Maryland 2024 Regular Session

Maryland House Bill HB273

Introduced
1/12/24  

Caption

Real Property - Regulation of Common Ownership Community Managers

Impact

This legislation is expected to enhance the professionalism and accountability of community management services in Maryland. The establishment of the Board will provide a structured framework for monitoring and enforcing standards among licensed community managers. By requiring these managers to obtain licenses and adhere to defined ethical and operational standards, the bill aims to protect community members from potentially unqualified management practices and financial mismanagement. Failure to comply with the duties and standards set forth by the Board may result in penalties, including fines and potential imprisonment for egregious violations.

Summary

House Bill 273 aims to regulate common ownership community managers in Maryland by establishing the State Board of Common Ownership Community Managers. This Board is tasked with overseeing the licensing and regulation of individuals providing management services to common ownership communities, including condominiums, homeowner associations, and cooperative housing corporations. The bill mandates that managers must meet specific training and examination requirements to obtain a license. Furthermore, communities must register with the Board under certain circumstances, ensuring that management practices align with state regulations.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding this bill may arise from the increased regulatory oversight imposed on community managers. Stakeholders concerned about the cost and complexity of compliance with new licensing requirements could argue that it places undue burdens on smaller communities and management firms. Additionally, there may be discussions around the implications of mandatory registration on existing management contracts and the potential for a monetary burden created by new fee structures associated with licensing and registration processes.

Companion Bills

MD HB80

Carry Over Real Property - Regulation of Common Ownership Community Managers

Previously Filed As

MD HB80

Real Property - Regulation of Common Ownership Community Managers

MD HB29

Residential Owners in Common Ownership Communities Bill of Rights

MD HB844

Housing and Community Development - Common Ownership Community Website

MD HB423

Task Force on Common Ownership Communities

MD SB894

Task Force on Common Ownership Communities

MD HB836

Residents of Common Ownership Communities - Discharge of Liabilities in Bankruptcy Proceedings

MD SB929

Commissioner of Financial Regulation - Name and Organization of Office

MD HB379

Commissioner of Financial Regulation - Name and Organization of Office

MD HB892

Environment - Comprehensive Flood Management Grant Program - Funding for Underserved and Overburdened Communities

MD HB548

Financial Regulation - Maryland Community Investment Venture Fund - Establishment (Access to Banking Act)

Similar Bills

MD HB80

Real Property - Regulation of Common Ownership Community Managers

MD HB26

Real Property - Regulation of Common Ownership Community Managers

MD HB303

Real Property - Regulation of Common Ownership Community Managers

MD SB363

Procurement Contracts - Disclosures to Secretary of State - Beneficial Ownership

MD HB1471

Procurement Contracts - Disclosures to Secretary of State - Beneficial Ownership

MD HB112

Persons Doing Public Business – Disclosure Requirements

MD SB291

Persons Doing Public Business - Disclosure Requirements

MD HB1072

Assisted Living Program Licensing - Notice of Applicant Located in Common Ownership Community