Study to Evaluate Blockchain-Based Real Property Lease and Title Recordation and Verification

SB 168 establishes a two-year pilot program (2027-2028) in Maryland's State Department of Assessments and Taxation to test blockchain technology for recording real property ownership. The program allows property owners in up to three selected counties to opt into having their titles represented as secure digital tokens on a blockchain registry. This system would enable law enforcement and courts to verify ownership in real time, particularly for disputes involving squatting. The pilot requires creating a secure registry, testing smart contracts for title transfers, and reporting results to the legislature by 2029. It does not mandate statewide adoption but aims to assess blockchain's potential for improving property record security and dispute resolution.