Technology

SB 247 converts Maryland's Biotechnology Investment Incentive Tax Credit into a direct grant program administered by the Department of Commerce. It replaces tax credits with cash grants for qualifying biotechnology companies engaged in research, development, or commercialization of biological technologies. The bill requires the Department to disburse grants within a specified timeframe and allows recipients to deduct these grants from their Maryland income tax for the same year. This change shifts the incentive from tax savings to immediate funding, directly affecting eligible biotech firms in Maryland.

HB 145 requires Maryland's State Administrator of Elections to act on credible reports of election misinformation (false information about voting) or disinformation (knowingly misleading information) by providing corrective information, requesting removal from online platforms, and seeking records via subpoena. It prohibits knowingly using AI-generated deepfakes (manipulated videos/audio) to mislead voters about voting rights, election results, or registration, with violations punishable as misdemeanors carrying up to $5,000 fines or 5 years in jail. The law exempts satire, news coverage (like interviews or documentaries), and media outlets that clearly label deceptive content. It directly affects voters seeking accurate election information, election officials managing reports, and content creators distributing election-related material. The bill takes effect June 1, 2026.