HB 434 prohibits Maryland landlords from using computer programs (algorithmic devices) that rely on nonpublic competitor data - like actual rent prices or occupancy rates - to set rent, lease renewal terms, or occupancy levels for new residential leases. It directly affects residential landlords who might use such tools to adjust pricing or lease conditions. The law defines "nonpublic competitor data" as information not widely available, such as rivals' rent amounts or tenant turnover rates, and excludes tools used for affordable housing programs or anonymized industry reports. Violations would be treated as unfair trade practices under Maryland's consumer protection law, with enforcement starting October 1, 2026, for new leases only.
SB 79 requires Maryland county school boards to create and adopt policies restricting student use of personal electronic devices (like phones, tablets, or laptops) during school hours. It mandates a complete ban for elementary and middle school students, while allowing limited use for high school students under specific exceptions - such as for documented health needs, individualized education plans (IEPs), or educational purposes. Policies must be published online and in student handbooks, reviewed every two years, and include disciplinary measures for violations. The bill takes effect July 1, 2026, directly affecting all public school districts and students in Maryland.
HB 295 prohibits operating, conducting, or promoting "interactive games" (internet/mobile games simulating casino games, lotteries, or sports betting) in Maryland. It requires license applicants and holders to annually report business relationships with entities supporting such games and disclose any revenue from jurisdictions where interactive gaming is illegal. The bill bars the State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission from issuing licenses to entities accepting revenue from high-risk jurisdictions (e.g., terrorism sponsors or Financial Action Task Force "call for action" areas). This directly affects gaming license applicants, current licensees, and businesses operating in or connected to illegal gaming markets. The law aims to prevent Maryland-based operations from engaging with unregulated or prohibited gaming activities.
HB 163 requires Maryland county school boards to create and adopt policies restricting students' use of personal electronic devices (like smartphones or tablets) during school hours, with specific exceptions for students with individualized education plans (IEPs), documented health needs, or educational activities. The policy must be published online, in school handbooks, and reviewed every two years by the county board or state department. School boards must also establish enforcement procedures, including potential in-school suspensions for violations. This bill directly affects all public school students and county school boards across Maryland, aiming to standardize device use rules while accommodating specific student needs.
This bill changes Maryland's rules for using wiretapped or electronically intercepted communications as evidence in criminal trials. It allows such evidence in court if the crime involved a victim, the evidence is material to the case, the interception wasn't conducted by Maryland law enforcement, it's more probative than other available evidence, and admitting it serves justice. Prosecutors must also provide the defense with at least 14 days' notice before using this evidence. The bill takes effect October 1, 2026.
SB 112 prohibits operating, conducting, or promoting "interactive games" (like online casino-style games) in Maryland. It requires gaming license applicants and licensees to annually report business relationships with entities supporting such games and disclose any revenue from jurisdictions where interactive gaming is banned. The State Lottery and Gaming Control Commission can deny licenses, revoke existing licenses, or impose sanctions if applicants or licensees knowingly accept revenue from illegal gaming markets. This bill directly affects gaming businesses seeking or holding licenses in Maryland, aiming to block connections to prohibited gaming activities.
HB 120 imposes a statewide ban on constructing new data centers and prohibits local governments from approving such projects. It directly affects developers seeking to build new facilities and local planning authorities. The ban automatically ends if the legislature passes new laws requiring all new data centers to be co-located with power generation facilities (like natural gas, nuclear, or small modular reactors) that provide sufficient energy. Existing projects with all required permits before the law takes effect are exempt. The bill is designed as a temporary measure until more comprehensive energy co-location rules are enacted.
