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HB 791

Baltimore County - Residential Real Property - Moratorium on Assessment Increases and Review of Assessment Practices and Methodology

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Bob Long and 1 co-sponsor

HB 791 freezes Baltimore County residential property tax assessment increases and requires review of assessment practices to address affordability concerns and potential valuation inequities.

Hearing 2/24 at 1:00 p.m.
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Bill Summary · HB 791

Legislative bill overview

HB 791 imposes a temporary freeze on residential property tax assessment increases in Baltimore County while mandating a comprehensive review of the county's assessment practices and methodology. The bill aims to address concerns about rapidly rising property valuations and the resulting tax burden on homeowners during a period of reassessment.

Why is this important

Property tax assessments directly affect homeowner costs and county revenue, making this a high-stakes issue for residents facing affordability pressures. A moratorium on increases could provide relief but may create budgetary challenges for county services, while a systematic review could reveal whether current assessment practices are equitable or prone to error.

Potential points of contention

  • Revenue impact: A freeze on assessment increases will reduce county tax revenue during the moratorium period, requiring either service cuts or other funding sources
  • Equity concerns: A blanket moratorium may protect some homeowners while disadvantaging those newly assessed or those in properties that haven't been recently reassessed, creating disparities
  • Assessment methodology debate: The review could reveal flawed practices or confirm current methods are sound, with stakeholders likely disagreeing on needed reforms and implementation timelines

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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