Corporations and Associations - Resident Agent - Public Information
Impact
If enacted, HB1399 would amend the Corporations and Associations Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland. The requirement for publicly available information on resident agents could potentially affect several existing practices within businesses, making it easier for individuals or organizations to contact resident agents for any legal or administrative matters. This bill could enhance accountability and improve communication between businesses and other entities or individuals that require their services.
Summary
House Bill 1399, introduced by Delegate Kaiser, addresses the requirements for public information relating to resident agents of corporations and associations in Maryland. The bill mandates that the State Department of Assessments and Taxation disclose specific information regarding each entity's resident agent, including their name, physical mailing address, email address, and telephone number. This initiative aims to enhance the transparency and accessibility of corporate information for stakeholders, such as consumers and other businesses.
Contention
While the bill aims to improve transparency, there may be concerns regarding privacy and the security of personal information shared in the public domain. Opponents may argue that requiring such detailed contact information could expose resident agents to unsolicited communications or spam. Furthermore, businesses might face challenges in adapting to these new requirements, as they may involve updating their records and possibly changing their operational practices to ensure compliance with the new law.