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HB 343

Housing Development Projects - Housing Counseling Services

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Sandy Rosenberg

Maryland bill requiring housing developers to provide or fund resident counseling services on homeownership, finances, and tenant rights to improve housing literacy and stability.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 64
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Bill Summary · HB 343

Legislative bill overview

HB 343 requires housing development projects in Maryland to provide or fund housing counseling services for residents. The bill appears to mandate that developers include educational and advisory services to help residents understand homeownership, rental agreements, financial management, and tenant rights as part of their projects.

Why is this important

Housing counseling can reduce foreclosures, improve financial literacy, and help residents understand their rights and responsibilities. This could particularly benefit first-time homebuyers and renters in new developments who may lack experience navigating housing markets or contracts.

Potential points of contention

  • Developer costs and compliance burden: Requiring developers to fund counseling services increases project costs, which may be passed to buyers/renters or discourage new housing development in a state facing housing affordability challenges
  • Scope and duration ambiguity: The bill's requirements regarding who provides counseling, how long services must be available, and what topics must be covered are unclear from the title alone and could create compliance uncertainty
  • Market feasibility concerns: Mandating additional services in competitive markets may disadvantage Maryland developers compared to out-of-state competitors, potentially reducing housing supply rather than improving it

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

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