Maryland 2024 Regular Session

Maryland House Bill HB809

Introduced
1/31/24  
Refer
1/31/24  
Report Pass
3/4/24  
Engrossed
3/7/24  
Refer
3/8/24  
Report Pass
4/4/24  
Enrolled
4/6/24  
Chaptered
5/9/24  

Caption

Members of Boards, Committees, Commissions, Task Forces, or Workgroups – Removal or Suspension

Impact

The bill is likely to enhance transparency and fairness in the governance of state-appointed bodies. By formalizing the process for removal and suspension, it aims to mitigate arbitrary dismissals and ensures that appointees are held to a standard of conduct and performance. This change may also align with best practices in governance, emphasizing the importance of procedural fairness in public appointments. The bill is positioned to strengthen public trust in oversight bodies within state government.

Summary

House Bill 809 addresses the removal or suspension of members from boards, committees, commissions, task forces, or workgroups created by state law. The bill establishes conditions under which such members may be removed for reasons including misconduct, incompetence, or neglect of duties. It requires that certain procedures must be followed prior to removal or suspension, notably providing the member an opportunity to be heard. This aims to ensure fairness and accountability in the appointment process of state committees and boards.

Sentiment

Overall sentiment surrounding HB 809 appears to be positive, with legislators acknowledging the need for clear guidelines surrounding the governance of appointed bodies. Supporters of the bill argue it brings necessary structure to the removal processes, which can restore public confidence in these entities. However, there may be concerns about whether the removal process might be misused for political reasons. This sentiment indicates a cautious optimism for improving board accountability.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the potential for misuse of the removal process when political motivations intertwine with genuine issues of misconduct or incompetence. Critics may argue that while the procedures offer protection for members, they could still be vulnerable to manipulation by those in power. Additionally, the exclusions listed in the bill regarding standing committees and others could lead to questions about the uniform application of these removal protocols across all types of boards and committees.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MD HB153

Baltimore City Board of School Commissioners - Student Members and Task Force to Study Compensation and Student Members

MD SB31

Baltimore City Board of School Commissioners - Student Members and Task Force to Study Compensation and Student Members

MD HB976

Workgroup on Mold Standards and Remediation

MD HB1035

Energy Efficiency and Conservation Plans and Green and Healthy Task Force

MD HB611

State Board of Nursing – Sunset Extension, Licensure Exceptions, and Board Operations and Membership

MD HB1203

County Boards of Education and Public Schools - Committees and Task Forces - Open Meetings Act

MD HB1265

Baltimore County – Board of Education – Membership

MD SB960

State Board of Nursing – Sunset Extension, Licensure Exceptions, and Board Operations and Membership

MD HB693

State Board of Pharmacy - Board Membership, Delegated Pharmacy Acts, and Sunset Extension

MD SB871

Social Workers - Sunset Extension, Notification of Complete Application, and Workgroup on Social Worker Requirements for Licensure

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.