Maryland 2023 Regular Session

Maryland House Bill HB1073

Introduced
2/10/23  

Caption

Homeowner Assistance Fund – Victims of Domestic Violence – Eligibility

Impact

This bill impacts state laws related to housing support, specifically addressing the needs of domestic violence victims. By requiring evidence that victims are listed on the deed of the property seeking assistance, and potentially allowing them to provide financial information about their cohabitant, the bill reinforces the idea of prioritizing their welfare in housing policies. Furthermore, it aligns with federal provisions under the American Rescue Plan Act, thus ensuring that state laws are consistent with federal guidelines, avoiding any potential funding conflicts.

Summary

House Bill 1073 seeks to improve accessibility to the Maryland Homeowner Assistance Fund for victims of domestic violence. The bill requires the Department of Housing and Community Development to establish specific eligibility criteria for these individuals to obtain financial assistance from the Fund. One significant change is that assistance will be made available under certain circumstances when the victim's current or former spouse or cohabitant refuses to participate in the application process. The goal is to streamline access to financial help for victims, ensuring that they can secure housing stability amidst difficult circumstances.

Contention

Notable points of contention during discussions surrounding HB 1073 include the balance between establishing comprehensive criteria without infringing on the victims' privacy or autonomy. There are concerns about the potential barriers to receiving aid, especially if the evidence required is perceived as excessive or intrusive. Additionally, some lawmakers discussed the implications of the bill on state resources and the capabilities of the Department of Housing and Community Development to manage these new requirements effectively.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MD SB3946

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE VICTIMS

MD S2039

Adds new civil penalties and increases surcharges imposed on domestic violence offenders; establishes "Domestic Violence Victims' Legal Assistance Fund."

MD S118

Adds new civil penalties and increases surcharges imposed on domestic violence offenders; establishes "Domestic Violence Victims' Legal Assistance Fund."

MD A3728

Adds new civil penalties and increases surcharges imposed on domestic violence offenders; establishes "Domestic Violence Victims' Legal Assistance Fund."

MD A565

Adds new civil penalties and increases surcharges imposed on domestic violence offenders; establishes "Domestic Violence Victims' Legal Assistance Fund."

MD H0019

Victims of Domestic Violence and Dating Violence

MD AB446

Discrimination: housing: victims of domestic violence.

MD SB439

Family Law - Victims of Domestic Violence Program - Certification and Grant Fund

MD HB656

Family Law - Victims of Domestic Violence Program - Certification and Grant Fund

MD A3461

Establishes "Support for Victims of Domestic Violence Program"; incentivizes certain businesses to provide support to individuals who are victims of domestic violence.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.