Maryland 2024 Regular Session

Maryland House Bill HB131

Introduced
1/10/24  
Refer
1/10/24  
Report Pass
3/13/24  
Engrossed
3/14/24  
Refer
3/14/24  
Report Pass
4/8/24  
Enrolled
4/8/24  
Chaptered
4/25/24  

Caption

Housing Development Permit Applications - Local Reporting Requirements

Impact

The implementation of HB 131 is expected to significantly impact state laws surrounding housing and local governance. By mandating the collection and reporting of data related to permit applications, the bill encourages local jurisdictions to standardize their processes and may foster improvements in efficiency. This increased accountability could lead to more informed decision-making at both local and state levels and help identify bottlenecks in the permitting process that might be hindering housing development. Moreover, the public availability of these reports on local websites aims to empower community awareness and engagement regarding local housing issues.

Summary

House Bill 131 establishes mandatory reporting requirements for local jurisdictions regarding housing development permit applications in Maryland. The bill is designed to improve transparency and accountability in the processing of building and development permits, particularly those related to residential housing. Local jurisdictions with populations of at least 150,000 residents are required to submit annual reports detailing the number of applications received, approved, and rejected, as well as other relevant metrics related to the permit application process. This initiative aims to enhance the state's understanding of housing development trends and challenges.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 131 appears to be generally supportive among stakeholders advocating for housing development and transparency. Proponents argue that the bill will facilitate better planning and resource allocation regarding housing initiatives, ultimately aiding in addressing the housing shortage. Critically, however, there are concerns from some communities regarding the added responsibilities and potential bureaucracy that could arise from adhering to these reporting requirements, especially for smaller jurisdictions. The tension between fostering development and maintaining local autonomy is palpable in discussions about the bill.

Contention

A notable point of contention is the specific threshold of population size, which determines the jurisdictions that must comply with these reporting requirements. Critics argue that the focus on larger jurisdictions may neglect the unique challenges faced by smaller communities. Additionally, there are concerns about whether local jurisdictions will have adequate resources to implement the mandated reporting processes effectively. These discussions highlight ongoing debates about the balance of state oversight versus local control in housing development matters.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MD HB852

Land Use - Expedited Development Review Processes for Affordable Housing - Application to Religious Organizations

MD SB903

Land Use – Expedited Development Review Processes for Affordable Housing – Application to Religious Organizations

MD SB513

Environment – Collection and Reporting of Drinking Water and Wastewater Data and Information – Requirements

MD HB79

Housing and Community Development - Whole-Home Repairs Act of 2023

MD SB296

Housing and Community Development - Whole-Home Repairs Act of 2023

MD HB844

Housing and Community Development - Common Ownership Community Website

MD HB607

Sediment Control Plans, Discharge Permits for Stormwater Associated With Construction Activity, and Notice and Comment Requirements

MD SB835

Public Schools – Heating, Ventilation, and Air–Conditioning Systems and Carbon Dioxide Monitors – Monitoring and Reporting Requirements

MD SB471

Sediment Control Plans, Discharge Permits for Stormwater Associated With Construction Activity, and Notice and Comment Requirements

MD SB116

Property Tax - Municipal Corporation Business Personal Property Tax Rate and Local Government Reporting Requirements - Alterations

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.