Housing (Community Development)

HB 1550 proposes to repeal Maryland’s eminent domain authority by removing the state’s legal power to seize private property for public use. It would eliminate specific provisions across multiple Maryland Code articles (including Public Utilities, Real Property, and Transportation) that govern condemnation procedures, quick-take mechanisms, and redevelopment projects. This bill directly affects property owners who could no longer face state-led property seizures, as well as state agencies and developers relying on eminent domain for infrastructure or redevelopment. The measure also includes constitutional amendments to formally end this authority, requiring voter approval to take effect.