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HB 724

Commission on Abandoned and Neglected Maryland Cemeteries - Establishment

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Terri Hill and 4 co-sponsors

HB 724 creates a state commission to investigate abandoned Maryland cemeteries and recommend restoration solutions and regulatory frameworks.

Hearing 2/18 at 1:00 p.m.
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Bill Summary · HB 724

Legislative bill overview

HB 724 establishes a Commission on Abandoned and Neglected Maryland Cemeteries to assess, document, and develop solutions for the state's deteriorating burial grounds. The commission would study the scope of cemetery neglect, identify responsible parties, and recommend legislative or regulatory remedies to address maintenance and preservation issues.

Why is this important

Abandoned and neglected cemeteries represent both a public health concern and a cultural heritage issue, particularly affecting African American burial grounds and historic sites that lack adequate funding or responsible stewardship. Creating a dedicated commission signals state commitment to cataloging these sites and potentially establishing funding mechanisms or legal frameworks to restore and protect them.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding and implementation costs: Whether the state should bear financial responsibility for restoring privately-owned or historically neglected cemeteries, and who ultimately pays for ongoing maintenance
  • Property rights and liability: Clarifying who bears legal responsibility for abandoned cemeteries and how the state can compel repairs without infringing on private ownership
  • Scope and resources: Whether a commission alone is sufficient or if legislation must follow with actual enforcement mechanisms and budget allocations

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

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