, or deface real or personal property that the General Assembly, the Senate, or the House or any of their committees owns or uses.

(e) (1) This subsection does not apply to:

(i) a law enforcement officer of any state or of the federal government who is carrying out duties of the office; or

(ii) a person whom the officer summons to help in making an arrest or in preserving the peace.

(2) A person may not willfully bring an assault weapon or other firearm or destructive device, as defined in § 4-501 of the Criminal Law Article, into or have an assault weapon or other firearm or destructive device in a building where:

(i) the Senate or the House has a chamber;

(ii) a member, officer, or employee of the General Assembly has an official office; or

(iii) a committee of the General Assembly, the Senate, or the House has an office.

(f) A person who violates any provision of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to a fine not exceeding $1,000 or imprisonment not exceeding 1 year or both.

Subtitle 18

§ 2-1801

(a) Privileges from testifying for members of the General Assembly are found in § 9-122 of the Courts Article.

(b) Provisions relating to civil immunity for acts and omissions in the performance of constituent services by members of the General Assembly are found in § 5-525 and § 5-526 of the Courts Article.

§ 2-1802

(a) Papers, books, accounts, documents, testimony, and records sought in accordance with a subpoena issued under § 2–408, § 2–507, § 2–807, § 2–1104, or § 2–1608 of this title in connection with a lawfully authorized legislative inquiry or examination must be pertinent to the inquiry or examination.

(b) For purposes of subsection (a) of this section, papers, books, accounts, documents, testimony, or records are considered pertinent if they:

(1) relate to the matters under inquiry or examination;

(2) assist in assessing the credibility of a witness;

(3) contradict or corroborate the testimony of a witness; or

(4) demonstrate the existence of undue influence on a witness.

§ 2-1803

(a) This section applies to a petition for an order directing compliance with a subpoena or compelling testimony under § 2–408, § 2–507, § 2–807, or § 2–1104 of this title.

(b) The petition shall be filed in the Circuit Court for Anne Arundel County or, at the election of the petitioner, in any county in which venue would be appropriate under § 6–201 of the Courts Article.

(c) (1) Except as otherwise provided in this subsection, the petition shall set forth the questions or requests that were asked or made of the party whose conduct necessitated the petition and, if any, the answers or objections provided or raised by that party.

(2) The petitioner may satisfy the provisions of paragraph (1) of this subsection by attaching the relevant portions of a transcript to the petition.

(3) The petitioner need not comply with the provisions of paragraph (1) of this subsection if there has been no response to the subpoena.

(d) Any response to the petition shall be filed by the party served with the petition within 15 days after being served with the petition, unless that time period is shortened by order of the court.

(e) (1) A response to a petition filed by the party whose conduct necessitated the petition is the only pleading that an objecting party may file to object to a subpoena.

(2) The party whose conduct necessitated the petition may not file a motion to quash or a petition for an injunction with respect to the subpoena.

(f) (1) Except for cases that the court considers to require a higher priority, a proceeding under this section, including any subsequent appellate judicial review, shall:

(i) take precedence on the court’s docket;

(ii) be heard at the earliest practicable date; and

(iii) be expedited in every way.

(2) In any hearing on the petition in a proceeding under this section, the court may not allow any additional evidence.

(g) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a party to a proceeding under this section may appeal the decision of the circuit court only by a petition to the Supreme Court of Maryland for the issuance of a writ of certiorari.

§ 2-1804

(a) (1) In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.

(2) “Personal information” means an individual’s:

(i) Social Security number; or

(ii) driver’s license number.

(3) “Publicly post or display” means to intentionally make available to the public.

(b) Except as otherwise provided by law, on or after June 1, 2010, the General Assembly, to the extent practicable, may not publicly post or display on an Internet website maintained or paid for by the General Assembly an individual’s personal information.

Title 3

Subtitle 1

§ 3-101

There are a Governor and a Lieutenant Governor of the State, as provided in Article II of the Maryland Constitution.

§ 3-102

For the term of office beginning on January 21, 2015, the annual salaries of the Governor and Lieutenant Governor are:

(1) Governor:

(i) for the first year, $165,000;

(ii) for the second year, $170,000;

(iii) for the third year, $175,000; and

(iv) for the fourth year, $180,000; and

(2) Lieutenant Governor:

(i) for the first year, $137,500;

(ii) for the second year, $141,500;

(iii) for the third year, $145,500; and

(iv) for the fourth year, $149,500.

Subtitle 2

§ 3-201

In this subtitle, “Governor-elect” means the individual whom the Board of State Canvassers declares to be the successful candidate for Governor after a general election for that office.

§ 3-202

(a) The General Assembly finds that, since a disruption of continuity in the conduct of the affairs of the State government could be detrimental to the safety and welfare of the State and its people, the transfer of executive power, in connection with the expiration of the term of a Governor and the inauguration of another Governor, must be carried out in a manner that ensures continuity.

(b) The purpose of this subtitle is to promote the orderly transfer of executive power.

(1) appropriate action be taken to avoid or to minimize any disruption of continuity in the conduct of the affairs of the State government; and

(2) in addition to the specific provisions of this subtitle, each State officer, in conducting the affairs of the State government:

(i) consider the problems that result from a transfer of executive power;

(ii) take appropriate and lawful action to avoid or to minimize any disruption; and

(iii) otherwise promote an orderly transfer of executive power.

§ 3-203

This subtitle does not apply if the Governor-elect is the incumbent Governor.

§ 3-204

(a) To inform career civil servants about program goals and new policies and to establish communication with the administration of the incumbent Governor, the Governor–elect may circulate questionnaires or otherwise obtain information from the administration.

(b) The Governor–elect may ask any question that will help to carry out the purpose of this subtitle, including a question that is intended to obtain:

(1) a description of a program;

(2) a recommendation and justification for expansion, limitation, or elimination of a service;

(3) a projection of future developments or needs in a program;

(4) a recommendation for an administrative change;

(5) a comment on anticipated federal developments that might affect a program or the State budget; or

(6) an elaboration of procedural details.

(c) The incumbent Governor shall direct that all official documents, vital information, and procedural manuals are to be made available to the Governor–elect.

(d) The Governor–elect shall consult with the State Ethics Commission to begin the process of establishing a certified blind trust or divesting of private interests in accordance with § 5–501.1 of the General Provisions Article.

§ 3-205

(a) The Secretary of Budget and Management shall provide to a Governor-elect:

(1) the information requested by the Governor-elect that is the basis for the proposed budget to be submitted by the Governor-elect for the next fiscal year; and

(2) after completion of the proposed budget:

(i) a copy of the proposed budget; and

(ii) all facilities that the Governor-elect reasonably needs to become familiar with the proposed budget.

(b) (1) After the Governor-elect reviews the proposed budget, the Governor-elect may prepare proposed additions and other changes.

(2) The Secretary of Budget and Management shall:

(i) on request of the Governor-elect, help prepare the proposed changes;

(ii) have printed as many copies of the proposed changes as the Governor-elect requests;

(iii) on or before the 1st day of the regular session of the General Assembly, compile a summary of the proposed changes; and

(iv) on request of the Governor-elect, distribute the copies of the proposed changes to the appropriate agencies and officials.

(c) Immediately following the meeting of the Board of State Canvassers, the Governor-elect may call upon any unit of the Executive Branch to assist in developing the Governor-elect’s budget for the next ensuing fiscal year.

(d) The initial preparation of the budget shall be at the direction of the incumbent Governor. The preparation of the final budget shall be at the direction of the Governor-elect who shall submit it to the General Assembly as provided by Article III, § 52 of the Maryland Constitution.

(e) The Governor whose term is ending may not submit a proposed budget to the General Assembly.

§ 3-206

(a) (1) Any State employee may be assigned to the office staff of the Governor-elect.

(2) During that assignment, the employee:

(i) is responsible only to the Governor-elect for the performance of duties;

(ii) is entitled to the compensation provided by law for the regular employment of the employee; and

(iii) retains the rights and privileges of that employment.

(b) (1) In addition to any State employee assigned under subsection (a) of this section, a Governor-elect may appoint other office staff.

(2) An individual who is appointed under this subsection is not a regular employee of the State government.

§ 3-207

(a) (1) Subject to the limitation in paragraph (2) of this subsection, the Secretary of General Services may provide any necessary facility or service that a Governor-elect requests for use in preparing to assume the duties of office, including the facilities and services set forth in this section.

(2) The Secretary of General Services may not pay any obligation for the provision of facilities or services that a Governor-elect incurs on or before the date of the general election for the office of Governor.

(b) After consultation with a Governor-elect, the Secretary of General Services may provide office space that is suitable and has appropriate supplies and furnishings.

(1) payment of any expenses for services of consultants for the Governor-elect;

(2) reimbursement of a unit of the State government whose employee is assigned to the office staff of the Governor-elect;

(3) payment of the compensation that the Governor-elect sets for other staff; and

(4) payment of appropriate subsistence allowances and other travel expenses, including the rental of motor vehicles, that the Governor-elect finds necessary for individuals who are employed intermittently or serve without compensation.

(d) The Secretary of General Services may:

(1) provide the communication services that the Governor-elect finds necessary;

(2) authorize payment for necessary printing and binding; and

(3) provide for the conveyance of mail that the Governor-elect sends in connection with preparing to assume the duties of office.

§ 3-208

(a) In each budget bill for a fiscal year in which the term of a Governor expires, the Governor shall include an appropriation, to the Secretary of General Services, of the money needed to carry out the purpose of this subtitle.

(b) The appropriation under this section may not be more than $50,000.

(c) If the Governor-elect is the incumbent Governor, the appropriation under this section shall revert to the General Fund of the State.

§ 3-209

This subtitle may be cited as the “Maryland Gubernatorial Transition Act”.

Subtitle 3

§ 3-301

In addition to the powers granted and duties imposed elsewhere, the Governor has the powers and duties set forth in this subtitle.

§ 3-302

The Governor is the head of the Executive Branch of the State government and, except as otherwise provided by law, shall supervise and direct the officers and units in that Branch.

§ 3-303

(a) The Governor is the commander–in–chief of the land and naval militia of the State, except for any part of the militia that is in the active service of the uniformed services.

(b) (1) As to the land militia, the Governor may adopt any regulation or issue any order on enlistment, discharge, organization, discipline, training, and equipment that is needed to conform to Title 13 of the Public Safety Article, to the National Defense Act, or to any regulation that is adopted under the National Defense Act.

(2) As to a naval militia, the Governor may:

(i) by executive order, organize, arm, and equip the naval militia; and

(ii) provide for its administration and discipline in a manner that, to the extent practicable, shall conform to federal law.

§ 3-304

The Governor has the emergency powers and duties set forth in:

(1) Title 14 and § 13-702 of the Public Safety Article;

(2) § 18-212.1 of the Health - General Article; and

(3) any other law.

§ 3-305

The Governor may send to the Legislative Policy Committee a message that recommends legislation or explains a policy of the Governor.

§ 3-306

(a) In this section, “governing board” means a board of directors, managers, trustees, or visitors.

(b) The Governor may appoint 1 or more individuals who are discreet to represent the Governor at a meeting of the governing board of a corporation or institution that receives financial assistance from the State Treasury.

(2) At the meeting, the individual may not vote, but may give an opinion on any matter being considered or discussed.

§ 3-307

(a) On the filing of a complaint against a civil or military officer who may be suspended or removed from office by the Governor, the Governor:

(1) shall provide to the respondent:

(i) a copy of the complaint; and

(ii) notice of the time when the Governor shall hear the complaint;

(2) may summon any witness to testify concerning the complaint, pay the witness a fee of $1 a day for attending, and reimburse the witness for travel expenses incurred in testifying;

(3) may designate one or more individuals to attend on the Governor’s behalf any part of any hearing that relates to the establishment of the facts of the complaint; and

(4) may order either party or the State to pay any costs of the proceeding.

(b) The Governor, in the same manner as a court of the State, may enforce:

(1) the attendance of a witness summoned under subsection (a)(2) of this section; or

(2) an order under subsection (a)(4) of this section for payment of costs by a party or the State.

(c) If the State is ordered to pay costs under subsection (a)(4) of this section, the Comptroller shall issue a warrant to the Treasurer to pay the costs.

§ 3-308

(a) (1) In this section, “international trade agreement” means a trade agreement between the federal government and a foreign country to which the State, at the request of the federal government, is a party.

(2) “International trade agreement” does not include a trade agreement between the State and a foreign country to which the federal government is not a party.

(b) Except as provided in subsection (c) of this section, State officials, including the Governor, may not:

(1) bind the State to the government procurement rules of an international trade agreement; or

(2) give consent to the federal government to bind the State to the government procurement rules of an international trade agreement.

(c) The Governor may bind the State or give consent to the federal government to bind the State to the government procurement rules of an international trade agreement only if the General Assembly enacts legislation that explicitly authorizes the Governor to bind the State or give consent to the federal government to bind the State to the government procurement rules of a specific international trade agreement.

Subtitle 4

§ 3-401

In this subtitle, “executive order” means an order or an amendment or rescission of an order that, over the signature of the Governor:

(1) proclaims or ends a state of emergency or exercises the authority of the Governor during an emergency, under Title 14, Subtitle 3 of the Public Safety Article or any other provision of law;

(2) adopts guidelines, rules of conduct, or rules of procedure for:

(i) State employees;

(ii) units of the State government; or

(iii) persons who are under the jurisdiction of those employees or units or who deal with them;

(3) establishes a unit, including an advisory unit, study unit, or task force; or

(4) changes the organization of the Executive Branch of the State government.

§ 3-402

An executive order that amends another executive order shall show each addition or deletion in the manner shown in a bill in the General Assembly.

§ 3-403

An executive order has the effective date set in the executive order.

§ 3-404

(a) Upon issuance of an executive order, the Governor shall deliver the original or a certified copy of it to the Secretary of State.

(b) The Secretary of State shall:

(1) index the executive orders that the Governor delivers under this section;

(2) keep each executive order during the term of office of the Governor who delivered the executive order, including a consecutive term; and

(3) then deliver the executive order to the State Archives.

§ 3-405

(a) Within 10 days after the Governor delivers an executive order to the Secretary of State, the Secretary shall deliver 2 copies of the executive order to the Executive Director of the Department of Legislative Services.

(b) The Secretary of State shall deliver 1 certified copy of each executive order to the Administrator of the Division of State Documents.

§ 3-406

(a) The publisher of the Code of Public General Laws shall codify each executive order that is issued in statutory form under Article II, § 24 of the Maryland Constitution, as statutes are codified.

(b) (1) The Executive Director of the Department of Legislative Services shall publish all other executive orders and all proclamations that are required to be published.

(2) The Executive Director shall:

(i) to the extent possible, arrange each of these executive orders or proclamations by the article of the Code to which the executive order or proclamation relates; and

(ii) publish these executive orders and proclamations in a volume.

(2) The Executive Director shall establish a procedure to remove from the Code an executive order or proclamation that has been rescinded or has expired.

Title 4

Subtitle 1

§ 4-101

There is a Comptroller of the State, as provided in Article VI, § 1 of the Maryland Constitution.

§ 4-102

(a) While in office, the Comptroller shall be covered by a surety bond or an insurance policy as required in this section.

(b) A surety bond of the Comptroller shall:

(1) run to the State;

(2) be in the amount of $200,000;

(3) be with surety that the Governor approves; and

(4) be conditioned on the Comptroller:

(i) accounting for the funds that are received under color of office; and

(ii) otherwise discharging faithfully each duty of office.

(c) After execution and approval of a surety bond under this section, the surety bond shall be recorded in the office of the Clerk of the Supreme Court of Maryland.

(d) The State Treasurer shall determine the type and amount of coverage to be provided by an insurance policy purchased under subsection (a) of this section and keep record of any insurance policy procured to meet the requirements of subsection (a) of this section.

§ 4-103

The Comptroller’s annual salary shall be:

(1) $165,000 for the first year of the term beginning January 2023;

(2) $170,000 starting on the first anniversary of the beginning of the term;

(3) $173,000 starting on the second anniversary of the beginning of the term; and

(4) $175,000 starting on the third anniversary of the beginning of the term and thereafter.

§ 4-104

(a) (1) The Comptroller may employ a staff in accordance with the State budget.

(2) The staff shall perform the duties that the Comptroller assigns.

(b) (1) From among the employees on the staff, the Comptroller may designate 1 Chief Deputy Comptroller and 1 or more deputy comptrollers.

(2) While in office, the Chief Deputy Comptroller and each deputy comptroller shall be covered by a surety bond or an insurance policy of the type and in the amount of coverage determined by the State Treasurer under § 5–108 of this article.

(3) A designation as Chief Deputy Comptroller or as deputy comptroller may be terminated:

(i) by the Comptroller for any reason that the Comptroller considers sufficient; or

(ii) if the Comptroller is ill or absent, by the other members of the Board of Public Works for any reason that the members consider sufficient.

(4) A termination of the designation as Chief Deputy Comptroller or as deputy comptroller is not, of itself, a termination of employment.

(c) (1) The Comptroller, in consultation with the Secretary of Budget and Management, may set the pay scale of a position in the Office of the Comptroller that:

(i) is unique to the Office of the Comptroller; and

(ii) requires specific skills or experience to perform the duties of the position.

(2) The Secretary of Budget and Management, in consultation with the Comptroller, shall determine the positions for which the Comptroller may set compensation under paragraph (1) of this subsection.

§ 4-105

(a) If the Comptroller temporarily is unable or unavailable to carry out the duties of office, an acting comptroller shall have the powers and duties of the office, as provided in this section.

(b) The Chief Deputy Comptroller shall be the acting comptroller under this section, unless the members of the Board of Public Works, other than the Comptroller, appoint another individual as acting comptroller and give the Chief Deputy Comptroller written notice of the appointment.

(c) If the Comptroller gives the Board of Public Works and the Chief Deputy Comptroller written notice of a temporary inability or unavailability, the acting comptroller shall serve:

(1) on and after the date that the Comptroller sets in the notice; and

(2) until the Comptroller gives the Board of Public Works and the acting comptroller written notice that the Comptroller is able to carry out the duties.

(d) If the Comptroller has not given notice, but the other members of the Board of Public Works make a formal, written determination of a temporary inability or unavailability of the Comptroller, the acting comptroller shall serve:

(1) on and after the date of the determination; and

(2) until the members determine and give the Comptroller and the acting comptroller written notice that the Comptroller is able to carry out the duties.

(e) The Supreme Court of Maryland has exclusive original jurisdiction, on petition of the Governor, the Comptroller, the Treasurer, or the acting comptroller, to determine any issue that arises under this section and to pass any appropriate order.

§ 4-106

(a) Subject to the limitation in subsection (b) of this section, the Comptroller may transfer any staff, funds, or equipment from any unit in the Office of the Comptroller to another unit in the Office.

(b) The class and grade of staff who are transferred may not be reduced by reason of the transfer.

§ 4-107

The Governor or any member of the General Assembly may inspect, during regular business hours, the accounts and general books of the Comptroller.

§ 4-108

(a) The Comptroller shall set the number and compensation of assistant clerks or deputies employed by each register of wills.

(b) Compensation from an account for services of an assistant clerk, deputy, or other individual who performs any of the duties pertaining to the office of a register of wills may not be allowed until the individual certifies under oath that:

(1) the services have been performed;

(2) the individual has received, for personal use and benefit, the full sum to be charged to the account;

(3) the individual has not paid, deposited, or assigned, or contracted to pay, deposit, or assign, any part of the compensation to the use of another; and

(4) the individual, directly or indirectly, has not paid or given, or contracted to pay or give, a reward or compensation for the office or employment or its emoluments.

(c) The Comptroller shall increase the salary of each of the nonelected employees in the offices of the registers of wills commensurate with the increases granted to State employees generally.

§ 4-109

The bond of each register of wills and each other officer and employee of the State or unit of the State shall be made to the State and, other than the bond of the Comptroller, each bond when executed shall be filed with the Comptroller after any approval of the bond required by statute.

§ 4-110

(a) This section applies to all licenses issued by the clerks of the courts other than those issued under Title 17 of the Business Regulation Article.

(b) The Comptroller shall have printed or otherwise prepared, in the forms required by law or usage, blank licenses of every kind:

(1) issued by the clerks of the courts of the State; and

(2) authorized by law.

§ 4-111

(a) This section applies to all accounts in the public offices of the State and all proceedings in the courts of the State.

(b) All accounts in the State shall be expressed in dollars and cents.

§ 4-112

(a) (1) In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.

(2) “Aggregated data” means de–identified data that is summarized by type of program of study or educational institution.

(3) “Student information” means:

(i) student Social Security number;

(ii) program of study;

(iii) enrollment; and

(iv) name of educational institution.

(4) “Tax information” means income tax records, wage information, and other data stored by the Comptroller.

(b) (1) In accordance with the protocol established under § 24–703.2 of the Education Article, the Comptroller shall:

(i) match student information received from the Maryland Longitudinal Data System Center with tax information maintained by the Comptroller; and

(ii) for research purposes, produce aggregated data from the matched information on the average amount of wage or salary earnings from self–employment or other sources of income for individuals within each educational institution or program of study.

(2) The Comptroller may not produce any aggregated data that may be identifiable based on the size or uniqueness of the population under consideration.

(1) data retention and disposition policies;

(2) authorized access and authentication for authorized access policies;

(3) privacy compliance standards; and

(4) breach notification and procedures.

(d) The Comptroller shall comply with any data privacy and security standards in accordance with the federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act and other relevant privacy laws and policies.

§ 4-113

(a) (1) In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.

(2) “Departments” means:

(i) the Office of the Comptroller;

(ii) the Office of the State Treasurer;

(iii) the Department of Budget and Management;

(iv) the Department of Information Technology; and

(v) the Department of General Services.

(3) “Financial management infrastructure” means the information technology infrastructure that is used to maintain the general ledger and accountancy for the State, including subledger functions that enable the management of all payments and fund transfers throughout the State.

(4) “21st Century Financial Systems Enterprise” means a modern cloud–based information technology infrastructure.

(b) In consultation with a designated representative from the Modernize Maryland Oversight Commission, the departments shall:

(1) set policies, objectives, and priorities for the transformation of the State’s financial management information systems infrastructure into the 21st Century Financial Systems Enterprise;

(2) learn the needs and priorities of all users of the financial management information systems and future known users of the 21st Century Financial Systems Enterprise;

(3) collaborate with consultants to create a project proposal for, and oversee implementation of, the 21st Century Financial Systems Enterprise;

(4) oversee, coordinate, and authorize the assignment of resources for the development of the 21st Century Financial Systems Enterprise;

(5) establish working groups as needed; and

(6) recommend any legislative changes considered necessary by the departments to address financial management information systems issues.

(c) In consultation with a designated representative from the Modernize Maryland Oversight Commission, the departments shall set priorities to:

(1) standardize financial management for all State agencies by requiring all State agencies to participate in the 21st Century Financial Systems Enterprise;

(2) provide support to participating units in accordance with the policies and objectives established by the departments;

(3) conform to modernized business and technology standards;

(4) host and manage modernized applications and shared data for the delivery of all accounting services in the State;

(5) use and manage the 21st Century Financial Systems Enterprise to achieve the goals and objectives set by the departments;

(6) facilitate and coordinate the delivery of portfolio products and services;

(7) ensure the faithful execution of all agreements entered into on behalf of the departments; and

(8) oversee and be responsible for the oversight, implementation, and management of the 21st Century Financial Systems Enterprise.

(d) The Office of the Comptroller, in accordance with § 2–1257 of this article, shall report to the General Assembly on the status of the development of the 21st Century Financial Systems Enterprise beginning on or before December 31, 2023, and every 6 months thereafter, ending with the final report due on or before January 1, 2027.

§ 4-114

(a) In this section, “dashboard” means the procurement transparency data dashboard required to be published on the Board of Public Works’ website in accordance with this section.

(b) (1) The Comptroller shall develop and maintain on the Board of Public Works’ website a procurement transparency data dashboard.

(2) A governance committee composed of the liaisons to the Board of Public Works from the offices of the Governor, the Comptroller, and the State Treasurer shall review the contents of the dashboard for accuracy and completeness.

(1) be public, interactive, and searchable; and

(2) include information related to State procurement, including:

(i) Board of Public Works meeting announcements, agendas, and related materials, including contract spending amounts; and

(ii) information on State procurement preference programs established under Title 14 of the State Finance and Procurement Article, including:

1. the minority business enterprise participation goal established under § 14–302 of the State Finance and Procurement Article; and

2. the veteran–owned small business enterprise goal established under § 14–602 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.

(d) For fiscal year 2025 and each fiscal year thereafter, the Governor shall include in the annual budget bill an appropriation in an amount necessary for:

(1) at least one full–time position in the Comptroller’s Office to develop and maintain the dashboard; and

(2) software necessary to develop and maintain the dashboard.

Title 5

Subtitle 1

§ 5-101

(a) There is a Treasurer of the State, as provided in Article VI, § 1 of the Maryland Constitution.

(b) (1) The General Assembly may designate a committee to consider the qualifications of the candidates and procedures for the casting of ballots for the appointment.

(2) A committee designated under this subsection shall consist of an equal number of Senators and Delegates.

(3) The President and the Speaker shall each designate a cochairman of the committee.

(4) At least 7 days prior to the public hearing, staff shall advertise the position in newspapers of general circulation in the State.

(5) The committee shall conduct a public meeting at which time candidates for the Office of Treasurer shall present themselves.

(6) The committee shall determine its procedures which shall include a secret ballot, limited to the members present and voting, to determine its nominee.

(c) If the General Assembly designates a committee under subsection (b) of this section, the committee shall report to the General Assembly on the qualifications of the candidates for the Office of Treasurer and recommend one of the candidates to the General Assembly for the appointment as Treasurer.

(d) (1) During the first session following the election of new members to the General Assembly, the General Assembly shall meet in joint session to appoint the Treasurer.

(2) If the General Assembly does not appoint someone to the Office of Treasurer at the time of its first joint session to consider the appointment of a Treasurer, the General Assembly shall continue to meet in joint session on a daily basis until a Treasurer is appointed.

(e) (1) The appointment of the Treasurer by the General Assembly shall be determined by a majority of the membership present and voting of the Senate and the House, sitting jointly.

(2) Each member of the General Assembly shall have 1 vote.

(3) (i) The name of each person who applies shall be placed on the ballot that is distributed at the joint session and the ballot shall contain a place for a write-in candidate. A candidate may withdraw his or her name at any time.

(ii) Before ballots are distributed, the Reading Clerk shall read the letter of recommendation, if any, from the joint committee for which provision is made in subsection (c) of this section. Once read, the joint session shall immediately proceed with the balloting. Nominating speeches may not be made from the floor.

(iii) The casting of ballots for the appointment of the Treasurer shall be by secret ballot.

(iv) Ballots shall be distributed by representatives of the Office of the Secretary of the Senate and of the Chief Clerk of the House of Delegates. The Secretary of the Senate shall open each ballot and hand it to the Chief Clerk of the House, who shall announce for whom the vote is cast.

(v) The counting of ballots shall be observed by:

1. the Majority Leader of the Senate;

2. the Minority Leader of the Senate;

3. the Majority Leader of the House of Delegates;

4. the Minority Leader of the House of Delegates; and

5. any other member of either chamber so designated by the President of the Senate or the Speaker of the House.

(4) The Rules of the House of Delegates, as adopted for the session at which the State Treasurer is appointed, shall govern the proceedings of the joint session or sessions. The members of the General Assembly, sitting jointly, shall determine any other procedure necessary for the casting of ballots for the appointment of the Treasurer.

(f) Staff to the joint committee shall be provided by the Department of Legislative Services.

§ 5-101.1

In addition to the oath specified in Article I, § 9 of the Maryland Constitution, the Treasurer shall take an oath to discharge the duties of the Office of Treasurer faithfully, diligently, and honestly.

§ 5-102

(a) While in office, the Treasurer shall be covered by a surety bond or an insurance policy as required in this section.

(b) A surety bond under this section shall:

(1) run to the State;

(2) be in the amount that the Governor approves;

(3) be with a surety company that is authorized to do business in the State; and

(4) include provisions that secure the money of:

(i) the Injured Workers’ Insurance Fund;

(ii) the Subsequent Injury Fund; and

(iii) the Unemployment Insurance Administration Fund.

(c) (1) If the Governor believes that a surety bond under this section has or is likely to become invalid or insufficient, the Governor shall demand that the Treasurer obtain coverage under a new surety bond that meets the requirements of this section.

(2) Neglect or refusal to obtain the coverage within 20 days after the demand constitutes disqualification from office, as authorized in the Maryland Constitution.

(d) After execution and approval of a surety bond under this section, the surety bond shall be recorded in the office of the Clerk of the Supreme Court of Maryland.

(e) (1) The Governor, in consultation with the State Treasurer, shall determine the type and amount of coverage provided by an insurance policy purchased under subsection (a) of this section.

(2) The State Treasurer shall keep a record of any insurance policy procured for the purpose of meeting the requirements of subsection (a) of this section.

§ 5-102.1

(a) In addition to the bond or insurance policy required under § 5–102 of this subtitle, the State Treasurer shall be covered by a surety bond or an insurance policy meeting the requirements of this section.

(b) A surety bond purchased to meet the requirements of subsection (a) of this section shall:

(1) be conditioned on the faithful performance of the duties of the State Treasurer as custodian of the Unemployment Insurance Fund;

(2) run to the State;

(3) be in an amount that the Secretary approves; and

(4) be in a form required by law or approved by the Attorney General.

(c) An insurance policy purchased to meet the requirements of subsection (a) of this section shall be of the type and in the amount of coverage determined by the State Treasurer, in consultation with the Secretary of Labor.

§ 5-103

(a) Before taking office, the Treasurer shall place in a trust over which the Treasurer has no control or otherwise shall be divested of all capital stock of banks, trust companies, and other financial institutions in the State.

(b) While in office, the Treasurer may not own capital stock of or receive compensation from a bank, trust company, or other financial institution in the State.

§ 5-104

(a) The Treasurer shall devote full time to the duties of office.

(b) The Treasurer shall address the Legislative Policy Committee of the General Assembly on a semiannual basis and as necessary on issues of legislative importance, including the activities of the Board of Public Works, bond sales, and investment and procurement initiatives.

(1) $165,000 for the first year of appointment beginning January, 2023;

(2) $170,000 starting on the first anniversary after appointment;

(3) $173,000 starting on the second anniversary after appointment; and

(4) $175,000 starting on the third anniversary after appointment and thereafter.

§ 5-105

(a) (1) The Treasurer may employ a staff in accordance with the State budget.

(2) While on the staff, an individual shall be covered by a surety bond or an insurance policy of the type and in the amount of coverage determined by the State Treasurer under § 5–108 of this subtitle.

(3) The staff shall perform the duties that the Treasurer assigns.

(b) (1) From among the employees on the staff, the Treasurer may designate 1 Chief Deputy Treasurer and 1 or more deputy treasurers.

(2) A designation as Chief Deputy Treasurer or as deputy treasurer may be terminated:

(i) by the Treasurer for any reason that the Treasurer considers sufficient; or

(ii) if the Treasurer is ill or absent, by the other members of the Board of Public Works for any reason that the members consider sufficient.

(3) A termination of the designation as Chief Deputy Treasurer or as deputy treasurer is not, of itself, a termination of employment.

(c) (1) The Treasurer, in consultation with the Secretary of Budget and Management, may set the pay scale of a position in the Office of the Treasurer that:

(i) is unique to the Office of the Treasurer; and

(ii) requires specific skills or experience to perform the duties of the position.

(2) The Secretary of Budget and Management, in consultation with the Treasurer, shall determine the positions for which the Treasurer may set compensation under paragraph (1) of this subsection.

§ 5-106

(a) If the Treasurer temporarily is unable or unavailable to carry out the duties of office, an acting treasurer shall have the powers and duties of the office, as provided in this section.

(b) (1) If the Treasurer gives the presiding officers of the General Assembly and the Chief Deputy Treasurer written notice of a temporary inability or unavailability, the Chief Deputy Treasurer shall serve as an acting treasurer unless the presiding officers appoint another individual as acting treasurer and give the Chief Deputy Treasurer written notice of the appointment.

(2) An acting treasurer shall serve under this subsection:

(i) on and after the date that the Treasurer sets in the notice; and

(ii) until the Treasurer gives the presiding officers and the acting treasurer written notice that the Treasurer is able to carry out the duties.

(c) (1) If the Treasurer has not given notice, but the presiding officers of the General Assembly make a formal, written determination of a temporary inability or unavailability of the Treasurer, the officers may appoint an acting treasurer.

(2) The acting treasurer shall serve under this subsection:

(i) on and after the date of the appointment; and

(ii) until the presiding officers jointly determine and give the Treasurer and the acting treasurer written notice that the Treasurer is able to carry out the duties.

(d) The Supreme Court of Maryland has exclusive original jurisdiction, on petition of the presiding officers of the General Assembly, the Treasurer, or the acting treasurer, to determine any issue that arises under this section and to pass any appropriate order.

§ 5-107

If the Office of the Treasurer becomes vacant, the Chief Deputy Treasurer is the deputy treasurer who acts as Treasurer under Article VI, § 1 of the Maryland Constitution.

§ 5-108

(a) In determining the type and amount of coverage of any surety bond or insurance policy required by law, the State Treasurer shall have due regard for the duties and responsibilities of the officer or employee.

(b) An officer or employee who is required to be bonded or insured shall be covered, on beginning the performance of the officer’s or employee’s duties, by a surety bond or an insurance policy of the type specified and in the amount and term to be determined by the State Treasurer.

(c) Each State officer or employee, other than those specifically required to be bonded or insured in accordance with any law of the State, who in the opinion of the State Treasurer should be bonded or insured shall be bonded with the type of bond or insurance and in the amount and term to be determined by the State Treasurer.

(d) The State Treasurer shall keep a record of each insurance policy purchased to meet the requirements of subsection (b) of this section.

(e) (1) On the purchase of any bond required by law, a copy of the bond shall be sent to the Comptroller.

(2) A record shall be kept in the Office of the State Comptroller giving:

(i) the name of the officer or employee for whom any individual bond is issued;

(ii) the name of the agency in which the officer or employee is employed or the name of the agencies covered under a blanket bond program;

(iii) the name of the company issuing the bond; and

(iv) the amount, date, and time of expiration of the bond and of any certificate renewing the bond.

Title 6

Subtitle 1

§ 6-101

In this title, “Office” means the Office of the Attorney General.

§ 6-102

Except as otherwise provided by law, this title does not apply to:

(1) the Public Service Commission;

(2) a board of supervisors of elections of a county;

(3) the Baltimore City Board of School Commissioners or a county board of education; or

(4) any other county officer or unit.

§ 6-103

(a) There is an Attorney General of the State, as provided in Article V, § 1 of the Maryland Constitution.

(b) The Attorney General’s annual salary shall be:

(1) $165,000 for the first year of the term beginning January, 2023;

(2) $170,000 starting on the first anniversary of the beginning of the term;

(3) $173,000 starting on the second anniversary of the beginning of the term; and

(4) $175,000 starting on the third anniversary of the beginning of the term and thereafter.

(c) The Attorney General is also entitled to reimbursement for travel and other expenses that are connected with the duties of the Office.

§ 6-104

(a) There is an Office of the Attorney General.

(b) The Attorney General may have offices, which the State shall maintain and equip.

§ 6-105

(a) (1) The Attorney General may employ a staff in accordance with the State budget.

(2) Attorneys, positions that provide direct support to the Attorney General, and positions that provide direct support to the positions specified in paragraph (3) of this subsection, appointed under this subsection:

(i) notwithstanding any other law, and except as provided in paragraph (3) of this subsection, are deemed special appointments within the meaning of § 6–405(a) of the State Personnel and Pensions Article;

(ii) may not be determined to be special appointments under § 6–405(b) of the State Personnel and Pensions Article; and

(iii) serve at the pleasure of the Attorney General.

(3) The following positions are special appointments under § 6–405(b) of the State Personnel and Pensions Article:

(i) Deputy Attorney General;

(ii) special assistant to the Attorney General;

(iii) executive counsel to the Attorney General;

(iv) director or chief of a division or unit in the Office; and

(v) principal counsel to a State unit.

(4) (i) Staff appointed under this subsection is entitled to compensation as provided in the State budget.

(ii) Unless the State budget provides otherwise, the salary of a Deputy Attorney General, assistant Attorney General, or special attorney appointed under this subsection is payable from the funds of the Office.

(5) Staff is entitled to reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations, as provided in the State budget.

(b) (1) In addition to any other staff appointed under this section, the Attorney General, with the written approval of the Governor, may employ any assistant counsel that the Attorney General considers necessary to carry out any duty of the Office in an extraordinary or unforeseen case or in special county work.

(2) The Attorney General shall submit to the Governor a written request that:

(i) states the necessity of and each reason for the special employment; and

(ii) states the proposed compensation and its source or certifies that the Attorney General cannot ascertain in advance the proper compensation.

(3) Compensation that cannot be ascertained in advance may be agreed on or adjusted later.

(c) (1) In addition to any other staff appointed under this section, the Attorney General may employ special counsel to defend a State officer or State employee under Title 12, Subtitle 3 of this article if the Attorney General determines that representation by the Attorney General or an assistant is impracticable or uneconomical.

(2) The special counsel is entitled to compensation, as set by the Attorney General and approved by the Board of Public Works, under Title 12, Subtitle 5 of this article.

(d) Each Deputy Attorney General, assistant Attorney General, or special attorney appointed under subsection (a) of this section shall be a practicing lawyer of the State in good standing.

(e) (1) The Attorney General may assign any duty that the law imposes on the Attorney General to a Deputy Attorney General, assistant Attorney General, or special attorney appointed under subsection (a) of this section or, to the extent permitted by law, a law clerk.

(2) The Deputy Attorney General, assistant Attorney General, special attorney, or law clerk shall perform the assigned duty, subject to the control of the Attorney General.

(f) In addition to any other staff appointed under this section, the Attorney General may employ any assistant counsel that the Attorney General considers necessary to carry out any duty of the Office if the employment of the assistant counsel:

(1) is on a pro bono basis;

(2) will not result in more than minimal cost to the State; and

(3) will not result in the payment to the assistant counsel of any portion of the State’s recovery in any case or matter.

(g) (1) The Attorney General, in consultation with the Secretary of Budget and Management, may set the pay scale of a position in the Office of the Attorney General that:

(i) is unique to the Office of the Attorney General; and

(ii) requires specific skills or experience to perform the duties of the position.

(2) The Secretary of Budget and Management, in consultation with the Attorney General, shall determine the positions for which the Attorney General may set compensation under paragraph (1) of this subsection.

§ 6-106

(a) Except as otherwise provided in this section, the Attorney General has general charge of the legal business of the State.

(b) Unless a law expressly provides for a general counsel as the legal adviser and representative of the officer or unit, the Attorney General is the legal adviser of and shall represent and otherwise perform all of the legal work for each officer and unit of the State government.

(c) Notwithstanding any other section of law, an officer or unit of the State government may not employ or be represented by a legal adviser or counsel other than the Attorney General or a designee of the Attorney General, except that:

(1) (i) an officer or unit of the State government may employ or be represented by a legal adviser or counsel other than the Attorney General or the Attorney General’s designee with prior approval of the Attorney General; and

(ii) the approval may be provided under § 6–105(b) or (c) of this subtitle, § 13–107 of the State Finance and Procurement Article, or other authority specified by the Attorney General;

(2) a State institution may employ counsel to represent the institution in a habeas corpus proceeding;

(3) a unit of the State government may employ counsel if:

(i) an investigation by an investigating committee of the General Assembly affects the unit;

(ii) the Attorney General represents both the investigating committee and the unit;

(iii) the Attorney General gives the Board of Public Works and the unit written notice that representation by the Attorney General involves or reasonably may involve a conflict of interest; and

(iv) the Board of Public Works approves the employment of counsel by the unit;

(4) the Office of the Public Defender may employ or be represented by a legal adviser or counsel other than the Attorney General or the Attorney General’s designee; and

(5) unless otherwise agreed to by the Attorney General and the County Attorney for Montgomery County, the County Attorney for Montgomery County may represent the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services in a contested case under Title 10, Subtitle 2 of this article.

§ 6-106.1

(a) The General Assembly finds that:

(1) the federal government’s action or failure to take action may pose a threat to the health and welfare of the residents of the State; and

(2) the State should investigate and obtain relief from any arbitrary, unlawful, or unconstitutional federal action or inaction and prevent such action or inaction from harming the residents of the State.

(b) (1) In addition to any other powers and duties and subject to the requirements of this subsection, the Attorney General may investigate, commence, and prosecute or defend any civil or criminal suit or action that is based on the federal government’s action or inaction that threatens the public interest and welfare of the residents of the State with respect to:

(i) protecting the health of the residents of the State and ensuring the availability of affordable health care;

(ii) safeguarding public safety and security;

(iii) protecting civil liberties;

(iv) preserving and enhancing the economic security of workers and retirees;

(v) protecting financial security of the residents of the State, including their pensions, savings, and investments, and ensuring fairness in mortgages, student loans, and the marketplace;

(vi) protecting the residents of the State against fraud and other deceptive and predatory practices;

(vii) protecting the natural resources and environment of the State;

(viii) protecting the residents of the State against illegal and unconstitutional federal immigration and travel restrictions;

(ix) protecting residents of the State who are employees of the federal government who are not being paid because of a full or partial federal government shutdown due to a lapse in appropriations;

(x) protecting residents of the State who were employees of the federal government, and on or after January 1, 2025:

1. were terminated from employment by the federal government due to the closure, relocation, or mass layoff of a unit of the federal government, or other similar circumstances beyond the employees’ control; or

2. separated from employment by the federal government as a result of a voluntary separation incentive payment;

(xi) protecting residents of the State who are inappropriately denied federal benefits that they have earned, including Social Security benefits, Medicare, and Veterans Affairs benefits;

(xii) protecting residents of the State who are inappropriately denied federal entitlements, including Medicaid; or

(xiii) otherwise protecting, as parens patriae, the State’s interest in the general health and well–being of its residents.

(2) Except as provided in paragraph (4) of this subsection, before commencing a suit or an action under paragraph (1) of this subsection, the Attorney General shall provide to the Governor:

(i) written notice of the intended suit or action; and

(ii) an opportunity to review and comment on the intended suit or action.

(3) If the Governor objects to the intended suit or action for which notice was provided under this subsection:

(i) the Governor shall provide in writing to the Attorney General the reasons for the objection within 10 days after receiving the notice; and

(ii) except as provided in paragraph (4) of this subsection, the Attorney General shall consider the Governor’s objection before commencing the suit or action.

(4) If the Attorney General determines that emergency circumstances require the immediate commencement of a suit or an action under paragraph (1) of this subsection, the Attorney General shall provide to the Governor notice of the suit or action as soon as reasonably practicable.

(c) The Governor’s proposed budget for fiscal year 2019, and for each fiscal year thereafter, shall appropriate at least $2,500,000 to the Attorney General to be used only for:

(1) carrying out this section; and

(2) employing attorneys in the Office of the Attorney General.

§ 6-106.2

(a) This section applies to an action brought or asserted by the State arising from or related to alleged or threatened injuries to the environment, infrastructure, or the natural resources of the State associated with the allision between the vessel known as the Dali and the Francis Scott Key Bridge on March 26, 2024.

(b) (1) In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.

(2) “Proportionate share of liability” means the percentage of comparative responsibility assigned by a judge or jury to a settling party in accordance with this section.

(3) “Responsible person” means a person alleged to be liable in an action governed by this section.

(1) make a determination of the total liability, including damages, costs, and any other available relief;

(2) assign comparative responsibility to each party joined in the action, including all defendants, third–party defendants, intervenors, and any other named party, based on the party’s relative degree of fault or responsibility for the total liability; and

(3) if equity requires, determine the liability of a group of related persons on a collective basis.

(d) If the State has not obtained complete relief from a responsible person who has resolved the person’s liability to the State in a settlement of an action governed by this section, the State may:

(1) continue to pursue an action against any other responsible person who has not resolved the person’s liability to the State; or

(2) bring a new action against any other responsible person who has not resolved the person’s liability to the State.

(e) Notwithstanding any other provision of State law:

(1) the Maryland Uniform Contribution Among Joint Tort–Feasors Act under Title 3, Subtitle 14 of the Courts Article does not apply to an action governed by this section;

(2) if a responsible person resolves the person’s liability to the State in a settlement of an action governed by this section, the person may not be liable for claims for noncontractual contribution or indemnity regarding any action or claim resolved in the settlement; and

(3) a settlement of an action governed by this section that resolves the liability of a responsible person:

(i) does not release from liability any other responsible person except as specifically provided in the terms of the settlement; but

(ii) reduces the potential liability of all other responsible persons liable in whole or in part by the larger of:

1. the settling person’s proportionate share of liability; or

2. the amount the settling person pays to settle the action.

(f) This section may not be construed to:

(1) impair any express contractual rights;

(2) create new types of actions or claims;

(3) alter the burden of proof, causation standard, or elements of an action or claim governed by this section; or

(4) grant authority to the State or the Attorney General to bring actions or claims not otherwise authorized by law.

§ 6-107

(a) The Attorney General is the legal adviser of and shall represent and otherwise perform all of the legal work for:

(1) the Board of Supervisors of Elections of Baltimore City;

(2) the Board of Liquor Commissioners of Baltimore City; and

(3) the Sheriff of Baltimore City.

(b) (1) The Attorney General may advise or represent a political subdivision of the State or any of its officers, employees, or agents as to a matter that relates to State or federal antitrust law.

(2) Representation under this subsection may include an appearance in an action or administrative proceeding to defend the subdivision, officer, employee, or agent.

(3) The Attorney General may require a political subdivision to pay into the General Fund of the State reimbursement for the costs of defending the subdivision in an action or proceeding.

(4) This subsection does not deprive any political subdivision, officer, employee, or agent of any right to retain counsel, at the expense of the subdivision, officer, employee, or agent.

§ 6-108

(a) The Attorney General or any Deputy Attorney General or assistant Attorney General whom the Attorney General designates may:

(1) become a member of an organization of attorneys general of other states or their deputies or assistants and, as provided in the State budget, contribute to the expenses of the organization; and

(2) use the services of the Council of State Governments and, as provided in the State budget, contribute to the cost of the services.

(b) (1) On January 1 of each year, the Attorney General shall submit an annual report to the Governor and, in accordance with § 2–1257 of this article, the General Assembly.

(2) The annual report shall:

(i) describe the business and proceedings of the Office during the preceding calendar year; and

(ii) include any recommendations that the Attorney General considers appropriate.

(c) The Attorney General shall keep the following records until they are disposed of in accordance with § 10–616 of this article:

(1) a copy of the pleadings in each suit, action, or other proceeding of which the Office has charge;

(2) a complete and current docket of those proceedings;

(3) a copy of each written opinion that the Office issues; and

(4) an abstract of each title that the Office examines or has examined.

(d) The Attorney General annually shall publish on the website of the Attorney General:

(1) the opinions that the Office issued during the preceding calendar year; and

(2) the annual report for that preceding calendar year.

(e) (1) The papers of the Office shall be filed in its offices until disposed of in accordance with § 10–616 of this article.

(2) The papers and books of the Office shall be indexed so that they are readily accessible.

§ 6-109

(a) (1) In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.

(2) “Department” means the Department of Assessments and Taxation.

(3) “Governing body” means the head, board, council, board of directors, or other governing body of a State agency.

(b) (1) A State agency not represented by the Attorney General shall designate a citizen of this State who resides in this State, a Maryland corporation, or an officer of the State agency as its resident agent and change its resident agent by filing for record with the Department a certified copy of a resolution of its governing body that authorizes the designation or change.

(2) A State agency may change the address for its resident agent by filing for record with the Department a statement of the change signed by the chairman or other principal officer of its governing body.

(c) (1) A resident agent whose address changes may notify the Department by filing for record with the Department a statement of the change signed by or for the resident agent.

(2) A resident agent may resign by filing with the Department a statement of resignation.

(d) There is no fee for a filing under this section.

(e) A designation, change of agent, change of address, or resignation is effective as provided in the Corporations and Associations Article for a corporate resident agent.

(f) (1) Service of process on a resident agent of a State agency constitutes effective service of process under the Maryland Rules on the State agency in an action, suit, or proceeding that is pending, filed, or instituted against the State agency.

(2) Any notice required by law to be served by personal service on a resident agent or other agent or officer of a State agency may be served in the manner provided by the Maryland Rules relating to service of process on State agencies.

(3) Service under the Maryland Rules is equivalent to personal service on a resident agent or other agent or officer of a State agency.

§ 6-110

(a) The Chief Deputy Attorney General shall serve as acting Attorney General if the Attorney General temporarily is unable or unavailable to carry out the duties of office.

(b) If the Attorney General gives the Chief Deputy Attorney General written notice of a temporary inability or unavailability, the acting Attorney General shall serve:

(1) on and after the date that the Attorney General sets in the notice; and

(2) until the Attorney General gives the acting Attorney General written notice that the Attorney General is able to carry out the duties of office.

(c) If the Attorney General has not given notice, but the members of the Board of Public Works and the presiding officers of the General Assembly, by a majority vote, make a formal, written determination of a temporary inability or unavailability of the Attorney General, the Chief Deputy Attorney General shall serve as acting Attorney General:

(1) on and after the date of the determination; and

(2) until the members of the Board of Public Works and the presiding officers of the General Assembly, by a majority vote, determine and give the Attorney General and the acting Attorney General written notice that the Attorney General is able to carry out the duties of office.

(d) (1) On petition of any member of the Board of Public Works, a presiding officer of the General Assembly, the Attorney General, or the acting Attorney General, a circuit court has exclusive original jurisdiction to determine any issue that arises under this section and to pass any appropriate order.

(2) Except for cases that the court considers of greater importance, a proceeding under this section, including an appeal, shall:

(i) take precedence on the docket;

(ii) be heard at the earliest practicable date; and

(iii) be expedited in every way.

§ 6-111

(a) (1) In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.

(2) “Collateral immigration enforcement” means federal immigration enforcement actions that affect individuals who are not the primary target of the enforcement action but are present at the location of the enforcement action.

(3) “Immigration enforcement” means federal immigration enforcement actions.

(4) “Sensitive location” means:

(i) a public school;

(ii) a public library;

(iii) a health care facility operated by a unit of State or local government;

(iv) a facility operated by the Comptroller;

(v) a courthouse; or

(vi) any other location that:

1. provides State–funded services related to:

A. physical or mental health;

B. education;

C. shelter care; or

D. access to justice; and

2. as determined by the Attorney General, requires special consideration for immigration enforcement activities.

(b) The Attorney General shall develop and publish guidance that informs the public and relevant State agencies about:

(1) delineating between immigration enforcement within the public portions of sensitive locations and the nonpublic or private portions of sensitive locations;

(2) verifying the identity of immigration enforcement agents and validating immigration enforcement documentation seeking specific individuals;

(3) limiting liability exposure for State, local, and private institutions and the participation of the employees of those institutions in immigration enforcement at sensitive locations;

(4) facilitating relationships between federal law enforcement officers and State and local officials and law enforcement officers in order to conduct immigration enforcement activities through the least dangerous and disruptive means; and

(5) complying with existing legal obligations and limitations on State and local agencies while maintaining public safety and accessibility to those agencies.

(c) Private entities are encouraged to adopt policies consistent with the guidance developed under subsection (b) of this section if the private entities provide services related to:

(1) physical or mental health;

(2) education;

(3) shelter care; or

(4) access to justice.

(d) On or before October 1, 2025, each public school, public library, and unit of the Executive Branch of State or local government that operates at a sensitive location shall implement a policy consistent with the guidance issued by the Attorney General under this section.

(e) The guidance and policies required by this section are not subject to Title 10, Subtitles 1, 2, and 3 of this article.

Subtitle 3

§ 6-301

(a) In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.

(b) “Commissioner” means the Maryland Insurance Commissioner.

(d) “Health care provider” has the meaning stated in § 3-2A-01 of the Courts Article.

(e) “Homeowner’s insurer” means an insurer that issues or delivers a policy or contract of homeowner’s insurance in the State.

(f) “Insurance consumers” means persons insured under policies or contracts of medical professional liability insurance, and homeowner’s insurance issued or delivered in the State by a medical professional liability insurer or a homeowner’s insurer.

(g) “Insurer” means a medical professional liability insurer or a homeowner’s insurer authorized to engage in the insurance business in the State under a certificate of authority issued by the Commissioner.

(h) “Medical injury” has the meaning stated in § 3-2A-01 of the Courts Article.

(i) “Medical professional liability insurer” means an insurer that issues or delivers a policy in the State that insures a health care provider against damages due to medical injury.

(j) “Premium” has the meaning stated in § 1-101 of the Insurance Article to the extent it is allocable to this State.

§ 6-302

(a) (1) There is a People’s Insurance Counsel Division in the Office of the Attorney General.

(2) The Attorney General shall appoint the People’s Insurance Counsel with the advice and consent of the Senate.

(b) The People’s Insurance Counsel serves at the pleasure of the Attorney General.

(d) The People’s Insurance Counsel shall devote full time to the duties of the Office.

(e) The People’s Insurance Counsel is entitled to compensation as provided in the State budget.

(f) The People’s Insurance Counsel and employees of the Division may not hold an official relation to or have any pecuniary interest in an insurer, insurance agency, or insurance transaction, other than as a policyholder or claimant under a policy.

§ 6-303

(a) The Office of the Attorney General shall include in its annual budget sufficient money for the administration and operation of the Division.

(b) The Division may retain as necessary for a particular matter or employ experts in the field of insurance regulation, including accountants, actuaries, and lawyers.

§ 6-304

(a) The Commissioner shall:

(1) collect an annual assessment from each medical professional liability insurer and homeowner’s insurer for the costs and expenses incurred by the Division in carrying out its duties under this subtitle; and

(2) deposit the amounts collected into the People’s Insurance Counsel Fund established under § 6–305 of this subtitle.

(b) The assessment payable by a medical professional liability insurer or homeowner’s insurer is the product of the fraction obtained by dividing the gross direct premium written by the medical professional liability insurer or homeowner’s insurer in the prior calendar year by the total amount of gross direct premium written by all medical professional liability insurers or homeowner’s insurers in the prior calendar year, multiplied by the amount of the total costs and expenses under subsection (a)(1) of this section.

(i) in addition to any penalties or premium tax imposed under the Insurance Article; and

(ii) due and payable to the Commissioner on or before a date determined by the Commissioner each year.

(2) (i) Failure by an insurer to pay an assessment fee on or before the due date shall subject the insurer to the provisions of §§ 4-113 and 4-114 of the Insurance Article.

(ii) In addition to the penalty imposed under subparagraph (i) of this paragraph, if an assessment fee is not paid on or before the due date, the Commissioner may impose a penalty of 5% of the amount due and interest at the rate determined under § 13-701(b)(1) of the Tax - General Article from the due date until payment is made to the Commissioner.

§ 6-305

(a) In this section, “Fund” means the People’s Insurance Counsel Fund.

(b) There is a People’s Insurance Counsel Fund.

(c) The purpose of the Fund is to pay all costs and expenses incurred by the Division in carrying out its duties under this subtitle.

(d) The Fund shall consist of:

(1) all revenue deposited into the Fund that is received through the imposition and collection of the assessment under § 6-304 of this subtitle; and

(2) income from investments that the State Treasurer makes for the Fund.

(e) (1) Expenditures from the Fund may be made only by:

(i) an appropriation from the Fund approved by the General Assembly in the annual State budget; or

(ii) the budget amendment procedure provided for in § 7-209 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.

(2) (i) If, in any fiscal year, the amount of the assessment revenue collected by the Commissioner and deposited into the Fund exceeds the actual costs and expenses incurred by the Division to carry out its duties under this subtitle, the excess amount shall be carried forward within the Fund for the purpose of reducing the assessment imposed by the Commissioner for the following fiscal year.

(ii) If, in any fiscal year, the amount of the assessment revenue collected by the Commissioner and deposited into the Fund is insufficient to cover the actual expenditures incurred by the Division to carry out its duties under this subtitle, and expenditures are made in accordance with the budget amendment procedure provided for in § 7-209 of the State Finance and Procurement Article, an additional assessment may be made.

(f) (1) The State Treasurer is the custodian of the Fund.

(2) The Fund shall be invested and reinvested in the same manner as State funds.

(3) The State Treasurer shall deposit payments received from the Commissioner into the Fund.

(g) (1) The Fund is a continuing, nonlapsing fund that is not subject to § 7-302 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.

(2) No part of the Fund may revert or be credited to:

(i) the General Fund of the State; or

(ii) a special fund of the State, unless otherwise provided by law.

§ 6-306

(a) (1) The Division shall evaluate each medical professional liability insurance and homeowner’s insurance matter pending before the Commissioner to determine whether the interests of insurance consumers are affected.

(2) If the Division determines that the interests of insurance consumers are affected, the Division may appear before the Commissioner and courts on behalf of insurance consumers in each matter or proceeding over which the Commissioner has original jurisdiction.

(b) (1) The Division shall review any rate increase of 10% or more filed with the Commissioner by a medical professional liability insurer or homeowner’s insurer.

(2) If the Division finds that the rate increase is excessive, inadequate, or unfairly discriminatory, the Division shall appear before the Commissioner on behalf of insurance consumers in any hearing on the rate filing.

(c) As the Division considers necessary, the Division shall conduct investigations and request the Commissioner to initiate an action or proceeding to protect the interests of insurance consumers.

§ 6-307

(a) In appearances before the Commissioner and courts on behalf of insurance consumers, the Division has the rights of counsel for a party to the proceeding, including the right to:

(1) summon witnesses, present evidence, and present argument;

(2) conduct cross-examination and submit rebuttal evidence; and

(3) take depositions in or outside of the State:

(i) in proceedings before the Commissioner, subject to regulation by the Commissioner to prevent undue delay; and

(ii) in proceedings in court, in accordance with the procedure provided by law or rule of court.

(b) The Division may appear before any federal or State tribunal or agency, in a judicial or administrative action, to protect the interests of insurance consumers.

(c) (1) Except as otherwise provided in the Insurance Article and any applicable freedom of information act, the Division shall have full access to the Commissioner’s records, including rate filings and supplementary rate information filed with the Commissioner by a medical professional liability insurer or homeowner’s insurer under Title 11 of the Insurance Article, and shall have the benefit of all other facilities or information of the Commissioner.

(2) The Division is entitled to the assistance of the Commissioner’s staff if:

(i) the staff determines that the assistance is consistent with the staff’s responsibilities; and

(ii) the staff and the Division agree that the assistance, in a particular matter, is consistent with their respective interests.

(d) The Division may recommend to the General Assembly legislation on any matter that the Division considers would promote the interests of insurance consumers.

§ 6-308

On or before January 1 of each year, the Division shall report to the Governor and, subject to § 2-1257 of this article, to the General Assembly on the activities of the Division during the prior fiscal year.

Subtitle 5

§ 6-501

In this subtitle, “Ombudsman” means the Special Education Ombudsman.

§ 6-502

(a) There is a Special Education Ombudsman in the Office of the Attorney General.

(b) The purpose of the Ombudsman is to serve as a resource to provide information and support to parents, students, and educators regarding special education rights and services.

§ 6-503

(a) The Attorney General shall appoint the Ombudsman.

(b) Salaries of the Ombudsman and staff under the Ombudsman and expenses related to the operation of the toll–free telephone number established under § 6–505 of this subtitle, rent, equipment, supplies, and general operations shall be as provided in the State budget.

(c) In cooperation with the Secretary of Budget and Management, the Attorney General shall set minimum salary, qualifications, and experience standards for the Ombudsman and any staff under the Ombudsman.

§ 6-504

(a) The Ombudsman shall:

(1) serve as a source of knowledge and information on the State and federal laws, rules, and regulations governing the education of students with disabilities for parents, students, educators, and interested members of the public;

(2) provide impartial information to the parents of students with disabilities on how to navigate the process of obtaining special education evaluations and services;

(3) provide impartial information to parents, public schools, and educators on the procedures for resolving disagreements and disputes regarding the provision of special education or disciplinary action taken against students with disabilities;

(4) explain to parents of children with disabilities the rights of parents and students and how the parents may avail themselves of those rights;

(5) work neutrally and objectively with all persons to ensure that the special education system functions as intended;

(6) identify any patterns of complaints made by parents of students with disabilities and inform the State Department of Education about any such pattern; and

(7) serve as a general resource for disability–related information and make referrals to available State and federal services and programs for individuals with disabilities.

(b) In performing the duties assigned under this section, the Ombudsman shall treat all communications as confidential and may reveal the details of any communication only if:

(1) necessary to achieve the Ombudsman’s duties; and

(2) done in accordance with applicable State and federal law.

§ 6-505

The Ombudsman shall arrange for a toll–free telephone number, available in English as well as other appropriate languages, to assist an individual seeking information or advice about special education.

§ 6-506

On or before July 1, 2022, and each July 1 thereafter, the Ombudsman shall, consistent with federal and State privacy laws and in accordance with § 2–1257 of this article, submit a report to the Senate Education, Health, and Environmental Affairs Committee and the House Committee on Ways and Means that includes:

(1) the number and type of calls received on the toll–free telephone number during the previous year;

(2) any patterns of complaints filed by parents identified under § 6–504(a)(7) of this subtitle;

(3) a summary of the services provided by the Ombudsman during the previous year; and

(4) any recommendations the Ombudsman determines are appropriate and necessary concerning the State’s implementation of special education services and procedures.

Subtitle 6

§ 6-601

(a) In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.

(b) “Division” means the Independent Investigations Division in the Office of the Attorney General.

§ 6-602

(a) There is an Independent Investigations Division within the Office of the Attorney General.

(b) (1) The Division is the primary investigative unit for police–involved incidents that result in the death of individuals or injuries likely to result in death.

(2) The Office of the Attorney General shall determine whether an incident is police–involved and whether an injury is likely to result in death.

(c) (1) The Division shall investigate all police–involved incidents that result in the death of an individual or injuries that are likely to result in the death of an individual.

(2) (i) Subject to subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph, a State’s Attorney may refer for investigation by the Division a police–involved incident resulting in serious bodily injury to an individual that is not otherwise within the jurisdiction of the Division under paragraph (1) of this subsection.

(ii) The Division may, in its discretion, decline to investigate an incident referred by a State’s Attorney under subparagraph (i) of this paragraph.

(3) The Division may investigate any other crime related to police misconduct that is discovered during an investigation under paragraph (1) or (2) of this subsection.

(d) In conducting an investigation under subsection (c) of this section, the Division may act with the full powers, rights, privileges, and duties of a State’s Attorney, including the use of a grand jury in any county.

(e) To investigate under this section alleged criminal offenses committed by police officers, the Division may:

(1) detail one or more police officers employed by the Department of State Police; and

(2) employ other civilian personnel as needed.

(f) On or before January 31 each year, the Division shall submit a report to the Governor and, in accordance with § 2–1257 of the State Government Article, the General Assembly on the activities of the Division in the prior calendar year, including:

(1) the number of investigations that were conducted by the Division; and

(2) the number of prosecutions that were initiated as a result of an investigation by or a referral to the Division.

(g) (1) The Governor annually shall include funding in the State budget sufficient to provide for the full and proper operation of the Division.

(2) Funds provided in accordance with this subsection shall supplement and may not supplant any other funding provided to the Division.

§ 6-603

(a) (1) For the limited purpose of furthering an ongoing criminal investigation under this subtitle, the Attorney General or a Deputy Attorney General or an assistant Attorney General designated in writing by the Attorney General may issue in any court in the State a subpoena to a person to produce telephone, business, government, or corporate records or documents.

(2) A subpoena issued under this subsection may be served in the same manner as a subpoena issued by a circuit court.

(b) (1) A person may have an attorney present during any contact made under subsection (a) of this section with the Attorney General or the Attorney General’s designee.

(2) The Attorney General or the Attorney General’s designee shall advise a person of the right to counsel when the subpoena is served.

(c) (1) (i) If a person fails to obey a lawfully served subpoena under subsection (a) of this section, the Attorney General or the Attorney General’s designee may report the failure to obey the subpoena to the circuit court with jurisdiction over the matter.

(ii) The Attorney General or the Attorney General’s designee shall provide a copy of the subpoena and proof of service to the circuit court.

(2) After conducting a hearing at which the person that allegedly failed to comply with a subpoena issued under subsection (a) of this section has had an opportunity to be heard and be represented by counsel, the court may grant appropriate relief.

(d) This section does not allow the contravention, denial, or abrogation of a privilege or right recognized by law.

§ 6-604

(a) (1) Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, if the Attorney General determines that an investigation conducted under § 6–602 of this subtitle provides sufficient grounds for the prosecution of a criminal offense discovered in the course of the investigation, the Attorney General shall have exclusive authority to prosecute the offense.

(2) The Attorney General, in the Attorney General’s discretion, may prosecute a police–involved incident not otherwise within the investigative jurisdiction of the Division under § 6–602(c) of this subtitle if the incident is referred by a State’s Attorney to the Attorney General for prosecution.

(b) A State’s Attorney may prosecute a criminal offense described in subsection (a)(1) of this section only if the Attorney General requests that the State’s Attorney prosecute the offense.

Subtitle 7

§ 6-701

(a) In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.

(b) “Chief Counsel” means the Chief Counsel of Environmental and Natural Resources Crimes.

§ 6-702

(a) (1) There is an Environmental and Natural Resources Crimes Unit of the Office of the Attorney General.

(2) The function of the Unit is to:

(i) investigate and prosecute cases against persons that violate State criminal environmental and natural resources laws; and

(ii) investigate and prosecute any other criminal offense discovered in the course of an investigation under this subtitle.

(3) In conducting an investigation and prosecuting cases under this subtitle, the Unit may act with the full powers, rights, privileges, and duties of a State’s Attorney, including the use of a grand jury in any county.

(b) (1) The Unit shall include:

(i) a full–time Chief Counsel of Environmental and Natural Resources Crimes; and

(ii) staff, including assistant attorneys general, investigators, and administrators, as provided in the State budget.

(2) Salaries of the Chief Counsel and staff, and expenses for rent, travel, equipment, supplies, and general operating expenses necessary for the work of the Unit shall be as provided in the State budget.

(3) In cooperation with the Secretary of Budget and Management, the Attorney General shall set minimum salaries, qualifications, and standards of training and experience for positions within the Unit.

(d) On or before November 30 each year, the Attorney General shall report to the Governor, and, in accordance with § 2–1257 of this article, the General Assembly on all the activities of the Unit and any actions taken by the Department of the Environment or the Department of Natural Resources in response to findings and recommendations of the Unit.

§ 6-703

(a) (1) For the limited purpose of furthering an ongoing criminal investigation under this subtitle, the Attorney General or a Deputy Attorney General or an assistant attorney general designated in writing by the Attorney General may issue in any court in the State a subpoena to a person to produce telephone, business, government, or corporate records or documents.

(2) A subpoena issued under this subsection may be served in the same manner as a subpoena issued by a circuit court.

(b) (1) A person may have an attorney present during any contact made under subsection (a) of this section with the Attorney General or an agent of the Attorney General.

(2) The Attorney General shall advise a person of the right to counsel when the subpoena is served.

(c) (1) (i) If a person fails to obey a lawfully served subpoena under subsection (a) of this section, the Attorney General may report the failure to obey the subpoena to the circuit court with jurisdiction over the matter.

(ii) The Attorney General shall provide a copy of the subpoena and proof of service to the circuit court.

(d) This section does not allow the contravention, denial, or abrogation of a privilege or right recognized by law.

Subtitle 8

§ 6-801

In this subtitle, “Commission” means the Commission on Hate Crime Response and Prevention.

§ 6-802

(a) There is a Commission on Hate Crime Response and Prevention in the Office of the Attorney General.

(b) The Commission consists of the following members, appointed by the Attorney General:

(1) 15 individuals who represent or advocate on behalf of individuals who are members of a protected class under the State hate crime laws as set forth in Title 10, Subtitle 3 of the Criminal Law Article appointed by the Attorney General with the advice and consent of the Senate;

(2) one representative of the Maryland Association of Human Relations/Human Rights Agencies;

(3) one representative of the Maryland Chiefs of Police Association;

(4) one representative of the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights;

(5) one representative of the Maryland Coordination and Analysis Center;

(6) one representative of the Maryland Center for School Safety;

(7) one representative of the Maryland Sheriffs’ Association;

(8) one representative of the Maryland State’s Attorneys’ Association;

(9) one representative of the Office of the Public Defender; and

(10) two members of the general public.

(2) The terms of the appointed members are staggered as required by the terms provided for members of the Commission on June 1, 2024.

(3) At the end of a term, an appointed member continues to serve until a successor is appointed and qualifies.

(4) A member who is appointed after a term has begun serves only for the rest of the term and until a successor is appointed and qualifies.

(d) (1) The Attorney General, or the Attorney General’s designee, is the chair of the Commission.

(2) The Office of the Attorney General shall provide staff for the Commission.

(e) In fiscal year 2025 and in each fiscal year thereafter, the Governor shall include funds in the State budget to implement this section, including funds to:

(1) employ a full–time assistant Attorney General to staff the Commission; and

(2) operate and maintain the office.

(f) (1) A majority of members of the Commission shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business.

(2) The Commission may adopt rules governing the administration and proceedings of the Commission.

(g) A member of the Commission:

(1) may not receive compensation as a member of the Commission; but

(2) is entitled to reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations, as provided in the State budget.

(h) The Commission shall:

(1) develop strategies to prevent and respond to hate crime activity; and

(2) evaluate State laws and policies relating to hate crimes.

(i) (1) On or before December 1 each year, beginning in 2024, the Commission shall report to the State Department of Education on policy recommendations to address hate crimes that occur in schools.

(2) On or before December 1 each year, beginning in 2024, the Commission shall report to the General Assembly, in accordance with § 2–1257 of this article, on legislative recommendations to address hate crimes in the State.

Subtitle 9

§ 6-901

(a) This section may not be construed to allow the contravention, denial, or abrogation of a privilege or right recognized by law.

(b) (1) For the limited purpose of furthering an ongoing health care fraud investigation under the Maryland False Health Claims Act or other civil authority, the Attorney General, a Deputy Attorney General, or an Assistant Attorney General designated in writing by the Attorney General may issue in any court in the State a subpoena requiring a person to:

(i) produce documentary material for inspection, copying, or reproduction;

(ii) answer, under oath and in writing, written interrogatories;

(iii) give sworn oral testimony; or

(iv) provide any combination of items (i), (ii), and (iii) of this paragraph.

(2) A subpoena issued under paragraph (1) of this subsection may be served in the same manner as a subpoena issued by a circuit court.

(c) (1) (i) If a person fails to obey a lawfully served subpoena issued under subsection (b) of this section, the Attorney General may report a failure to obey the subpoena to the circuit court with jurisdiction over the matter.

(ii) The Attorney General shall provide a copy of the subpoena and proof of service to the circuit court.

(2) After conducting a hearing at which the person who allegedly failed to comply with a subpoena issued under subsection (b) of this section has had an opportunity to be heard and be represented by counsel, the court may grant appropriate relief.

Title 6.5

Subtitle 1

§ 6.5-101

(a) In this title the following words have the meanings indicated.

(b) “Acquisition” means:

(1) a sale, lease, transfer, merger, or joint venture that results in the disposal of the assets of a nonprofit health entity to a for–profit corporation or entity or to a mutual benefit corporation or entity when a substantial or significant portion of the assets of the nonprofit health entity are involved or will be involved in the agreement or transaction;

(2) a transfer of ownership, control, responsibility, or governance of a substantial or significant portion of the assets, operations, or business of the nonprofit health entity to any for–profit corporation or entity or to any mutual benefit corporation or entity;

(3) a public offering of stock; or

(4) a conversion to a for–profit entity.

(d) “Department” means the Maryland Department of Health.

(e) “Health maintenance organization” has the meaning stated in § 19–701 of the Health – General Article.

(f) “Hospital” has the meaning stated in § 19–301 of the Health – General Article.

(g) “Nonprofit health entity” means:

(1) a nonprofit hospital;

(2) a nonprofit health service plan; or

(3) a nonprofit health maintenance organization.

(h) “Nonprofit health service plan” means a corporation without capital stock with a certificate of authority from the Insurance Commissioner to operate as a nonprofit health service plan or a nonprofit dental plan.

(i) “Public assets” includes:

(1) assets held for the benefit of the public or the community;

(2) assets in which the public has an ownership interest; and

(3) assets owned by a governmental entity.

(j) “Regulating entity” means:

(1) for an acquisition of a nonprofit hospital, the Attorney General in consultation with the Department;

(2) for an acquisition of a nonprofit health service plan, the Administration; and

(3) for an acquisition of a nonprofit health maintenance organization, the Administration.

(k) “Transferee” means the person in an acquisition that receives the ownership or control of the nonprofit health entity that is the subject of the acquisition.

(l) “Transferor” means the nonprofit health entity that is the subject of the acquisition, or the corporation that owns the nonprofit health entity that is the subject of the acquisition.

§ 6.5-102

A person may not engage in an acquisition of a nonprofit health entity unless the transferor and the transferee receive the approval of the appropriate regulating entity.

§ 6.5-103

(a) The Attorney General, the Department, and the Administration shall adopt regulations to carry out this title.

(b) The regulations adopted under subsection (a) of this section shall include provisions that establish hearing and appeal procedures.

§ 6.5-104

Nothing in this title shall impair the rights and powers of a court and the Attorney General with respect to any asset devoted to charity or with respect to any charitable trust.

Subtitle 2

§ 6.5-201

(a) (1) A person that seeks to engage in an acquisition of a nonprofit health entity shall submit an application to the appropriate regulating entity.

(2) The application submitted under paragraph (1) of this subsection shall be in addition to any other filing required by law.

(b) An application shall include:

(1) the name of the transferor;

(2) the name of the transferee;

(3) the names of any other parties to the acquisition agreement;

(4) the terms of the proposed acquisition, including the sale price;

(5) a copy of the acquisition agreement;

(6) a financial and community impact analysis report from an independent expert or consultant that addresses the criteria in § 6.5-301 of this title;

(7) an independent valuation of the nonprofit health entity that was obtained prior to the consideration of any bid or offer to acquire the nonprofit health entity;

(8) an antitrust analysis prepared by an appropriate expert; and

(9) any other documents related to the acquisition.

(c) (1) On request to the regulating entity, and subject to paragraphs (2), (3), and (4) of this subsection, an application and related documents shall be available for public inspection and copying.

(2) Except as provided in paragraphs (3) and (4) of this subsection or otherwise by law, all information and documents that are filed with the regulating entity in compliance with the requirements of this title or that are reported to, obtained by, or otherwise disclosed to the regulating entity or any other person in the course of an examination or investigation made under this title:

(i) are confidential material;

(ii) are not subject to subpoena; and

(iii) may not be made public by the regulating entity or any other person.

(3) Material that otherwise is confidential under paragraph (2) of this subsection may be made public by any person to whom the nonprofit health entity to which the material relates gives prior written consent.

(4) If, after giving a nonprofit health entity notice and an opportunity to be heard, the regulating entity determines that it is in the interest of the policyholders, stockholders, or the public to make public any material relating to the nonprofit health entity that otherwise is confidential under paragraph (2) of this subsection, the regulating entity may make public all or part of the material in an appropriate manner.

§ 6.5-202

(a) Within 10 working days after receiving an application, the appropriate regulating entity shall:

(1) publish notice of the application in the most widely circulated newspapers that are part of a nonprofit health entity’s service area; and

(2) notify by first-class mail any person that has requested in writing notice of the filing of an application.

(b) The notice under subsection (a) of this section shall:

(1) state that an application has been received;

(2) state the names of the parties to the acquisition;

(3) describe the contents of the application;

(4) state the date by which a person must submit written comments on the application; and

(5) provide the date, time, and place of the public hearing on the acquisition.

§ 6.5-203

(a) (1) As soon as practicable, but no later than 90 days after receiving a complete application, including all necessary expert reports, the appropriate regulating entity shall hold a public hearing.

(2) If the nonprofit health entity is a hospital, the regulating entity shall hold the public hearing in the jurisdiction in which the hospital is located.

(b) A public hearing under this section shall be a quasi–legislative hearing and not a contested case hearing.

(d) The regulating entity may:

(1) subpoena information and witnesses;

(2) require sworn statements;

(3) take depositions; and

(4) use related discovery procedures.

(e) (1) The regulating entity may contract with experts as reasonably necessary to:

(i) determine whether to approve an acquisition generally;

(ii) perform an independent valuation of the public or charitable assets of the transferor;

(iii) evaluate the impact of the acquisition on the affected community;

(iv) determine whether there has been due diligence by the transferor; and

(v) determine the existence of any conflicts of interest.

(2) The selection of an expert by a regulating entity under paragraph (1) of this subsection shall be subject to the State procurement laws.

(3) If a regulating entity contracts for expert assistance under paragraph (1) of this subsection, the transferee shall pay the reasonable cost of the expert assistance, as determined by the regulating entity.

(f) Within 60 days after the record, including the public hearing process, has been closed, the appropriate regulating entity shall:

(1) approve the acquisition, with or without modifications; or

(2) disapprove the acquisition.

(g) (1) Subject to paragraph (2) of this subsection, at its discretion, the regulating entity may extend for good cause for a 60–day period the time for making a determination under subsection (f) of this section.

(2) The regulating entity is limited to a maximum of two 60–day extensions for making a determination on the same application.

(h) (1) Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, a determination made by the appropriate regulating entity under subsection (f) of this section may not take effect until the earlier of:

(i) 90 calendar days after the date the determination is made; or

(ii) the date when ratified or rejected by the General Assembly.

(2) The appropriate regulating entity may waive the waiting period under paragraph (1)(i) of this subsection if the appropriate regulating entity determines that waiving the waiting period is in the best interest of the public.

Subtitle 3

§ 6.5-301

(a) The appropriate regulating entity may not approve an acquisition unless it finds the acquisition is in the public interest.

(b) An acquisition is not in the public interest unless appropriate steps have been taken to:

(1) ensure that the value of public or charitable assets is safeguarded;

(2) ensure that the value of public or charitable assets is spent in a manner that corresponds with the potential risk associated with the acquisition;

(3) ensure that:

(i) the fair value of the public or charitable assets of a nonprofit health service plan or a health maintenance organization will be distributed to the Maryland Health Care Trust established under § 6.5-401 of this title; or

(ii) 1. 40% of the fair value of the public or charitable assets of a nonprofit hospital will be distributed to the Maryland Health Care Trust established under § 6.5-401 of this title; and

2. 60% of the fair value of the public or charitable assets of a nonprofit hospital will be distributed to a public or nonprofit charitable entity or trust that is:

A. dedicated to serving the unmet health care needs of the affected community;

B. dedicated to promoting access to health care in the affected community;

C. dedicated to improving the quality of health care in the affected community; and

D. independent of the transferee;

(4) ensure that no part of the public or charitable assets of the acquisition inure directly or indirectly to an officer, director, or trustee of a nonprofit health entity; and

(5) ensure that no officer, director, or trustee of the nonprofit health entity receives any immediate or future remuneration as the result of an acquisition or proposed acquisition except in the form of compensation paid for continued employment with the acquiring entity.

(c) The regulating entity may determine that a distribution of assets of a nonprofit health entity is not required under this section if the transaction is:

(1) determined not to be an acquisition;

(2) in the ordinary course of business; and

(3) for fair value.

(d) In determining fair value, the appropriate regulating entity may consider all relevant factors, including, as determined by the regulating entity:

(1) the value of the nonprofit health entity or an affiliate or the assets of such an entity that is determined as if the entity had voting stock outstanding and 100% of its stock was freely transferable and available for purchase without restriction;

(2) the value as a going concern;

(3) the market value;

(4) the investment or earnings value;

(5) the net asset value; and

(6) a control premium, if any.

(e) (1) In determining whether an acquisition is in the public interest, the appropriate regulating entity shall consider:

(i) whether the transferor exercised due diligence in deciding to engage in an acquisition, selecting the transferee, and negotiating the terms and conditions of the acquisition;

(ii) the procedures the transferor used in making the decision, including whether appropriate expert assistance was used;

(iii) whether any conflicts of interest were disclosed, including conflicts of interest of board members, executives, and experts retained by the transferor, transferee, or any other parties to the acquisition;

(iv) whether the transferor will receive fair value for its public or charitable assets;

(v) whether public or charitable assets are placed at unreasonable risk if the acquisition is financed in part by the transferor;

(vi) whether the acquisition has the likelihood of creating a significant adverse effect on the availability or accessibility of health care services in the affected community;

(vii) whether the acquisition includes sufficient safeguards to ensure that the affected community will have continued access to affordable health care; and

(viii) whether any management contract under the acquisition is for fair value.

(2) In determining whether a nonprofit health entity has exercised due diligence as required under paragraph (1)(i) of this subsection, the appropriate regulating entity may not determine that due diligence was exercised unless the nonprofit health entity considered the risks of an acquisition, including whether an acquisition:

(i) would result in diseconomies of scale; or

(ii) would violate federal or State antitrust laws.

(f) The public or charitable assets distributed to a public or nonprofit charitable entity or trust in accordance with subsection (b)(2) of this section shall be in the form of cash.

(g) The appropriate regulating entity shall determine whether a payment by a nonprofit health entity, required under an agreement or contract for the acquisition of a nonprofit health entity if the agreement or contract is broken by the nonprofit health entity, is in the public interest.

§ 6.5-302

In determining whether to approve an acquisition of a nonprofit hospital, the Attorney General shall consider:

(1) the criteria listed in § 6.5-301 of this subtitle; and

(2) whether the affected community will have continued access to affordable health care.

§ 6.5-303

In determining whether to approve an acquisition of a nonprofit health service plan or a nonprofit health maintenance organization, the Administration shall consider:

(1) the criteria listed in § 6.5–301 of this subtitle; and

(2) whether the acquisition:

(i) is equitable to enrollees, insureds, shareholders, and certificate holders, if any, of the transferor;

(ii) is in compliance with Title 2, Subtitle 6 of the Corporations and Associations Article; and

(iii) ensures that the transferee will possess surplus in an amount sufficient to:

1. comply with the surplus required under law; and

2. provide for the security of the transferee’s certificate holders and policyholders.

§ 6.5-304

(a) A corporation that becomes a for-profit health entity under this title may not be deemed to have abandoned its corporate status by virtue of an acquisition unless the acquisition provides specifically to the contrary.

(b) The certificate of authority, agent appointments, licenses, forms, and any other filings in existence at the time of an acquisition shall continue in full force and effect upon an acquisition if a corporation at all times remains qualified to engage in business in the State.

(c) All outstanding contracts of a transferor shall remain in full force and effect and need not be otherwise endorsed unless ordered by the regulating entity.

§ 6.5-305

(a) The Secretary of the Department may revoke or suspend a license to operate a hospital in accordance with § 19-327 of the Health - General Article if an acquisition occurs without the approval of the Attorney General.

(b) An acquisition of a nonprofit health service plan or a nonprofit health maintenance organization may not occur without the approval of the Administration.

(d) If the Commissioner determines that a nonprofit health service plan or a nonprofit health maintenance organization is in violation of subsection (b) or (c) of this section, the Commissioner may, in addition to any other remedies authorized by law, require the following:

(1) the divestiture of the acquisition;

(2) that the entity fully comply with this title;

(3) that the entity file a plan for conversion to a for-profit entity as required under this title;

(4) that the certificate of authority of the entity to operate as a nonprofit health service plan or a nonprofit health maintenance organization in this State be revoked or suspended; or

(5) the payment of a penalty as provided for in § 4-113(d)(1) of the Insurance Article for each violation of subsection (b) or (c) of this section.

§ 6.5-306

(a) Before a public or nonprofit charitable entity or trust may receive a distribution of public or charitable assets in accordance with an agreement, contract, or transaction approved by the regulating entity under this subtitle, it shall have mechanisms in place to:

(1) avoid conflicts of interest; and

(2) prohibit the making of grants that would benefit:

(i) the public or nonprofit charitable entity’s or trust’s board of directors;

(ii) the public or nonprofit charitable entity’s or trust’s management;

(iii) the for-profit stock entity; or

(iv) a mutual entity.

(b) A public or nonprofit charitable entity or trust that receives a distribution of public or charitable assets shall submit an annual report to the office regarding the grant-making and other charitable activities of the entity related to its use of the public or charitable assets received.

(c) The annual report submitted under subsection (b) of this section shall be made available to the public at the principal office of the public or nonprofit charitable entity or trust.

§ 6.5-307

(a) This title does not apply to the acquisition of a foreign nonprofit health entity operating in this State if the appropriate regulating entity determines, based on the standards set forth in this title, that any public or charitable assets of the nonprofit health entity that serve health care needs in this State will be adequately protected.

(b) Any nonprofit health entity that the appropriate regulating entity has determined under subsection (a) of this section that this title does not apply shall submit an information copy of its application to engage in an acquisition to the regulating entity.

Subtitle 4

§ 6.5-401

(a) (1) There is a Maryland Health Care Trust.

(2) The Trust is a body corporate, subject to modification or termination by the General Assembly.

(3) The purpose of the Trust is to:

(i) be of general benefit to the residents of the State;

(ii) be charitable in nature; and

(iii) accept and retain money for future expenditures to be used to implement Acts of the General Assembly, other than the State budget bill, that:

1. improve the health status of residents of the State; and

2. specifically direct the use of assets of the Trust.

(4) Money expended from the Trust is supplemental to, and is not intended to take the place of, State funds that would otherwise be appropriated by the State for the improvement of the health care status of the residents of the State.

(b) (1) The State Treasurer shall be the trustee of the Trust.

(2) The powers and duties of the Trust shall rest in and be exercised by the trustee.

(d) In accordance with this title, the Trust consists of the public and charitable assets received as a result of the acquisition of a nonprofit health service plan or a nonprofit health maintenance organization, approved by the Administration on or after June 1, 2001, or a nonprofit hospital, approved by the Attorney General in consultation with the Department.

(e) (1) The State Treasurer shall manage, invest, and reinvest the Trust in the same manner that State funds are invested.

(2) The Trust shall be held and accounted for separate and apart from the funds of the State.

(f) Any interest or other investment earnings of the Trust shall be credited to and paid into the Trust.

(g) (1) The trustee shall make provision for a system of financial accounting, controls, audits, and reports.

(2) The trustee shall report to the Governor and, in accordance with § 2–1257 of this article, to the General Assembly on or before December 1, 2004, and annually thereafter on the status of the assets of the Trust.

Title 7

Subtitle 1

§ 7-101

(a) There is a Secretary of State, as provided in Article II, § 22 of the Maryland Constitution.

(b) The Secretary of State is in the Executive Department.

§ 7-102

(a) The Governor may appoint a Deputy Secretary of State.

(b) If the Secretary of State is absent from the seat of the State government or ill, the Deputy Secretary may carry out any duty that is imposed by law on the Secretary.

§ 7-103

In addition to the powers granted and duties imposed elsewhere, the Secretary of State has the powers and duties set forth in this subtitle.

§ 7-104

(a) This section does not apply to an agreement for the care, treatment, or supervision of 1 individual.

(b) Except as provided in subsection (c) of this section, a unit that enters into an international or interstate compact or other international or interstate agreement of general application, including an amendment to a compact or agreement, on behalf of the State, shall file a copy of the compact or agreement with the Division of State Documents in the Office of the Secretary of State.

(c) A unit need not file a copy of a compact or agreement under this section if the compact or agreement is part of the Annotated Code of Maryland.

(d) The Division of State Documents in the Office of the Secretary of State shall:

(1) keep an agreement or compact delivered under this section:

(i) until any limit that is set for the agreement or compact to become effective expires; and

(ii) if the agreement or compact becomes effective, until it is abrogated; and

(2) publish the agreement or compact in the Maryland Register.

(e) After keeping the agreement or compact for the time required under this section, the Division of State Documents may deliver the agreement or compact to the State Archives.

§ 7-105

(a) The Secretary of State shall:

(1) keep a book in which the Secretary records each commission that the Governor issues to a civil officer; and

(2) send the commission of each civil officer to the individual before whom the officer is to qualify.

(b) (1) The Secretary of State shall keep the records on qualification of civil officers that the clerks of court file as provided by law.

(2) The Secretary of State may certify to the qualification of a civil officer to the same extent that a clerk of court may certify.

§ 7-106

(a) The Secretary of State shall have a seal for the authentication of copies of records in the Office of the Secretary.

(b) Except as otherwise provided by law, the Secretary of State may charge a person:

(1) for the authentication of a copy of a record in the custody of the Secretary, a fee of not more than $5; and

(2) if the person does not provide the copy for authentication, 50 cents a page.

§ 7-107

The Secretary of State’s annual salary shall be:

(1) $112,500 for the first year of appointment beginning January, 2023;

(2) $116,000 starting on the first anniversary after appointment;

(3) $118,500 starting on the second anniversary after appointment; and

(4) $120,000 starting on the third anniversary after appointment and thereafter.

§ 7-108

(a) In this section, “affidavit” means a written statement:

(1) made to the best of the affiant’s knowledge, information, and belief; and

(2) the contents of which are affirmed under the penalties of perjury.

(b) A nonprofit association, corporation, or other organization that has been in existence for at least 5 years and promotes social welfare and general civic improvement may register with the Secretary of State as a community association by filing an affidavit that the organization meets the requirements of § 5-406(a)(7) of the Courts Article.

§ 7-109

The Office of the Secretary of State shall assume lead responsibility with respect to the maintenance and development of sister-state relationships.

Subtitle 2

§ 7-201

(a) In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.

(b) “Administrator” means the Administrator of the Division.

(d) “Committee” means the Joint Committee on Administrative, Executive, and Legislative Review.

(e) “Division” means the Division of State Documents.

(f) “Executive order” has the meaning stated in § 3-401 of this article.

(g) “Register” means the Maryland Register.

(h) “Regulation” has the meaning stated in § 10-101 of this article, unless the context clearly requires otherwise.

(i) (1) “Unit” means an officer or unit in the Executive Branch of the State government that is authorized by law to adopt regulations or to adjudicate contested cases.

(2) “Unit” does not include a board of license commissioners.

§ 7-202

There is a Division of State Documents in the Office of the Secretary of State.

§ 7-203

(a) The head of the Division is the Administrator, who shall be appointed by the Governor.

(b) (1) The Administrator holds office during good behavior.

(2) Subject to the hearing requirements of this subsection, the Governor may remove the Administrator for inefficiency, neglect of duty, or misconduct in office.

(3) Before the Governor removes the Administrator, the Governor shall:

(i) prepare written charges; and

(ii) give the Administrator a copy of the charges and an opportunity for public hearing.

(4) Notice of the hearing shall be given to the Administrator at least 10 days before the hearing.

(5) The Administrator may be represented at the hearing by counsel.

(c) The Administrator exercises the powers and performs the duties under this subtitle and Title 10, Subtitle 1 of this article subject to the general supervision of the Secretary of State.

§ 7-204

(a) The Division shall compile and edit:

(1) the Code of Maryland Regulations; and

(2) as a temporary supplement, the Maryland Register.

(b) Subject to the limitations in this subtitle, the Administrator is responsible for the publication and distribution of the Code of Maryland Regulations and the Register.

§ 7-205

(a) Except as otherwise provided by law, the Code of Maryland Regulations shall contain the text of:

(1) each executive order that is generally permanent in nature;

(2) each regulation;

(3) each document that the General Assembly requires to be published with a regulation; and

(4) unless otherwise privileged, each other document that the Committee permits to be published in the Code of Maryland Regulations.

(b) (1) At least once each year, the Division shall integrate into the Code of Maryland Regulations each document that:

(i) is required to be included in the Code of Maryland Regulations; and

(ii) has not previously been integrated or included in the Code of Maryland Regulations.

(2) This integration may be carried out by:

(i) publication of looseleaf pages for insertion in the Code of Maryland Regulations; or

(ii) other appropriate permanent supplements to the Code of Maryland Regulations.

(c) (1) Each part of the Code of Maryland Regulations and each issue of its permanent supplements shall contain a certification of the Administrator that the part or issue includes all of the documents that are effective and have been codified, as of the date set by the Administrator.

(2) Each issue of the permanent supplements shall contain its issue date, which shall be its date of deposit in the United States mail. This date shall appear prominently on the first page.

(d) (1) If the Committee permits a unit to publish a document in the Code of Maryland Regulations and publication otherwise would not be required, the Committee may require the unit to reimburse the Division for the cost of the publication.

(2) The Division shall bill for and collect the reimbursement.

§ 7-206

(a) An issue of the Register shall contain:

(1) on the first page:

(i) the closing date and hour of the issue; and

(ii) the issue date, which shall be the date of deposit in the United States mail and shall appear prominently;

(2) the text of each of the following documents that has been submitted to the Division before the closing date and hour and has not been published previously:

(i) during each session of the General Assembly:

1. a synopsis of each bill that is introduced; and

2. a synopsis of each bill that is enacted;

(ii) unless posted promptly on the website of the Maryland Judiciary:

1. each proposed rule of court that the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Maryland directs to be published;

2. each rule of court that the Supreme Court of Maryland adopts or permits to be adopted;

3. the hearing calendar of the Supreme Court of Maryland;

4. each administrative order or memorandum of the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Maryland or of the Administrative Office of the Courts that the Chief Justice directs to be published;

5. the hearing calendar of the Appellate Court of Maryland; and

6. each administrative regulation that the Chief Judge of the District Court adopts;

(iii) each executive order;

(iv) each designation of an official State agency under a federal program;

(v) except for notaries public and special police, a list of gubernatorial appointments that states:

1. the office;

2. the name of the appointee;

3. the county where the appointee resides;

4. the effective date of appointment;

5. the term of office; and

6. the salary;

(vi) for a proposed regulation:

1. the notice of the proposed adoption of the regulation; and

2. the text of the proposed regulation;

(vii) each notice of a public hearing that a unit issues;

(viii) unless otherwise exempted, each other document that is required by law to be published in the Code of Maryland Regulations;

(ix) each other document that is required to be published in the Register;

(x) each notice or other document issued by an agency of a county or municipal government that the Committee permits to be published in the Register; and

(xi) unless otherwise privileged, each other document that the Committee permits to be published in the Register;

(3) a table of contents; and

(4) an index to each title of the Code of Maryland Regulations that a document in the issue affects.

(b) (1) Each issue of the Register shall contain a certification of the Administrator that the issue contains all of the documents that have been submitted to the Division as of the closing date and hour of the issue.

(2) The certification of the Administrator in the Register is conclusive evidence of this fact.

(c) (1) If the Committee permits a unit or an agency of a county or municipal government to publish a document in the Register and publication otherwise would not be required, the Committee may require the unit or agency to reimburse the Division for the cost of the publication.

(2) The Division shall bill for and collect the reimbursement.

§ 7-206.2

(a) The Division may arrange for databases derived from publications issued by the Division to be made available to the public for direct online searching by contracting with third–party or value–added resellers.

(b) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Division shall make available to the public, at no cost, direct online searching of:

(1) the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR);

(2) at least the 15 most recent issues of the Maryland Register; and

(3) any other material the Division determines to be in the public interest.

(c) The receipt of any material made available to the public under the terms of subsection (b) of this section shall be preceded by a legend stating that:

“The information you are about to receive is made available for personal use only. By proceeding beyond this point you agree that you will not use the information for any prohibited commercial purpose, as defined in § 7–206.2(e) of the State Government Article, including, by way of example and not in limitation, the downloading of this information for resale in any other electronic or printed form.”.

(d) The legend referenced in subsection (c) of this section shall be presented to the recipient in a manner that affords the recipient an opportunity to refuse to access the material.

(e) (1) In this subsection, “prohibited commercial purpose” includes any use that involves the resale or other compensated transfer of information made available under subsection (b) of this section.

(2) “Prohibited commercial purpose” does not include the incorporation of portions of information made available under subsection (b) of this section into documents commenting upon or advising persons of the legal effect of that information, even though the person incorporating the information may be compensated for the comments or advice.

(3) Data or material obtained under subsection (b) of this section may not be used for any prohibited commercial purpose.

(f) A person who violates subsection (e) of this section is subject to a fine not exceeding $1,000 for each violation.

§ 7-207

(a) (1) Unless the Committee provides otherwise, the Code of Maryland Regulations and the Register may not reprint any text from:

(i) the Annotated Code of Maryland;

(ii) the Session Laws;

(iii) the United States Code;

(iv) the United States Statutes at Large;

(v) the Code of Federal Regulations;

(vi) the Federal Register; or

(vii) any other generally available publication that the Administrator specifies.

(2) State statutes as described under paragraph (1)(i) and (ii) of this subsection need not be incorporated by reference.

(3) (i) Federal laws as described under paragraph (1)(iii), (iv), (v), and (vi) of this subsection may be incorporated by reference.

(ii) Federal law incorporated by reference after October 1, 2005, shall be identified by using the phrase “incorporated by reference”.

(iii) The unit incorporating federal law may:

1. incorporate only a specified version of that law by specifying a date; or

2. incorporate future versions of that law by using the phrase “as amended”.

(4) (i) Other publications as described in paragraph (1)(vii) of this subsection may be incorporated by reference by:

1. satisfying the requirements of § 23–303 of the Education Article, except as determined by the Administrator; and

2. complying with Title 10, Subtitle 1 of this article and with other requirements specified by the Administrator.

(ii) Incorporated documents shall be identified by using the phrase “incorporated by reference”.

(iii) The incorporation shall specify an edition number, year, or other specific indication of the version being adopted.

(iv) Prospective incorporation is not permitted for this category of document.

(v) Agency generated documents have the additional requirement of providing the Division with an electronic version ready for publication on the Division website as required by § 7–206.2 of this subtitle.

(b) (1) If the Administrator determines that publication would be in the public interest, nothing in this section prohibits the Administrator from publishing factual information concerning:

(i) documents published or to be published in the Code of Maryland Regulations and the Register; or

(ii) the Code of Maryland Regulations and the Register.

(2) Notwithstanding any other provision of this subtitle or Title 10, Subtitle 1 of this article, the Code of Maryland Regulations and the Register may not include news material or a press release, speech, or other comment.

§ 7-208

(a) The Administrator may include in the Code of Maryland Regulations and the Register annotations of judicial decisions and other explanatory materials that relate to a document in the Code of Maryland Regulations or the Register.

(b) The Administrator may prepare the annotations or obtain them by contract.

§ 7-209

With the consent of the Attorney General, the Administrator may remove from the Code of Maryland Regulations:

(1) a provision of a regulation that a court of final appeal has declared to be unconstitutional; or

(2) a regulation if the unit that adopted the regulation has been abolished and the regulation does not transfer to a successor.

§ 7-210

(a) Except as otherwise provided in this section, an issue of the Register complying with the requirements of § 7-206 of this subtitle shall be published at least once every 2 weeks.

(b) (1) (i) To avoid a conflict with a State or national holiday, with the approval of the Committee, the Administrator may alter the publication date of an issue of the Register by not more than 3 days.

(ii) At least 30 days before a change of publication date occurs, the Administrator shall publish, as appropriate, notice of the change in the Register.

(2) The Committee may provide for more frequent publication of all or any part of the Register.

(2) For the Register, the last index for a calendar year shall be a cumulative index of that publication for that year.

(d) A supplement to the index to the Code of Maryland Regulations or a new index shall be published at least once a year.

§ 7-211

(a) Subject to the conditions that the Board of Public Works sets, the Administrator shall contract for the prompt printing and distribution of the Code of Maryland Regulations, including its permanent supplements, and the Register.

(b) The contract shall provide for a typographical arrangement that permits a unit or court to obtain, at reasonable cost, pamphlet reprints of the regulations of the unit or the rules of court that are published in the Code of Maryland Regulations.

§ 7-212

(a) (1) The Administrator may adopt a codification system and set editorial standards for the Code of Maryland Regulations and the Register, including a numbering system and captions or tag lines.

(2) The numbering system, captions, or tag lines are not part of the official text of a document.

(b) Except for rules of court, each document that is submitted for publication in the Code of Maryland Regulations and the Register shall conform to the codification system and editorial standards.

(c) After consultation with the unit that adopted a regulation, the Administrator may conform a regulation or other document to the codification system and editorial standards.

§ 7-213

(a) Except as provided in subsections (b) and (c) of this section and § 3–405(b) of this article, each document to be published in the Code of Maryland Regulations or the Register shall be submitted to the Administrator, who:

(1) for 1 year after the publication of the document, shall keep and permit inspection of the document; and

(2) then shall deliver the document to the State Archives.

(b) (1) The Clerk of the Supreme Court of Maryland shall submit to the Administrator:

(i) each rule of court that the Supreme Court of Maryland adopts or permits to be adopted; and

(ii) each administrative order or memorandum of the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Maryland or the Administrative Office of the Courts that the Chief Justice directs to be published.

(2) The Chief Clerk of the District Court shall submit to the Administrator each administrative regulation that the Chief Judge of the District Court adopts.

(c) The Administrator may require that any document required or permitted to be published in the Register be submitted electronically or on paper, or both.

§ 7-214

(a) This subtitle does not affect any other requirement as to notice, including a time that is specifically set for the publication of the notice.

(b) (1) A unit shall submit a notice that sets a date for a hearing or meeting or for the termination of the opportunity to be heard in time for publication in an issue of the Register that will be published:

(i) on or before the date set by law for publication of the notice; or

(ii) if the date for publication is not set by law, at least 15 days before the date for the hearing or meeting or for the termination of the opportunity to be heard.

(2) As to a notice that paragraph (1)(ii) of this subsection governs, publication of the notice less than 15 days before the date for a hearing or meeting or the termination of the opportunity to be heard does not prejudice the effectiveness of the notice, if notice of less than 15 days is reasonable.

(3) Unless notice by publication is insufficient in law, a notice that sets a date for a hearing or meeting or for the termination of the opportunity to be heard and that is submitted as required by this subsection constitutes, on publication, notice to:

(i) each person who resides in the State; or

(ii) each person who holds an interest in property in the State.

(c) Publication of a notice as required by this subtitle and as required by any other provision of the Code are both necessary to constitute full compliance with law.

§ 7-215

The Administrator may require a unit to reimburse the Division for the cost of a publication of a document in an issue of the Register if the unit submits, withdraws, or changes the document after the closing date and hour of that issue.

§ 7-216

(a) (1) The Committee shall adopt guidelines for the Administrator to:

(i) sell a subscription list for any publication of the Division; and

(ii) set the price for:

1. a copy of or a subscription to the Code of Maryland Regulations and the Register; and

2. a copy of a database or other computer readable information on magnetic tape or some other electronic media.

(2) The Committee may allow:

(i) a volume discount; and

(ii) the free, reciprocal exchange of publications by the State and other jurisdictions.

(b) A copy of the Code of Maryland Regulations and the Register shall be available to the public at the price set under this section.

(1) to each member of the General Assembly each issue of the Register;

(2) to the Enoch Pratt Library and the Thurgood Marshall State Law Library, 1 copy of:

(i) the Code of Maryland Regulations;

(ii) each issue of the permanent supplements to the Code of Maryland Regulations; and

(iii) each issue of the Register; and

(3) to a judge of a State court except the orphans’ court, 1 copy of:

(i) the current Code of Maryland Regulations; and

(ii) each issue of the Register that the judge requests.

(d) Unless authorized by the Committee, the Administrator may not allow public access to a document that is to be included in the Register earlier than the date immediately following the issue date of the Register in which the document is published.

§ 7-216.1

(a) There is a special fund in the Division of State Documents.

(b) The purpose of the fund is to pay the costs of publishing and distributing the products of the Division.

(d) (1) The fund is a special, nonlapsing fund that is not subject to § 7-302 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.

(2) The Treasurer shall hold the fund separately and the Comptroller shall account for the fund.

(e) The fund consists of revenue received by the Division in payment of its products.

(f) The fund may be used only for the expenses of production and distribution of its products and to support the operations of the Division.

(g) (1) The Treasurer shall invest the money in the fund in the same manner as other State money may be invested.

(2) Any investment earnings in the fund shall be credited to the General Fund of the State.

(h) Expenditures from the fund may be made only in accordance with the State budget.

(i) Money expended from the fund for the production and distribution of the Division’s products is supplemental to and is not intended to take the place of funding that otherwise would be appropriated for the production and distribution of the Division’s products.

§ 7-217

(a) The official text of a document is:

(1) until incorporation in the Code of Maryland Regulations, the text of the document in the most recent form in the Register; or

(2) after incorporation in the Code of Maryland Regulations, the text of the document in the most recent form in the Code of Maryland Regulations.

(b) Notwithstanding any discrepancy between the official text and any other text of a document, the official text is the only valid and enforceable text.

§ 7-218

(a) Subject to subsection (b) of this section, the Administrator shall correct an error in the official text of a document in the Code of Maryland Regulations or the Register by:

(1) inclusion of the correction in an errata list in the Register; or

(2) publication of a corrected form of the affected part of the document in the Code of Maryland Regulations or the Register.

(b) (1) An error that is made in publication of a document under this subtitle and that changes the legal effect of a provision of the document invalidates only:

(i) that provision; and

(ii) any other provision of the document that then is so incomplete that it cannot be carried out in accordance with the purpose of the document.

(2) If the error changes the legal effect of a proposed or adopted regulation, the regulation shall be published anew as provided in § 10-112 of this article.

§ 7-219

Unless notice by publication is insufficient in law or unless otherwise specifically provided by law, publication of a document under this subtitle gives a person who is subject to or affected by the document notice of the contents of the document.

§ 7-220

Publication of a document in the Code of Maryland Regulations or the Register creates a rebuttable presumption that:

(1) the document:

(i) was issued, prescribed, repealed, or adopted properly; and

(ii) if the document is a regulation, was approved as to legality by the Attorney General; and

(2) the requirements of this subtitle and of §§ 10-111(a), 10-112 through 10-117, and 10-129 of this article have been met.

§ 7-221

The provisions of a document in the Code of Maryland Regulations and the Register are severable, unless the document expressly states otherwise.

§ 7-222

A rule of court, administrative memorandum of a court, administrative order of a court, or administrative regulation of the Chief Judge of the District Court in the Code of Maryland Regulations or the Register has the effective date set in the document.

Subtitle 3

§ 7-301

(a) In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.

(b) “Actual address” means a residential street address, school address, or work address of an individual as specified on the individual’s application to be a Program participant under this subtitle.

(d) “Domestic violence” has the same meaning as “abuse” under § 4–501(b) of the Family Law Article.

(e) “Harassment” means a violation of § 3–803 of the Criminal Law Article.

(f) “Program” means the Address Confidentiality Program.

(g) “Program participant” means an individual designated as a Program participant under this subtitle.

(h) “Sexual assault” means a sexual crime under § 3–303 through § 3–310, § 3–314, § 3–315, or § 3–322 through § 3–325 of the Criminal Law Article, the sexual abuse of a minor under § 3–602 of the Criminal Law Article, or the sexual abuse of a vulnerable adult under § 3–604 of the Criminal Law Article.

(i) “Stalking” has the meaning stated in § 3–802 of the Criminal Law Article.

(j) “Survivor of human trafficking” means an individual who has been recruited, harbored, transported, provided, or obtained for labor, services, or a sexual act through the use of force, fraud, or coercion.

§ 7-302

The purpose of this subtitle is to enable:

(1) State and local agencies to respond to requests for public records without disclosing the location of a Program participant;

(2) interagency cooperation in providing address confidentiality for Program participants;

(3) State and local agencies and private entities to accept a Program participant’s use of an address designated by the Office of the Secretary of State as a substitute address; and

(4) a Program participant to use an address designated by the Office of the Secretary of State as a substitute address.

§ 7-303

The Secretary of State shall establish and administer an Address Confidentiality Program for survivors of threatened, attempted, or actual domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, harassment, or human trafficking.

§ 7-304

(a) The following individuals may apply to participate in the Program:

(1) an individual acting on the individual’s own behalf;

(2) a parent or guardian acting on behalf of a minor who resides with the parent or guardian;

(3) a guardian acting on behalf of a disabled person; or

(4) an individual who resides in the same household as an eligible applicant or Program participant.

(b) An application to participate in the Program shall be in the form required by the Secretary of State and shall contain:

(1) a statement that:

(i) the applicant is a survivor of threatened, attempted, or actual domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, harassment, or human trafficking; and

(ii) the applicant fears for the applicant’s safety, or the safety of the applicant’s child;

(2) evidence that the applicant is eligible for Program participation, including:

(i) certified law enforcement, court, or other federal or State agency records or files;

(ii) documentation from a domestic violence, sexual assault, or human trafficking prevention or assistance program;

(iii) documentation from a religious, medical, or other professional from whom the applicant has sought assistance or treatment as a survivor of threatened, attempted, or actual domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, harassment, or human trafficking; or

(iv) a statement from the applicant about the applicant’s subjective fear;

(3) a statement that disclosure of the applicant’s actual address would endanger the applicant’s safety or the safety of the applicant’s child;

(4) a knowing and voluntary designation of the Secretary of State as agent for purposes of service of process and receipt of first–class, certified, or registered mail;

(5) the mailing address and telephone number at which the applicant may be contacted by the Secretary of State;

(6) the actual address that the applicant requests not be disclosed by the Secretary of State because it would increase the risk of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, harassment, human trafficking, or other crimes;

(7) a statement as to whether there is any existing court order or pending court action involving the applicant and related to divorce proceedings, child support, child custody, or child visitation, and the identity of the court that issued the order or has jurisdiction over the action, if any;

(8) a sworn statement by the applicant that, to the best of the applicant’s knowledge, all the information contained in the application is true;

(9) the signature of the applicant and the date on which the applicant signed the application; and

(10) a voluntary release and waiver of all future claims against the State that may arise from participation in the Program except for a claim based on gross negligence.

1. review the application and release; and

2. if the application and release are properly completed and accurate, designate the applicant as a Program participant.

(ii) An applicant shall be a participant for 4 years from the date of filing unless the participation is canceled or withdrawn prior to the end of the 4–year period.

(2) A Program participant may withdraw from participation by filing a signed request for withdrawal with the Secretary of State.

§ 7-305

(a) If an applicant falsely attests in an application that disclosure of the applicant’s actual address would endanger the applicant’s safety or the safety of the applicant’s child or knowingly provides false information when applying for participation or renewal of participation in the Program, the applicant shall no longer be allowed to participate in the Program.

(b) A person may not knowingly make a false attestation or knowingly provide false information in an application in violation of subsection (a) of this section.

(c) A person who violates subsection (b) of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 6 months or a fine not exceeding $500 or both.

§ 7-306

(a) If a Program participant obtains a legal name change, the Program participant shall notify the Secretary of State within 30 days and provide the Secretary of State with a certified copy of any judgment or order evidencing the change or any other documentation the Secretary of State considers to be sufficient evidence of the change.

(b) If a Program participant makes a change in address or telephone number from an address or a telephone number listed on the Program participant’s application, the Program participant shall notify the Secretary of State at least 7 days before the change occurs.

§ 7-307

(a) The Secretary of State may cancel the participation of a Program participant if:

(1) the Program participant fails to notify the Secretary of State of any legal name change or change in address or telephone number in the manner required by § 7–306 of this subtitle;

(2) the Program participant files a request for withdrawal of participation under § 7–304(c)(2) of this subtitle;

(3) the Program participant submits false information in applying for participation in the Program in violation of § 7–305 of this subtitle;

(4) the Secretary of State forwards mail to the Program participant and the mail is returned as undeliverable; or

(5) the Secretary of State determines that the Program participant’s actual address is readily accessible to the general public.

(b) The Secretary of State shall send notice of any cancellation of participation in the Program to the participant and shall set forth the reason for cancellation.

(c) A Program participant may appeal any cancellation decision by filing an appeal with the Secretary of State within 30 days after the date of the notice of cancellation in accordance with procedures developed by the Secretary of State.

(d) (1) An individual who ceases to be a Program participant is responsible for notifying any person who uses the substitute address designated by the Secretary of State that the substitute address is no longer valid.

(2) If an individual has requested the shielding of property records in accordance with Title 3, Subtitle 1, Part II of the Real Property Article, the Secretary of State shall give written notice to the clerk of the circuit court within 30 days after the individual ceases to be a Program participant.

§ 7-308

(a) (1) A Program participant may make a request to any person or State or local agency to use a substitute address designated by the Secretary of State as the Program participant’s address.

(2) Subject to subsections (b) and (d) of this section, when a Program participant has made a request to a person or State or local agency under this subsection, the person or agency shall use the substitute address designated by the Secretary of State as the Program participant’s address.

(b) (1) (i) When a Program participant presents the address designated by the Secretary of State to any person, that address must be accepted as the address of the Program participant.

(ii) A person may not require a Program participant to submit any address that could be used to physically locate the Program participant either as a substitute or in addition to the designated address, or as a condition of receiving a service or benefit, unless the service or benefit would be impossible to provide without knowledge of the Program participant’s physical location.

(2) A bank, a credit union, any other depository institution, or any other financial institution within the meaning of § 1–101 of the Financial Institutions Article may require a request made under subsection (a) of this section to be in writing and on a form prescribed by the Secretary of State identifying an individual as a Program participant.

(c) A Program participant who acquires an ownership interest in real property while participating in the Program may request the shielding of real property records concerning the property in accordance with Title 3, Subtitle 1, Part II of the Real Property Article.

(d) (1) A State or local agency that has a bona fide statutory or administrative requirement for using a Program participant’s actual address may apply to the Secretary of State for a waiver from the requirements of the Program.

(2) If the Secretary of State approves the waiver, the State or local agency shall use the Program participant’s actual address only for the required statutory or administrative purposes.

§ 7-309

(a) (1) Each local board of elections shall use a Program participant’s actual address for all election–related purposes.

(2) A Program participant may not use the substitute address designated by the Secretary of State as the Program participant’s address for voter registration purposes.

(b) A local board of elections may not make a Program participant’s address contained in voter registration records available for public inspection or copying except:

(1) on request by a law enforcement agency for law enforcement purposes; and

(2) as directed by a court order to disclose the address.

§ 7-310

(a) Except as otherwise provided by this subtitle, a record of a Program participant’s actual address and telephone number maintained by the Secretary of State or a State or local agency is not a public record within the meaning of § 4–101 of the General Provisions Article.

(b) The Secretary of State may not disclose a Program participant’s actual address or telephone number or substitute address except as provided in subsection (c) of this section and:

(1) (i) on request by a law enforcement agency for law enforcement purposes; and

(ii) as directed by a court order; or

(2) on request by a State or local agency to verify a Program participant’s participation in the Program or substitute address for use under § 7–308 of this subtitle.

(c) The Secretary of State shall notify the appropriate court of a Program participant’s participation in the Program and of the substitute address designated by the Secretary of State if the Program participant:

(1) is subject to a court order or an administrative order;

(2) is involved in a court action or an administrative action; or

(3) is a witness or a party in a civil or criminal proceeding.

§ 7-311

(a) (1) A person may not knowingly and intentionally obtain a Program participant’s actual address or telephone number from the Secretary of State, the clerk of a circuit court, or any agency without authorization to obtain the information.

(2) A person may not knowingly and intentionally seek and obtain a Program participant’s actual address or telephone number from any other person if, at the time of obtaining the information, the person has specific knowledge that the actual address or telephone number belongs to a Program participant.

(b) (1) This subsection applies only when a person:

(i) obtains a Program participant’s actual address or telephone number during the course of the person’s employment; and

(ii) at the time of disclosure, has specific knowledge that the actual address or telephone number belongs to a Program participant.

(2) A person may not knowingly and intentionally disclose a Program participant’s actual address or telephone number to another person unless the disclosure is authorized by law, including as authorized by subsection (c) of this section.

(c) (1) If an individual who is a Program participant notifies a person in writing on a form prescribed by the Secretary of State that states the requirements of the Program and that the individual is a Program participant, the person may not knowingly disclose the Program participant’s name, home address, work address, or school address unless:

(i) the person to whom the address is disclosed also lives, works, or goes to school at the disclosed address; or

(ii) the Program participant has provided written consent to the disclosure of the Program participant’s name, home address, work address, or school address for the purpose for which the disclosure will be made.

(2) The person to whom written consent is provided under paragraph (1)(ii) of this subsection:

(i) may require the consent to be in a particular form acceptable to the person and the Program participant; and

(ii) shall limit any disclosure to only those disclosures that are necessary for the purpose for which the consent is provided.

(3) A person that receives notice as provided under paragraph (1) of this subsection is presumed to have specific knowledge that the disclosed home address, work address, or school address belongs to the Program participant.

(d) A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to a fine not exceeding $2,500.

§ 7-312

(a) (1) In this section, “notice” means, for a person described in § 7–308(b)(2) of this subtitle, receipt of written notification on a form prescribed by the Secretary of State identifying an individual as a Program participant.

(2) “Notice” includes receipt of written notification on a form prescribed by the Secretary of State identifying an individual as a Program participant.

(b) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, service of process on an individual by a person or an agency that has received notice that the individual is a Program participant shall be made in accordance with this section.

(1) in person on the Program participant; or

(2) by mail on the Secretary of State.

(d) If service by publication is required, service is valid if:

(1) the publication omits the name of the Program participant; and

(2) the Secretary of State has been served in accordance with subsection (c)(2) of this section.

§ 7-313

The Secretary of State shall adopt regulations to carry out the provisions of this subtitle.

Title 8

Subtitle 1

§ 8-101

In this subtitle, “Council” means the Governor’s Executive Council.

§ 8-102

There is a Governor’s Executive Council.

§ 8-103

The Council includes:

(1) the Governor;

(2) the Lieutenant Governor;

(3) the Secretary of State;

(4) the secretary of each principal department of the Executive Branch of the State government;

(5) the State Superintendent of Schools; and

(6) the Secretary of Higher Education.

§ 8-104

The purposes of the Council are coordination and effective direction and supervision of the State government.

§ 8-105

The Governor may appoint an executive secretary for the Council.

Subtitle 2

§ 8-201

(a) The Executive Branch of the State government shall have not more than 22 principal departments, each of which shall embrace a broad, functional area of that Branch.

(b) The principal departments of the Executive Branch of the State government are:

(1) Aging;

(2) Agriculture;

(3) Budget and Management;

(4) Commerce;

(5) Disabilities;

(6) Emergency Management;

(7) the Environment;

(8) General Services;

(9) Health;

(10) Housing and Community Development;

(11) Human Services;

(12) Information Technology;

(13) Juvenile Services;

(14) Labor;

(15) Natural Resources;

(16) Planning;

(17) Public Safety and Correctional Services;

(18) Service and Civic Innovation;

(19) Social and Economic Mobility;

(20) State Police;

(21) Transportation; and

(22) Veterans and Military Families.

§ 8-202

(a) (1) Unless placed by law or expressly exempted from placement by law, the officers and units in the Executive Branch of the State government that are not principal departments may be placed by the Governor in any principal department.

(2) Unless expressly exempted from placement by law, an interstate, regional, or other intergovernmental unit in which the State participates shall be placed in the appropriate principal department.

(b) Notwithstanding the placement of a unit in a principal department:

(1) the powers and duties that are assigned by law to the unit are not changed;

(2) a State officer or State employee who is not in the State Personnel Management System and is transferred with the unit remains exempt from the provisions of the State Personnel and Pensions Article unless the officer or the employee is placed in the State Personnel Management System in accordance with those provisions; and

(3) the head of a unit who is in the State Personnel Management System or holds the position other than at the pleasure of the Governor does not cease to be in the State Personnel Management System or to hold the position other than at the pleasure of the Governor.

§ 8-203

(a) The head of each principal department is a secretary, who shall be appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Senate.

(b) The Governor shall select, on the bases of professional and administrative knowledge and experience, a secretary who has the qualifications required by law.

(c) Unless otherwise provided by law, the secretary of a principal department or, with the approval of the Governor, a designee of the secretary shall represent the State and coordinate its participation in an interstate, regional, or other intergovernmental unit that is in the department.

§ 8-204

Under the direction of the Governor, the secretaries of the principal departments are responsible for the prevention and elimination of duplication and overlapping of activities in and among their departments, by coordinating those activities.

§ 8-205

(a) The secretary of each principal department serves at the pleasure of the Governor unless otherwise provided by law.

(b) A secretary shall:

(1) receive the salary and have the assistants, employees, and professional consultants provided in the budget, unless otherwise provided by law;

(2) be responsible for establishing policy to be followed by the units of State government within the secretary’s department;

(3) be responsible for the efficient and orderly administration of the department;

(4) be responsible for the comprehensive planning of programs and services within the secretary’s jurisdiction and for reviewing and approving the plans of all units of State government within the secretary’s jurisdiction;

(5) notwithstanding any other provision of law, and except as provided in § 1–203(c) of the Health Occupations Article, be responsible for the supervision of the units of State government within the secretary’s jurisdiction that are composed in whole or in part of individuals participating in the occupation or profession regulated by the units;

(6) be responsible for the budget of the secretary’s office and for the budgets of other units of State government within the secretary’s jurisdiction;

(7) be responsible for the organization of the secretary’s office and for recommending to the Governor changes in the organization and placement of units of State government within the secretary’s jurisdiction; and

(8) recommend to the Governor any modification, abolition, and transfer of advisory bodies within the secretary’s jurisdiction.

(1) appoint officers and employees in the secretary’s office as provided in the budget and review the personnel action taken by any unit of State government within the secretary’s jurisdiction; and

(2) create the citizen advisory bodies that may be necessary for the operation of the secretary’s department.

§ 8-205.1

(a) Except as provided in § 1–203(c) of the Health Occupations Article, the secretary of each principal department shall supervise each unit of State government within the secretary’s jurisdiction that is composed in whole or in part of individuals participating in the occupation or profession regulated by the unit in order to:

(1) prevent unreasonable anticompetitive actions by the unit; and

(2) determine whether the decisions and actions of the unit further a clearly articulated State policy to displace competition in the regulated market.

(b) If the secretary or the secretary’s designee finds that a proposed decision or action of the unit may result in an unreasonable anticompetitive decision or may not further a clearly articulated State policy to displace competition in the regulated marketplace, the secretary or the secretary’s designee shall:

(1) review the merits of the proposed decision or action;

(2) assess whether the proposed decision or action furthers a clearly articulated State policy to displace competition in the regulated market; and

(3) issue expeditiously a written decision approving, disapproving, or modifying the proposed decision or action or remanding the proposed decision or action back to the unit for further review before:

(i) a final decision is issued; or

(ii) the proposed action is implemented.

(c) The secretary or the secretary’s designee may not approve a decision or an action of a unit that does not further a clearly articulated State policy to displace competition in the regulated market.

(d) A decision or an action of a unit may not constitute a final decision or action of the unit until after the secretary or the secretary’s designee has conducted the review required under subsection (b) of this section.

(e) A final decision or action of a unit shall comply with the written decision of the secretary or the secretary’s designee issued in accordance with subsection (b) of this section.

(f) Neither the secretary nor the secretary’s designee may be an individual who is appointed by, under the oversight of, or a member of a board or commission whose decision or action is the subject of review under subsection (b) of this section.

(g) A regulation adopted to carry out this section shall be drafted in consultation with stakeholders and other interested parties.

§ 8-206

The secretary of each principal department has authority and responsibility to adopt regulations for all units within the secretary’s jurisdiction, except as otherwise provided by law.

Subtitle 3

§ 8-301

(a) The Governor is responsible for a continuing review of the organization of the Executive Branch of the State government.

(b) (1) In addition to any reorganization under Article II, § 24 of the Maryland Constitution, the Governor may order any other reorganization of the Executive Branch that is considered by the Governor to be necessary and desirable and that is not inconsistent with law.

(2) A reorganization under this subsection may include:

(i) the reorganization of the principal departments;

(ii) the placement of a unit in a principal department; and

(iii) the transfer of a unit or function from 1 principal department to another.

(3) A reorganization under this subsection may be effected through the issuance of an executive order or the approval of a recommendation that the secretary of a principal department submits. An approval shall be treated as an executive order. However, notwithstanding any other provision of law, the recommendation is not effective unless approved or issued as an executive order.

(c) (1) Notwithstanding any other law that relates to organization of the Executive Branch of the State government, if a program involves more than 1 principal department and cannot be carried out efficiently through cooperation of the departments, the Governor may establish a task force to integrate the services of the departments so as to carry out the program.

(2) A task force established under this subsection may exist for not more than 1 year unless the Governor expressly extends the existence of the task force.

(d) The Governor shall recommend to the General Assembly the placement of any new program or new unit within an appropriate principal department.

§ 8-302

Each secretary of a principal department is responsible for recommending to the Governor:

(1) any change in the organization, placement, or name of a unit in the department;

(2) any change, abolition, or transfer of an advisory body in the department; and

(3) any centralization or coordination of administrative staff or clerical services in the department, for efficiency and effectiveness.

§ 8-303

If the name of a unit in the Executive Branch of the State government is set by statute, the name may be changed only by another statute.

§ 8-304

The Governor shall:

(1) make the designation of a unit as the official State agency for participation in a federal program by a written designation that includes the name of the unit and of the program;

(2) give the General Assembly notice of the designation; and

(3) deliver a copy of the designation to the Administrator of the Division of State Documents.

§ 8-305

The secretary of each principal department and the head of each other unit in the Executive Branch of the State government that is not in a principal department shall include on the website for the department or unit:

(1) an organizational chart that:

(i) shows the major subunits in the unit; and

(ii) lists the name and title of each individual who heads a subunit; and

(2) a concise description of the department or unit and each subunit.

§ 8-306

(a) (1) In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.

(2) (i) “Change the use, purpose, or function” means an abrupt and material change in the type of clients or incarcerated individuals served in a facility, the licensed purpose of a facility, or the principal activities carried out within a facility.

(ii) “Change the use, purpose, or function” does not mean a gradual change in clients, incarcerated individuals, or activities due to societal trends or needs.

(iii) “Change the use, purpose, or function” does not include closing a State facility.

(3) “Close a State facility” means to cease, discontinue, or substantially eliminate activities carried out within the State facility.

(4) “Exclusive representative” has the meaning stated in § 3–101 of the State Personnel and Pensions Article.

(5) (i) “Public hearing” means an informational hearing, the sole purpose of which is to obtain public comment and answer public questions.

(ii) “Public hearing” does not mean a contested case hearing under Title 10, Subtitle 2 of this article.

(6) “State facility” means:

(i) a facility that is owned, leased, or operated by the State for the purpose of providing health, juvenile, or correctional services to clients or incarcerated individuals; or

(ii) a facility to which 25 or more State employees are regularly assigned.

(b) (1) A principal department of the Executive Branch of the State government may not change the use, purpose, or function of a State facility without complying with the requirements of subsection (c) of this section.

(2) A principal department of the Executive Branch of the State government may not close a State facility without complying with the requirements of subsection (d) of this section.

(c) (1) Subject to paragraph (3) of this subsection, before a principal department changes the use, purpose, or function of a State facility, the principal department shall:

(i) hold a public hearing; and

(ii) at least 90 days before the public hearing, give notice to:

1. the public, on the principal department’s website and by press release;

2. any member of the General Assembly in whose district the State facility is located, by e–mail and certified mail; and

3. any exclusive representative with bargaining unit employees assigned to the State facility, by e–mail and certified mail.

(2) The principal department shall, at least 30 days before the public hearing, give notice of the hearing:

(i) to the public, on the principal department’s website and by press release;

(ii) to each member of the General Assembly in whose district the facility is located, by e–mail and certified mail; and

(iii) to any exclusive representative with bargaining unit employees assigned to the State facility, by e–mail and certified mail.

(3) If a government agency or judicial body determines that there is an emergency situation that poses a risk to the health or safety of patients, incarcerated individuals, residents, or employees of a State facility, the principal department may modify the timelines required by this subsection, provided that any modifications made by the principal department shall provide the notice, hearing, and opportunity for comment required by this subsection at the earliest possible date, unless ordered otherwise by the government agency or judicial body.

(d) (1) Subject to paragraph (3) of this subsection, before a principal department closes a State facility, the principal department shall:

(i) hold a public hearing;

(ii) at least 180 days before the public hearing, give notice to:

1. the public, on the department’s website and by press release;

2. each member of the General Assembly representing the district in which the State facility is located, by e–mail and certified mail; and

3. any exclusive representative with bargaining unit employees assigned to the State facility, by e–mail and certified mail;

(iii) submit a report explaining the closure to the Governor and, in accordance with § 2–1257 of the State Government Article:

1. the Senate Finance Committee;

2. the Senate Budget and Taxation Committee;

3. the House Health and Government Operations Committee; and

4. the House Appropriations Committee;

(iv) at least 270 days before holding the public hearing, make the report required by this paragraph publicly available; and

(v) at least 90 days before holding the public hearing, allow each exclusive representative and a committee listed under item (iii) of this paragraph that receives the report required by this subsection to submit comments on the report.

(2) The report required under paragraph (1)(iii) of this subsection shall address:

(i) the reasons for the closure;

(ii) the plan for continuing or discontinuing the State facility’s operations;

(iii) the anticipated budgetary impact of the closure;

(iv) any plans for assisting State employees affected by the closure in finding other employment;

(v) any plans for assisting the patients, incarcerated individuals, or residents affected by the closure; and

(vi) any plans for the State facility after the closure.

(e) (1) Before a principal department leases or purchases land, buildings, or office space to be used for the purpose of providing health, juvenile, or correctional services to clients or incarcerated individuals, the principal department shall give written notice of the proposed use of the land, buildings, or office space to each member of the General Assembly in whose legislative district the property is located.

(2) (i) A member of the General Assembly may request that the department hold a public hearing on the proposed use.

(ii) The department on whose behalf the property is being procured or leased shall hold a public hearing on the proposed use upon the request of a member of the General Assembly.

(iii) The department shall give notice of the hearing to the public as provided in subsection (c)(2)(i) of this section.

(f) (1) If, after a principal department ceases its use of a State facility, the principal department or any other principal department plans to recommence operation of the facility as a State facility, and the proposed operation of the facility would change its use, purpose, or function, the principal department shall hold a public hearing on the proposed operation.

(2) The principal department shall give notice of the hearing to the public as provided in subsection (c)(2)(i) of this section.

(g) Nothing in this section shall be construed to alter or diminish an exclusive representative’s right to bargain.

Subtitle 3A

§ 8-3A-01

(a) (1) In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.

(2) “Appointing authority” has the meaning stated in § 1–101(b) of the State Personnel and Pensions Article.

(3) “Office” means the Appointments Office in the Office of the Governor that performs the function of recommending to the Governor the appointment or nomination of an individual to serve as a member of a State or local board, commission, council, committee, authority, task force, or other entity that by law requires the membership to be appointed in whole or in part by the Governor, whether or not the appointment or nomination is with the advice and consent of the Senate or House of Delegates.

(b) The Office may not direct, overrule, or otherwise take any action regarding the decision of an appointing authority, the Secretary of Budget and Management, or any unit of the Department of Budget and Management to appoint, promote, transfer, reassign, discipline, or terminate an employee under the jurisdiction of the appointing authority.

(c) Only an appointing authority may delegate in writing the authority to act on the appointing authority’s behalf, but only to an employee or officer under the jurisdiction of the appointing authority.

(d) An appointing authority may not delegate the authority to make the final decision on the termination of an employee.

(e) An appointing authority shall notify the Secretary of Budget and Management of any delegation of authority authorized under this section by providing the Secretary a copy of the delegation.

§ 8-3A-02

(a) On or before December 1 of each gubernatorial election year:

(1) the Secretary of Budget and Management shall compile a list of the position, pay grade, and title of each employee in the State Personnel Management System who is employed with regard to political affiliation, belief, or opinion under § 4–201(c)(2)(ii) of the State Personnel and Pensions Article; and

(2) the Secretary of Transportation shall compile a list of the position, pay grade, and title of each employee in the Maryland Department of Transportation’s Human Resource System who is employed with regard to political affiliation, belief, or opinion under § 2–103.4(b)(2)(ii) of the Transportation Article.

(b) The Secretary of Transportation shall provide the list of employees required under subsection (a)(2) of this section to the Secretary of Budget and Management on or before December 15 of each gubernatorial election year.

(c) In accordance with § 2–1257 of this article, on or before December 31 of each gubernatorial election year, the Secretary of Budget and Management shall submit a report to the Governor, the President of the Senate, and the Speaker of the House of Delegates on the total number of State employees employed with regard to political affiliation, belief, or opinion under this section.

Subtitle 4

§ 8-401

(a) In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.

(d) “Evaluation” means the process of legislative review of a governmental activity or unit used to determine:

(1) whether the governmental activity or unit should be reestablished or terminated; and

(2) what, if any, statutory or nonstatutory changes should be recommended to the General Assembly to improve the operations of the governmental activity or unit.

(e) “Governmental activity” means a program, service, or other function of government.

(f) “Office” means the office in the Department of Legislative Services designated by the Executive Director of the Department.

§ 8-402

(a) The General Assembly finds that:

(1) a framework that allows for periodic, legislative review of the regulatory, licensing, and other governmental activities of the Executive Branch of the State government is essential for the maintenance of a government in which the citizens have confidence and of a healthy State economy; and

(2) this legislative review is consistent with other activities and goals of the General Assembly.

(b) The purposes of this subtitle are to:

(1) establish a system of legislative review that will:

(i) determine whether a governmental activity is necessary for the public interest; and

(ii) make units that are responsible for necessary governmental activities accountable and responsive to the public interest; and

(2) ensure that the legislative review takes place by establishing, by statute, a process for the review and other legislative action.

§ 8-403

This subtitle applies only to the following governmental activities and units:

(1) Acupuncture Board, State (§ 1A–201 of the Health Occupations Article);

(2) Amusement Ride Safety, State Advisory Board (§ 3–303 of the Business Regulation Article);

(3) Apprenticeship and Training Council (§ 11–403 of the Labor and Employment Article);

(4) Architects, State Board of (§ 3–201 of the Business Occupations and Professions Article);

(5) Athletic Commission, State (§ 4–201 of the Business Regulation Article);

(6) Audiologists, Hearing Aid Dispensers, and Speech–Language Pathologists, State Board of Examiners for (§ 2–201 of the Health Occupations Article);

(7) Barbers, State Board of (§ 4–201 of the Business Occupations and Professions Article);

(8) Behavior Analyst Advisory Committee (§ 17–6A–05 of the Health Occupations Article);

(9) Boiler Rules, Board of (§ 12–904 of the Public Safety Article);

(10) Cemetery Oversight, Office of (§ 5–201 of the Business Regulation Article);

(11) Chiropractic Examiners, State Board of (§ 3–201 of the Health Occupations Article);

(12) Collection Agency Licensing Board, State (§ 7–201 of the Business Regulation Article);

(13) Community Health Resources Commission, Maryland (§ 19–2102 of the Health – General Article);

(14) Cosmetologists, State Board of (§ 5–201 of the Business Occupations and Professions Article);

(15) Counselors and Therapists, State Board of Professional (§ 17–201 of the Health Occupations Article);

(16) Dental Examiners, State Board of (§ 4–201 of the Health Occupations Article);

(17) Dietetic Practice, State Board of (§ 5–201 of the Health Occupations Article);

(18) Electricians, State Board of Master (§ 6–201 of the Business Occupations and Professions Article);

(19) Elevator Safety Review Board (§§ 12–819 through 12–841 of the Public Safety Article);

(20) Engineers, State Board for Professional (§ 14–201 of the Business Occupations and Professions Article);

(21) Engineers, State Board of Stationary (§ 6.5–201 of the Business Occupations and Professions Article);

(22) Environmental Health Specialists, State Board of (§ 21–201 of the Health Occupations Article);

(23) Financial Regulation, Office of (§ 2–101 of the Financial Institutions Article);

(24) Foresters, State Board of (§ 7–201 of the Business Occupations and Professions Article);

(25) Health Care Commission, Maryland (§ 19–103 of the Health – General Article);

(26) Health Services Cost Review Commission, State (§ 19–202 of the Health – General Article);

(27) Heating, Ventilation, Air–Conditioning, and Refrigeration Contractors, State Board of (§ 9A–201 of the Business Regulation Article);

(28) Home Improvement Commission, Maryland (§ 8–201 of the Business Regulation Article);

(29) Horse Industry Board, Maryland (§ 2–701 of the Agriculture Article);

(30) Individual Tax Preparers, State Board of (§ 21–201 of the Business Occupations and Professions Article);

(31) Interior Designers, State Board of Certified (§ 8–201 of the Business Occupations and Professions Article);

(32) Labor and Industry, Division of (Title 2 of the Labor and Employment Article) and related programs;

(33) Land Surveyors, State Board for Professional (§ 15–201 of the Business Occupations and Professions Article);

(34) Landscape Architects, State Board of Examiners of (§ 9–201 of the Business Occupations and Professions Article);

(35) Law Examiners, State Board of (§ 10–201 of the Business Occupations and Professions Article);

(36) Marine Contractors Licensing Board (§ 17–201 of the Environment Article);

(37) Maryland–Bred Race Fund Advisory Committee (§ 11–531 of the Business Regulation Article);

(38) Massage Therapy Examiners, State Board of (§ 6–201 of the Health Occupations Article);

(39) Morticians and Funeral Directors, State Board of (§ 7–201 of the Health Occupations Article);

(40) Nursing, State Board of (§ 8–201 of the Health Occupations Article), including the allied health advisory committees under the jurisdiction of the Board;

(41) Nursing Home Administrators, State Board of Examiners of (§ 9–201 of the Health Occupations Article);

(42) Occupational Safety and Health Advisory Board (§ 5–302 of the Labor and Employment Article);

(43) Occupational Therapy Practice, State Board of (§ 10–201 of the Health Occupations Article);

(44) On–site Wastewater Professionals, State Board of (§ 9–11A–05 of the Environment Article);

(45) Optometry, State Board of Examiners in (§ 11–201 of the Health Occupations Article);

(46) Pharmacy, State Board of (§ 12–201 of the Health Occupations Article);

(47) Physical Therapy Examiners, State Board of (§ 13–201 of the Health Occupations Article);

(48) Physicians, State Board of (§ 14–201 of the Health Occupations Article), including the allied health advisory committees under the jurisdiction of the Board;

(49) Pilots, State Board of (§ 11–201 of the Business Occupations and Professions Article);

(50) Plumbing, State Board of (§ 12–201 of the Business Occupations and Professions Article);

(51) Podiatric Medical Examiners, State Board of (§ 16–201 of the Health Occupations Article);

(52) Prescription Drug Monitoring Program in the Maryland Department of Health (§ 21–2A–02 of the Health – General Article);

(53) Psychologists, State Board of Examiners of (§ 18–201 of the Health Occupations Article);

(54) Public Accountancy, State Board of (§ 2–201 of the Business Occupations and Professions Article);

(55) Racing Commission, State (§ 11–201 of the Business Regulation Article);

(56) Real Estate Appraisers, Appraisal Management Companies, and Home Inspectors, State Commission of (§ 16–201 of the Business Occupations and Professions Article);

(57) Real Estate Commission, State (§ 17–201 of the Business Occupations and Professions Article);

(58) Residential Child Care Program Professionals, State Board for Certification of (§ 20–202 of the Health Occupations Article);

(59) security systems technicians, licensing and regulation of (§ 18–201 of the Business Occupations and Professions Article);

(60) Sign Language Interpreters, State Board of (§ 9–2410 of this article);

(61) Social Work Examiners, State Board of (§ 19–201 of the Health Occupations Article);

(62) Standardbred Race Fund Advisory Committee, Maryland (§ 11–625 of the Business Regulation Article);

(63) Veterinary Medical Examiners, State Board of (§ 2–302 of the Agriculture Article);

(64) Waterworks and Waste Systems Operators, State Board of (§ 12–201 of the Environment Article); and

(65) Well Drillers, State Board of (§ 13–201 of the Environment Article).

§ 8-404

(a) When directed by the Legislative Policy Committee, the Joint Audit and Evaluation Committee, the Executive Director, the Director of the Office of Policy Analysis, or the Director of the Office of Program Evaluation and Government Accountability, the Office shall conduct an evaluation of a governmental activity or unit and the statutes related to the governmental activity or unit.

(b) The Office, in consultation with the committees of jurisdiction, shall develop a work plan for an evaluation conducted under subsection (a) of this section.

(1) shall be consistent with the work plan developed under subsection (b) of this section; and

(2) may address the governmental activity’s or unit’s:

(i) efficiency;

(ii) effectiveness;

(iii) role in protecting consumers;

(iv) sufficiency of resources; and

(v) accomplishment of legislative objectives.

(d) On completion, the Department shall submit each evaluation report, including draft legislation to implement any recommended statutory changes, to the committees of jurisdiction.

§ 8-405

On or before the 10th day of the regular session of the General Assembly in the year after the evaluation of a governmental activity or unit has been completed, the committees of jurisdiction for the governmental activity or unit shall hold a public hearing to receive testimony on the evaluation report from the Department, the unit under evaluation or responsible for the governmental activity under evaluation, and the public.

§ 8-406

(a) Subject to § 2–1257 of this article, on or before the 20th day of the regular session of the General Assembly in the year after an evaluation of a governmental activity or unit has been completed, the committees of jurisdiction for the governmental activity or unit shall submit a report to the General Assembly.

(b) (1) The report shall recommend whether a governmental activity or unit that has undergone an evaluation should be reestablished, with or without changes, or allowed to terminate.

(2) The report shall be accompanied by each bill that is needed to accomplish the recommendations in the report.

§ 8-407

(a) During an evaluation conducted under § 8–404 of this subtitle, the unit under evaluation or responsible for the governmental activity under evaluation shall:

(1) promptly provide any information that the Department or a committee of the General Assembly requests; and

(2) otherwise cooperate with the Department to carry out the requirements of this subtitle.

(b) Information requested under subsection (a)(1) of this section may be provided in a format that protects the confidentiality of individuals as necessary.

(c) The Department shall follow procedures to maintain the confidentiality of any information, documents, or proceedings obtained or observed in the course of carrying out the requirements of this subtitle.

§ 8-408

(a) Each unit subject to termination or responsible for the governmental activity subject to termination shall ensure that legislation is requested to extend the termination date of the unit or governmental activity.

(b) Legislation requested in accordance with subsection (a) of this section may not propose a reestablishment period that exceeds 10 years.

§ 8-409

The term of office of a member of a unit under evaluation or responsible for a governmental activity under evaluation is not affected by reason of reestablishment of the governmental activity or unit unless the law that reestablishes the governmental activity or unit provides otherwise.

§ 8-410

(a) The termination of a governmental activity or unit or repeal of its statute in accordance with this subtitle is not a reason for dismissal of any claim or right of:

(1) the unit that is terminated or is responsible for the governmental activity that is terminated; or

(2) any person against that unit.

(b) The State shall assume these claims and rights.

§ 8-411

This subtitle may be cited as the Maryland Program Evaluation Act.

Subtitle 5

§ 8-501

(a) A member of a State board or commission appointed by the Governor who fails to attend at least 50% of the meetings of the board or commission during any consecutive 12-month period shall be considered to have resigned.

(b) Not later than January 15 of the year following the end of the 12-month period the chairman of the board or commission shall forward to the Governor:

(1) the name of the individual considered to have resigned; and

(2) a statement describing the individual’s history of attendance during the period.

(c) Except as provided in subsection (d) of this section, after receiving the chairman’s statement the Governor shall appoint a successor for the remainder of the term of the individual.

(d) If the individual has been unable to attend meetings for reasons satisfactory to the Governor, the Governor may waive the resignation if the reasons are made public.

§ 8-502

(a) (1) A member of a State board or commission shall be suspended without pay from participation in the activities of the board or commission if the member is convicted of or enters a plea of nolo contendere to any crime that:

(i) is a felony; or

(ii) is a misdemeanor related to the member’s public duties and responsibilities and involves moral turpitude for which the penalty may be incarceration in any penal institution.

(2) The suspension shall continue during any period of appeal of the conviction.

(3) If the conviction becomes final, the member shall be removed from the office and the office shall be deemed vacant.

(b) If the conviction of the member is reversed or otherwise vacated:

(1) the member shall be reinstated to the office for the remainder, if any, of the term of office during which the member was so suspended or removed; and

(2) all pay and benefits shall be restored from the date of the suspension or removal.

§ 8-503

The official letterhead stationery of each department, agency, or instrumentality of the State shall include the telephone number of the individual public office that uses the stationery.

§ 8-504

(a) (1) In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.

(2) “Department” means a principal department of the Executive Branch of State government.

(3) “Independent unit” means a unit in the Executive Branch of State government that is not in a department.

(4) “Mask” means to redact from public view those portions of a public record that contain personal information, without permanently altering the original public record.

(5) “Official custodian” means an officer or employee of the State who, whether or not the officer or employee has physical custody and control of a public record, is responsible for keeping the public record.

(6) “Person in interest” means:

(i) an individual that is the subject of personal information contained in a public record or a designee of the individual; or

(ii) if the individual has a legal disability, the parent or legal representative of the individual.

(7) “Personal information” means an individual’s:

(i) Social Security number; or

(ii) driver’s license number.

(8) (i) “Public record” means the original or any copy of any documentary material that:

1. is made by a unit or instrumentality of the State government or received by the unit in connection with the transaction of public business; and

2. is in any form, including:

A. a card;

B. a computerized record;

C. correspondence;

D. a drawing;

E. film or microfilm;

F. a form;

G. a map;

H. a photograph or photostat;

I. a recording; or

J. a tape.

(ii) “Public record” includes a document that lists the salary of an employee of a unit or instrumentality of the State government.

(iii) “Public record” does not include a digital photographic image or signature of an individual, or the actual stored data thereof, recorded by the Motor Vehicle Administration.

(9) “Publicly post or display” means to intentionally make available to the public.

(b) Except as otherwise provided by law, on or after June 1, 2010, a department or an independent unit, to the extent practicable, may not publicly post or display on an Internet website maintained or paid for by the department or independent unit an individual’s personal information.

(c) (1) A person in interest may request an official custodian to mask personal information in the Internet version of a public record.

(2) A request made in accordance with this subsection shall:

(i) be in writing; and

(ii) provide an adequate description of the public record including a name and address or type and location of the public record.

(3) Within 30 days after receiving a request under this section, an official custodian shall:

(i) mask the personal information in the Internet version of the record; and

(ii) give the person in interest written notice of the action taken.

(4) This subsection does not apply to a public record after 72 years from the date it was made or received by a unit or instrumentality of the State government.

§ 8-505

No board or commission in control of a unit in the Executive Branch of the State government may finally adopt a resolution or regulation at a meeting not open to the public.

§ 8-506

(a) (1) In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.

(2) “Department” means a principal department established under § 8–201 of this title.

(3) “Independent unit” means a unit in the Executive Branch of State government that is not a department.

(b) On or before October 1, 2024, each department and independent unit shall:

(1) create a catalog of each type of permit, license, or certificate that it issues; and

(2) submit the catalog required under item (1) of this subsection to the Governor.

(1) a description of each permit, license, or certificate;

(2) the term for which each issued permit, license, or certificate is valid;

(3) the statutory and regulatory authority that:

(i) authorizes or requires the department or independent unit to issue the permit, license, or certificate; and

(ii) establishes a timeline within which a department or independent unit must process and issue the permit, license, or certificate, if any;

(4) the method and process used by the department or independent unit to accept applications for each permit, license, or certificate, including a list of:

(i) prior significant updates to the method and process; and

(ii) the current information technology system used, and any remaining associated tasks still performed manually with the system;

(5) an estimate of the length of time to:

(i) determine if an application is complete; and

(ii) make a final determination to issue, waive, or deny the permit, license, or certificate;

(6) the application fee charged for each permit, license, or certificate and how the revenue collected from application fees is allocated;

(7) any statutory or regulatory authority that may impact an applicant’s ability to receive a permit, license, or certificate based on the criminal history of the applicant;

(8) an analysis and any recommendations by the department or independent unit on the appropriate length of time to promptly process completed applications for each permit, license, or certificate and factors impeding the timely processing of each permit, license, or certificate; and

(9) statutory or regulatory changes and resources that could expedite the processing timeline.

(d) On or before December 1, 2024, each department and independent unit shall post on its website an interim description, to the extent practicable, of the application process for each permit, license, or certificate it issues, including:

(1) any updates to the application process in the preceding 12–month period; and

(2) the time to process each application type.

(e) On or before October 1, 2025, and each year thereafter, each department and independent unit shall post on its website a completed update of the information required under subsection (d) of this section applicable to the immediately preceding 12–month period.

Title 9

Subtitle 1

§ 9-101

(a) In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.

(b) “Agency” means the State Lottery and Gaming Control Agency.

(d) “Director” means the Director of the Agency.

(e) “Governmental unit” means:

(1) an instrumentality of the State;

(2) a county or municipal corporation of the State; or

(3) an instrumentality of a county or municipal corporation of the State.

(f) “Jackpot game” means a lottery game for which the top prize amount varies:

(1) based on sales; and

(2) if the prize was won in the preceding drawing.

(g) “License” means a license issued by the Director to act as a licensed agent.

(h) “Licensed agent” means a person or governmental unit licensed by the Director to act as a State lottery sales agent.

(i) “Multijurisdictional game” means a lottery game offered by the Agency and:

(1) any other political entity outside the State or outside the United States; or

(2) any private licensee of a state or foreign nation.

(j) (1) “State lottery” means the lottery established and operated under this subtitle.

(2) “State lottery” includes a raffle conducted by the Agency.

(k) “Subscription” means a method of playing a multijurisdictional or jackpot lottery game by which an individual submits to the Agency:

(1) an application to play a game using the same game data for a specified number of consecutive drawings; and

(2) payment for the drawings.

§ 9-102

Another law that prohibits the sale of lottery tickets or shares or other acts relating to a lottery does not apply to the State lottery.

§ 9-103

There is a State Lottery and Gaming Control Agency.

§ 9-104

There is a State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission in the Agency.

§ 9-105

(a) (1) The Commission consists of seven members appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Senate.

(2) The presiding officer of either house of the General Assembly may recommend to the Governor a list of individuals for appointment to the Commission.

(b) (1) At the time of appointment, each member of the Commission shall be:

(i) at least 25 years old;

(ii) a resident of the State who has resided in the State for at least 5 years;

(iii) a qualified voter of the State;

(iv) an individual who has not been convicted of or granted probation before judgment for a serious crime or a crime that involves moral turpitude or gambling; and

(v) knowledgeable and experienced in fiscal matters and shall have substantial experience:

1. as an executive with fiduciary responsibilities in charge of a large organization or foundation;

2. in an academic field relating to finance or economics; or

3. as an accountant, economist, or financial analyst, or as a professional in a similar profession relating to fiscal matters or economics.

(2) A member of the Commission may not:

(i) have a direct or indirect financial interest, ownership, or management, including holding any stocks, bonds, or other similar financial interests in any gaming activities, including horse racing, video lottery terminals, table games, or lottery;

(ii) have an official relationship to a person who holds a license under Subtitle 1A of this title;

(iii) be an elected official of State or local government;

(iv) receive or share in, directly or indirectly, the receipts or proceeds of any gaming activities, including horse racing, video lottery terminals, table games, or lottery; or

(v) have a beneficial interest in any contract for the manufacture or sale of gaming devices, the conduct of any gaming activity, or the provision of any independent consulting services in connection with any gaming establishment or gaming activity.

(3) No more than five members may be of the same political party.

(4) The members of the Commission shall reflect the geographic, racial, and gender makeup of the State.

(5) A member of the Commission shall file a financial disclosure statement with the State Ethics Commission in accordance with Title 5, Subtitle 6 of the General Provisions Article.

(2) The terms of members are staggered as required by the terms provided for members of the Commission on October 1, 2012.

(3) At the end of a term, a member continues to serve until a successor is appointed and qualifies.

(4) A member who is appointed after a term has begun serves only for the rest of the term and until a successor is appointed and qualifies.

(5) A member may not serve for more than two full terms.

(d) (1) Subject to the hearing requirements of this subsection, the Governor may remove a member for cause.

(2) Before the Governor removes a member, the Governor shall give the member notice and an opportunity for a public hearing.

(e) The Governor shall appoint one member of the Commission to serve as a liaison to the State Racing Commission established under Title 11 of the Business Regulation Article.

(f) The Commission shall include at least one member who resides in a local jurisdiction in which a video lottery facility is located.

§ 9-106

From among its members, the Commission annually shall elect a chairman.

§ 9-107

(a) With the advice and consent of the Senate, the Governor shall appoint the Director of the Agency, who is the executive officer of the Agency and secretary of the Commission.

(b) The Director serves at the pleasure of the Governor.

(d) The Director shall devote full time to the duties of office and may not engage in another profession or occupation.

(e) In addition to any duties set forth elsewhere in this subtitle, the Director shall have immediate supervision and direction over the Agency.

(f) The Director is entitled to the salary provided in the State budget.

§ 9-108

(a) (1) A majority of the full authorized membership of the Commission is a quorum.

(2) The Commission may not act unless at least 4 members concur.

(b) The Commission shall determine the times and places of its meetings.

(c) (1) The secretary of the Commission promptly shall send the Governor a certified copy of the minutes of each meeting of the Commission.

(2) The minutes shall include a copy of each regulation of the Agency that is adopted.

(d) (1) Each member of the Commission is entitled to:

(i) the salary provided in the budget of the Commission; and

(ii) reimbursement for reasonable expenses:

1. incurred in the performance of the Commission member’s duties; and

2. as provided in the budget of the Commission.

(2) Each member of the Commission shall be paid biweekly.

(3) Each member is entitled to reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations, as provided in the budget of the Commission.

(e) (1) With the advice of the Commission, the Director may employ deputy directors and other staff in accordance with the State budget.

(2) Except as provided in paragraph (3) of this subsection or otherwise by law, the staff of the Commission is in the State Personnel Management System.

(3) (i) Except as provided in subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph, a deputy director is in the executive service of the State Personnel Management System.

(ii) A deputy director may be removed only for cause after being given notice and an opportunity for a hearing.

(4) (i) With the approval of the Commission and in accordance with the State budget, the Director may set the compensation of an Agency employee in a position that:

1. is unique to the Agency;

2. requires specific skills or experience to perform the duties of the position; and

3. does not require the employee to perform functions that are comparable to functions performed in other units of the Executive Branch of State government.

(ii) The Secretary of Budget and Management, in consultation with the Director, shall determine the positions for which the Director may set compensation under subparagraph (i) of this paragraph.

(5) (i) The Governor shall include in the State budget sufficient money for the Commission to hire, develop, and organize a staff to perform the functions of the Commission.

(ii) As deemed necessary by the Commission, the Commission shall hire experts including economists, gaming specialists, and lawyers.

(iii) 1. The Commission shall contract with an outside consultant to provide continual analysis of the gaming industry both within and outside the State and support the licensing activities of the Commission and the Video Lottery Facility Location Commission.

2. The cost of the consultant required under this subparagraph may be divided proportionally among the video lottery operation licensees as determined by the Commission.

§ 9-109

(a) In addition to the specific powers granted and duties imposed by this subtitle, the Commission has the powers and duties set forth in this section.

(b) (1) The Commission shall conduct studies of the State lottery and gaming program to:

(i) identify any defect in this subtitle, Subtitle 1A of this title, or the regulations of the Agency that may allow abuses in the operation and administration of the State lottery and gaming program or any evasion of this subtitle, Subtitle 1A of this title, or the regulations;

(ii) guard against the use of this subtitle, Subtitle 1A of this title, and the regulations of the Agency as a means of conducting organized crime;

(iii) ensure that the regulations of the Agency are proper and that this subtitle, Subtitle 1A of this title, and the regulations are administered to serve the purpose of this subtitle; and

(iv) analyze the gaming industry within and outside the State to determine whether Maryland’s gaming program is competitive and maximizing revenues for the State.

(2) The Commission shall conduct studies of:

(i) the operation and administration of similar laws in other states or countries;

(ii) federal laws that may affect the operation of the State lottery or gaming activities;

(iii) literature on lotteries and gaming activities, including problem gambling programs; and

(iv) the reaction of citizens of the State to existing and potential features of the State lottery and gaming program.

(c) (1) The Commission shall submit to the Governor and, subject to § 2–1257 of this article, to the General Assembly the reports required under this subsection.

(2) The Commission shall submit monthly a report that states the total State lottery and gaming revenues and the total prize disbursements and other expenses for the preceding month.

(3) The Commission shall submit annually a report that states the total State lottery and gaming revenues and the total prize disbursements and other expenses for the preceding year.

(4) The Commission shall submit a report whenever a matter requires an immediate change in a State law to:

(i) prevent an abuse or evasion of this subtitle, Subtitle 1A of this title, or a regulation of the Agency; or

(ii) rectify an undesirable condition in the operation or administration of the State lottery and gaming program.

§ 9-110

(a) With the approval of the Commission, the Director may adopt regulations of the Agency.

(b) The regulations of the Agency shall provide for:

(1) all matters that are necessary or desirable for the efficient and economical operation and administration of the State lottery; and

(2) the convenience of buyers of State lottery tickets and shares and of the holders of a winning ticket or share.

§ 9-111

(a) The Director shall:

(1) supervise and administer the State lottery in accordance with the regulations of the Agency and this subtitle;

(2) confer, at least once a month, with the Commission on the operation and administration of the State lottery;

(3) make available to the Commission any record or other information of the Agency that the Commission requests;

(4) advise the Commission about any change needed to improve the operation or administration of the State lottery;

(5) with the approval of the Commission and subject to Division II of the State Finance and Procurement Article, contract for:

(i) the operation of all or any part of the State lottery; and

(ii) the use of space, for advertising or promotional purposes, on tickets or publications distributed by the Agency, if, in the Director’s discretion, the action is fiscally prudent and in the best interest of the State lottery;

(6) submit monthly to the Comptroller and to the Commission a certified statement of the total State lottery revenues and the total prize disbursements and other expenses for the preceding month; and

(7) with the approval of the Commission, contract for the promotion of the State lottery and enter into private sector cooperative marketing project agreements as provided for in § 11–203(a)(1)(xiii) of the State Finance and Procurement Article.

(b) With the approval of the Commission and the Legislative Policy Committee, the Director may enter into agreements to operate multijurisdictional lotteries or raffles with:

(1) any other political entity outside the State or outside the United States that operates a lottery or raffle; or

(2) a private licensee of a state or a foreign nation.

(d) In accordance with the regulations of the Agency and this subtitle, the Director may:

(1) arrange for a person to perform any activity, function, or service in connection with the operation of the State lottery which shall constitute a lawful activity, function, or service of the person; and

(2) authorize the Agency to sell lottery tickets for a temporary period at any promotional or special event being held in the State if:

(i) in the Director’s determination, no licensed agent is available to conduct the sale; and

(ii) the person holding the promotional or special event has authorized the Agency to sell lottery tickets at the event.

(e) (1) Except as provided in paragraphs (2) and (3) of this subsection, the Agency may not allow the establishment of any system or program that allows a person to purchase a State lottery ticket through an electronic device that connects to the Internet, such as a personal computer or mobile device.

(2) The Agency may allow the establishment of a system or program that allows an individual to purchase a subscription through an electronic device that connects to the Internet, such as a personal computer or mobile device.

(3) (i) The Agency may allow a licensed agent to sell a voucher that an individual may use to fund the purchase of a subscription.

(ii) The Agency shall pay a licensed agent that sells a voucher described under subparagraph (i) of this paragraph the commission rate stated in § 9–117 of this subtitle.

(iii) The Agency shall pay a licensed agent the commission rate stated in § 9–117 of this subtitle for the renewal of a subscription that was originally funded by a voucher sold by the licensed agent and is renewed before the subscription’s expiration for a period of 24 months from the date of the first renewal.

(f) It is the intent of the General Assembly that the Agency offer the Racetrax lottery game at a frequency that maximizes revenue from the game.

§ 9-112

(a) (1) In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.

(2) “Active members” means individuals who are recognized by a fraternal organization as dues–paying members or lifetime members.

(3) (i) “Fraternal organization” means a nonprofit organization that:

1. A. is tax exempt and organized as a fraternal or sororal organization under § 501(c)(7) or § 501(c)(8) of the Internal Revenue Code;

B. owns or leases a property; and

C. has a bona fide membership of at least 300 active members or has been located in a county in which subsection (d) of this section applies for at least 5 years before the organization applies for a license under subsection (d) of this section; or

2. is independent and the membership of which comprises solely graduate members of a nationwide fraternity or sorority that is tax exempt under § 501(c)(7) or § 501(c)(8) of the Internal Revenue Code.

(ii) “Fraternal organization” does not include:

1. any college or high school fraternity or sorority; or

2. any other fraternity or sorority the membership of which is restricted in whole or in part to students or graduates of an educational institution or a professional school.

(4) “Veterans’ organization” means an organization that is tax exempt and organized as a veterans’ organization under § 501(c)(19) or § 501(c)(4) of the Internal Revenue Code.

(b) Except as provided in subsection (d) of this section, in accordance with the regulations of the Agency and this subtitle, the Director shall issue licenses to the persons and governmental units that will best serve the public convenience and promote the sale of State lottery tickets or shares.

(1) the financial responsibility and security of the applicant and the business or activity of the applicant;

(2) the accessibility of the place of business or activity to the public;

(3) the sufficiency of existing licenses to serve the public convenience; and

(4) the volume of expected sales.

(d) (1) This subsection does not apply in:

(i) Caroline County;

(ii) Cecil County;

(iii) Dorchester County;

(iv) Kent County;

(v) Queen Anne’s County;

(vi) Somerset County;

(vii) Talbot County;

(viii) Wicomico County; and

(ix) Worcester County.

(2) (i) Subject to subparagraph (ii) of this paragraph, the Director may issue a license under this subtitle for:

1. not more than five instant ticket lottery machines to an applicant that is a veterans’ organization; and

2. not more than three instant ticket lottery machines to an applicant that is a fraternal organization.

(ii) A veterans’ organization or fraternal organization that is issued a license under this subsection shall locate and operate its instant ticket lottery machines at its principal meeting hall in the county in which the veterans’ organization or fraternal organization is located.

(iii) As a retailer under the instant ticket lottery machine program, a veterans’ organization or fraternal organization shall be compensated based on a percentage of proceeds.

(3) (i) After deduction of any validation prize payout as provided under § 9–117 of this subtitle, a veterans’ organization issued a license under this subsection shall retain 50% of the net proceeds and credit the remaining net proceeds from the sale of tickets from instant ticket lottery machines to the State Lottery Fund established under § 9–118 of this subtitle.

(ii) On a properly approved transmittal, the Agency shall pay the following amounts from the net proceeds of sales of tickets from instant ticket lottery machines operated by a veterans’ organization:

1. 5% to the Maryland Veterans Trust Fund established under § 9–913 of this title;

2. to the Agency, an amount necessary to pay for the purchase or lease of the instant ticket lottery machines and Agency administration fees for the program; and

3. any remaining amount to the Education Trust Fund established under § 9–1A–30 of this title.

(iii) After deduction of a validation prize payout, a fraternal organization issued a license under this subsection shall:

1. retain 25% of the net proceeds for undergraduate, graduate, or trade school scholarships or capital improvements, capital outlays, acquisitions, or existing community outreach programs and resources; and

2. remit the remainder to the Agency to be distributed as provided in subparagraph (iv) of this paragraph.

(iv) On a properly approved transmittal, the Agency shall pay the following amounts from the net proceeds of sales of tickets from instant ticket lottery machines operated by a fraternal organization:

1. 20% to the Homelessness Solutions Program in the Department of Housing and Community Development, to be used, in consultation with the Department of Veterans and Military Families, to assist veterans and families of veterans, with priority given to:

A. women veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness;

B. single–parent veteran families; and

C. veterans who are victims of domestic violence;

2. 5% to the Maryland Veterans Trust Fund established under § 9–913 of this title;

3. to the Agency, an amount necessary to pay for the purchase or lease of the instant ticket lottery machines and Agency administration fees for the program; and

4. any remaining amount to the Education Trust Fund established under § 9–1A–30 of this title.

(4) An organization may not use net proceeds from the sale of tickets from instant ticket lottery machines that would otherwise be distributed as required under paragraph (3) of this subsection for the costs of purchasing or leasing instant ticket lottery machines.

(5) (i) The Director may adopt regulations to implement the provisions of this subsection that include restricting the location of instant ticket lottery machines in areas of a veterans’ organization’s or a fraternal organization’s public meeting hall that is accessible to the public.

(ii) A fraternal organization may not locate or operate its instant ticket lottery machines in a meeting hall that is:

1. located on or affiliated with the campus of an institution of higher education; or

2. located in a building where students of an institution of higher education reside.

(6) The Agency shall ensure that the element of chance in the conduct of the gaming through the instant ticket lottery machines established under this subsection is contained wholly within the predetermined instant lottery ticket, and that player enhancements in an instant ticket lottery machine may not affect the element of chance.

(e) The Director may not issue a license to:

(1) a person or governmental unit to engage in business primarily as a licensed agent; or

(2) an individual who is under the age of 21 years.

(f) The Commission may hear and decide an appeal of a denial of a license.

§ 9-112.1

(a) In this section, “Central Repository” means the Criminal Justice Information System Central Repository of the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services.

(b) The Agency shall apply to the Central Repository for a State and national criminal history records check for each new applicant for a license under § 9–113 of this subtitle.

(c) The Director may require any applicant seeking a change of ownership or renewal of a license to submit fingerprints to the Central Repository for a State and national criminal history records check.

(d) The Central Repository shall provide to the Agency:

(1) the State and national criminal history records of each individual requiring a criminal history records check under subsection (b) of this section and issue a printed statement of the Federal Bureau of Investigation report;

(2) an update of the initial criminal history records check for an individual requiring a criminal history records check and issue a revised printed statement of the Federal Bureau of Investigation report listing any criminal charge occurring after the date of the initial criminal history records check; and

(3) an acknowledged receipt of the application for a criminal history records check by an individual requiring a criminal history records check.

(e) As part of the application for a criminal history records check, the Agency shall submit to the Central Repository:

(1) a complete set of the applicant’s legible fingerprints taken on forms approved by the Director of the Central Repository and the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation;

(2) the fee authorized in § 10–221(b)(7) of the Criminal Procedure Article for access to Maryland criminal history records; and

(3) the mandatory processing fee required by the Federal Bureau of Investigation for a national criminal history records check.

(f) (1) In accordance with §§ 10–201 through 10–234 of the Criminal Procedure Article, the Central Repository shall forward to the applicant and the Agency a printed statement of the applicant’s criminal history record information.

(2) Nothing in paragraph (1) of this subsection shall preclude the Director from notifying a licensed agent or an applicant of the approval or disqualification based on information obtained by the Agency under this section.

(g) Information obtained from the Central Repository under this section:

(1) shall be confidential;

(2) may not be redisseminated; and

(3) may be used only in connection with the issuance of a license required under this subtitle.

(h) The subject of a criminal history records check under this section may contest the contents of the printed statement issued by the Central Repository as provided in § 10–223 of the Criminal Procedure Article.

§ 9-113

A license authorizes the licensee to act as a State lottery sales agent while the license is effective.

§ 9-114

(a) The Director may require any lottery agent granted a license to post either an appropriate surety bond, irrevocable letter of credit, or cash security deposit in the amount that the regulations of the Agency set.

(b) (1) In lieu of a surety bond, irrevocable letter of credit, or cash security deposit, the Agency, at the discretion of the Director, may provide a blanket bond covering all or selected agents in accordance with the availability of bonds and the financial status of an individual or a corporation.

(2) A bond provided by the Agency shall be:

(i) provided at the agent’s expense; and

(ii) based upon a financial evaluation of the agent conducted by the Director.

§ 9-115

Each licensed agent shall display prominently the license or a copy of it, as the regulations of the Agency require.

§ 9-116

The Commission may suspend or revoke a license, on the recommendation of the Director.

§ 9-117

(a) (1) A licensed agent shall receive regular commissions of 5.75% of the licensed agent’s gross receipts from ticket sales.

(2) A licensed agent may further receive a cashing fee not to exceed 2% of valid prizes paid for services rendered in cashing winning tickets.

(b) (1) The Commission may authorize the payment of special bonuses to licensed agents and their employees.

(2) The total of the bonuses may not exceed one–half of 1% of the gross receipts from ticket sales for the year for which the bonuses are awarded.

(3) Lottery sales agents may not offer patrons inducements of alcoholic beverages to purchase or redeem lottery tickets.

(c) Unless otherwise expressly provided by a lease for premises on which lottery tickets are sold, whenever lottery tickets are sold by a licensed agent on premises subject to rent that is wholly or partially based on a percentage of gross sales or receipts, the tenant responsible for payment of the rent may calculate that portion of the rent arising from the sale of lottery tickets solely on the basis of:

(1) the commission received by the licensed agent on the sale of those tickets; and

(2) in the case of instant lottery tickets, the difference between the price paid by the licensed agent in purchasing the tickets from the Agency and the price for which they were sold by the agent.

§ 9-118

(a) There is a State Lottery Fund.

(b) Except as otherwise specifically provided by law:

(1) the Agency shall account to the Comptroller for all of the revenue under this subtitle; and

(2) the Comptroller shall credit the revenues to the State Lottery Fund.

(1) payout of prizes;

(2) payout of commissions; and

(3) reimbursement for money paid out for prizes or commissions.

§ 9-119

(a) Except for the commission of a licensed agent, all of the receipts from the sale of State lottery tickets or shares are due to the Agency:

(1) on the due date that the Agency sets; or

(2) at the times and within the intervals prescribed by Agency regulations.

(b) (1) (i) The Director shall require all licensed agents to deposit, with a bank that the licensed agent selects and to the credit of the State Lottery Fund, all of the receipts from the sale of State lottery tickets or shares less any commission and validation prize payout.

(ii) 1. A licensed agent may commingle proceeds from the sale of State lottery tickets or shares with business receipts of the licensed agent.

2. Proceeds, including cash proceeds of the sale of any lottery products less any commission and validation prize payout, shall be remitted and paid directly or through the Agency’s authorized collection representative.

(iii) Licensed agents and each person who is a guarantor or indemnitor of a licensed agent’s financial obligations to the Agency shall be liable for all proceeds from the sale of lottery tickets or shares.

(iv) The Director may adjust the time, interval, or method of collection for collections of proceeds of any licensed agent.

(v) 1. Nothing in this subsection may be construed to impose obligations or liability on any bank in which proceeds from the sale of State lottery tickets or shares are deposited.

2. This subparagraph does not affect the rights and obligations of any financial institution that has issued an irrevocable letter of credit or holds any cash security deposit as provided in § 9-114 of this subtitle.

(2) The Director may require any or all licensed agents to submit to the Director or a designee of the Director a report that:

(i) is in the form that the Director requires; and

(ii) gives the information that the Director requires as to the transactions in and receipts from the sale of State lottery tickets or shares.

(i) a check that is given to the Agency by a licensed agent; or

(ii) an electronic transfer of funds to the State lottery account from the account of a licensed agent for money received from the sale of State lottery tickets or shares.

(2) The service charge under paragraph (1) of this subsection shall be sufficient to cover the Agency’s costs associated with the dishonored return.

(3) The Director shall adopt regulations specifying the costs and the methodology for determining the costs that are associated with a dishonored return.

(4) The service charge imposed under paragraph (1) of this subsection shall be in addition to any other fees or charges authorized to be charged under this article.

(d) A licensed agent shall be charged:

(1) as provided in § 13-604(a) of the Tax - General Article, interest on the money that is not paid to the Agency within 10 days after the due date; and

(2) if the Agency refers the debt to the Central Collection Unit of the Department of Budget and Management, an additional fee sufficient to cover administrative and collection costs, in an amount equal to any fee charged by the Central Collection Unit in accordance with § 3-304(a)(2) of the State Finance and Procurement Article.

(e) (1) The amount, including any interest or penalty charge, due to the Agency from a licensed agent, as of the time that notice of the lien is filed:

(i) is a lien on the property of that licensed agent; and

(ii) subject to paragraph (5) of this subsection, has the same effect as a judgment lien.

(2) The Agency shall:

(i) file a notice of the lien with the clerk of the circuit court for the county where the property is located; and

(ii) mail a copy of the notice to the business address of the licensed agent.

(3) The clerk of court promptly shall enter in the judgment docket of the court:

(i) the name of the licensed agent;

(ii) the amount of the lien; and

(iii) the date of the lien.

(4) Within 30 days after the lien is filed, the licensed agent may petition the court for a hearing as to the amount that is due to the Agency.

(5) Until an officer of a court levies on personal property, the lien is not effective against an innocent buyer for value.

§ 9-120

IN EFFECT

(a) The Comptroller shall distribute, or cause to be distributed, the State Lottery Fund to pay:

(1) on a pro rata basis for the daily and nondaily State lottery games, the expenses of administering and operating the State lottery, as authorized under this subtitle and the State budget; and

(2) then, except as provided in § 10–113.1 of the Family Law Article, § 11–618 of the Criminal Procedure Article, and § 3–307 of the State Finance and Procurement Article, the holder of each winning ticket or share.

(b) (1) By the end of the month following collection, the Comptroller shall deposit, cause to be deposited, or pay:

(i) 1. after June 30, 2023, but not later than June 30, 2026, into the Maryland Stadium Facilities Fund established under § 7–312 of the State Finance and Procurement Article from the money that remains in the State Lottery Fund, after the distribution under subsection (a) of this section, an amount not to exceed $14,200,000 in each fiscal year;

2. after June 30, 2023, but not later than June 30, 2026, from the money that remains in the State Lottery Fund after the distribution under subsection (a) of this section, an amount for each fiscal year not to exceed:

A. $34,900,000 into the Camden Yards Football Sports Facility Supplemental Financing Fund established under § 10–652.1 of the Economic Development Article; and

B. $40,900,000 into the Camden Yards Baseball Sports Facility Supplemental Financing Fund established under § 10–652.2 of the Economic Development Article;

3. after June 30, 2026, but not later than June 30, 2039, into the Maryland Stadium Facilities Fund established under § 7–312 of the State Finance and Procurement Article from the money that remains in the State Lottery Fund, after the distribution under subsection (a) of this section, an amount not to exceed $3,360,000 in each fiscal year;

4. after June 30, 2026, but not later than June 30, 2039, from the money that remains in the State Lottery Fund after the distribution under subsection (a) of this section, an amount for each fiscal year not to exceed:

A. $45,000,000 into the Camden Yards Football Sports Facility Supplemental Financing Fund established under § 10–652.1 of the Economic Development Article; and

B. $41,640,000 into the Camden Yards Baseball Sports Facility Supplemental Financing Fund established under § 10–652.2 of the Economic Development Article; and

5. after June 30, 2039, from the money that remains in the State Lottery Fund after the distribution under subsection (a) of this section, an amount for each fiscal year not to exceed:

A. $45,000,000 into the Camden Yards Football Sports Facility Supplemental Financing Fund established under § 10–652.1 of the Economic Development Article; and

B. $45,000,000 into the Camden Yards Baseball Sports Facility Supplemental Financing Fund established under § 10–652.2 of the Economic Development Article;

(ii) after June 30, 2014, into the Maryland Veterans Trust Fund 10% of the money that remains in the State Lottery Fund from the proceeds of sales of tickets from instant ticket lottery machines by veterans’ organizations under § 9–112(d) of this subtitle, after the distribution under subsection (a) of this section;

(iii) after June 30, 2014, into the Baltimore City Public School Construction Financing Fund established under § 10–656 of the Economic Development Article the money that remains in the State Lottery Fund from the proceeds of all lotteries after the distributions under subsection (a) of this section and items (i) and (ii) of this paragraph, an amount equal to $20,000,000 in each fiscal year that bonds are outstanding and unpaid, to be paid in two installments with at least $10,000,000 paid no later than December 1 of each fiscal year;

(iv) after June 30, 2021, into the Racing and Community Development Financing Fund established under § 10–657.2 of the Economic Development Article from the money that remains in the State Lottery Fund, after the distribution under subsection (a) of this section, an amount equal to $17,000,000 in each fiscal year until the bonds issued for a racing facility have matured;

(v) after June 30, 2020, into the Michael Erin Busch Sports Fund established under § 10–612.2 of the Economic Development Article from the money that remains in the State Lottery Fund from the proceeds of all lotteries after the distributions under subsection (a) of this section and items (i) through (iv) of this paragraph, an amount equal to $1,000,000 in each fiscal year;

(vi) after June 30, 2021, a grant to the Maryland Humanities Council for Maryland History Day and other programming from the money that remains in the State Lottery Fund after the distributions under subsection (a) of this section and items (i) through (v) of this paragraph, an amount equal to $150,000 in each fiscal year;

(vii) after June 30, 2021, to Anne Arundel County or Baltimore City each fiscal year the amount required to be distributed under § 9–1A–31(a)(7)(ii) of this title to be used as required under § 9–1A–31 of this title;

(viii) after June 30, 2022, into the Maggie McIntosh School Arts Fund established under § 5–243 of the Education Article from the money that remains in the State Lottery Fund from the proceeds of all other lotteries after the distributions under subsection (a) of this section and items (i) through (vii) of this paragraph, an amount equal to $250,000 in each fiscal year;

(ix) after June 1, 2022, to the Sports Entertainment Facilities Financing Fund established under § 10–657.5 of the Economic Development Article from the money that remains in the State Lottery Fund from the proceeds of all lotteries after the distributions under subsection (a) of this section and items (i) through (viii) of this paragraph, an amount not to exceed $25,000,000 to be paid in two installments not later than November 1 and June 1 of each fiscal year;

(x) after June 30, 2022, to the Major Sports and Entertainment Event Program Fund established under § 10–611.2 of the Economic Development Article from the money that remains in the State Lottery Fund from the proceeds of all lotteries after the distributions under subsection (a) of this section and items (i) through (ix) of this paragraph:

1. for fiscal year 2023, an amount equal to $10,000,000; and

2. for each fiscal year thereafter, the amount necessary to restore the Major Sports and Entertainment Event Program Fund to a balance of $10,000,000;

(xi) after June 30, 2024, into the Bus Rapid Transit Fund established under § 2–802.1 of the Transportation Article for bus rapid transit system grants in accordance with § 2–802 of the Transportation Article from the money that remains in the State Lottery Fund from the proceeds of all lotteries after the distributions under subsection (a) of this section and items (i) through (x) of this paragraph:

1. for fiscal year 2025, an amount equal to $27,000,000 in each fiscal year; and

2. for each fiscal year thereafter, an amount equal to $17,000,000 in each fiscal year;

(xii) after June 30, 2024, into the Prince George’s County Blue Line Corridor Facility Fund established under § 10–657.6 of the Economic Development Article from the money that remains in the State Lottery Fund from the proceeds of all lotteries after the distributions under subsection (a) of this section and items (i) through (xi) of this paragraph, $27,000,000;

(xiii) after June 30, 2024, a supplemental local impact grant of $3,000,000 each fiscal year to the County Executive and County Council of Prince George’s County from the money that remains in the State Lottery Fund from the proceeds of all lotteries after the distributions under subsection (a) of this section and items (i) through (xii) of this paragraph to be distributed in Prince George’s County in accordance with § 9–1A–31 of this title;

(xiv) subject to paragraph (3) of this subsection after June 30, 2025, supplemental local impact aid of $250,000 each fiscal year from the proceeds of the Racetrax lottery game to Anne Arundel County, Howard County, and the City of Laurel in proportion to each jurisdiction’s share of the money required to be paid under § 11–404(d) of the Business Regulation Article to be used in accordance with paragraph (4) of this subsection; and

(xv) into the General Fund of the State the money that remains in the State Lottery Fund from the proceeds of all lotteries after the distributions under subsection (a) of this section and items (i) through (xiv) of this paragraph.

(2) The money paid into the General Fund under this subsection is available in the fiscal year in which the money accumulates in the State Lottery Fund.

(3) The Comptroller may not pay the supplemental local impact aid required under paragraph (1)(xiv) of this subsection for any fiscal year following the fiscal year that:

(i) Laurel Race Course is no longer used for live racing or training; or

(ii) backstretch workers employed at Laurel Race Course are no longer living on the Laurel Race Course property.

(4) (i) Anne Arundel County, Howard County, and the City of Laurel shall use the supplemental local impact aid required under paragraph (1)(xiv) of this subsection to provide programs and services to the communities surrounding Laurel Race Course including:

1. health and mental health services;

2. individual and family counseling;

3. drug and alcohol addiction awareness, support, and treatment;

4. social services;

5. nutrition and wellness programs; and

6. transportation, if necessary, to off–site medical and wellness services.

(ii) 1. Anne Arundel County may use the supplemental local impact aid under paragraph (1)(xiv) of this subsection only to provide grant funding for the purposes identified under subparagraph (i) of this paragraph to nonprofit organizations:

A. with a history of working with backstretch workers employed at Laurel Race Course; and

B. that employ Spanish–speaking program staff or provide translation services for nonnative English speakers.

2. In consultation with at least two Laurel Race Course backstretch workers designated by the County Executive, Anne Arundel County may use the public grant application process developed and administered by the Laurel Race Course Impact Advisory Committee to provide grant funding to nonprofit organizations under this subparagraph.

3. A nonprofit organization that receives grant funding under this subparagraph may use the funding only to provide programs and services at Laurel Race Course or within 1 mile of Laurel Race Course to backstretch workers employed at Laurel Race Course or residents living in the 20724 postal zip code.

(c) The regulations of the Agency shall apportion the money in the State Lottery Fund in accordance with subsection (b) of this section.

§ 9-120

// EFFECTIVE JUNE 30, 2027 PER CHAPTER 403 OF 2025 //