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SB 819

Judicial In Rem Tax Foreclosure - Notice Requirements

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Antonio Hayes

Maryland bill strengthens judicial tax foreclosure notice requirements to ensure property owners receive clearer, more detailed warnings before losing homes to unpaid property taxes.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 739
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 819

Legislative bill overview

SB 819 modifies Maryland's judicial in rem tax foreclosure process by establishing enhanced notice requirements for property owners facing tax sales. The bill appears to strengthen procedural safeguards by requiring more explicit or detailed notification before properties can be foreclosed due to unpaid property taxes.

Why is this important

Tax foreclosures directly affect property ownership and can result in homeowners losing their homes due to accumulated tax debt. Improved notice requirements can protect vulnerable populations—including elderly, low-income, or non-English-speaking residents—who might otherwise lose property without adequate opportunity to remedy the debt or explore alternatives.

Potential points of contention

  • Property tax collection efficiency: County governments and tax collection agencies may argue that enhanced notice requirements delay the foreclosure process and reduce revenue recovery, potentially increasing administrative costs
  • Scope and cost of notifications: Disputes may arise over how extensive notices must be (certified mail, multiple languages, publication methods) and who bears implementation costs
  • Balancing property rights with debt collection: Tension between protecting homeowners from losing assets through procedural protections versus ensuring local governments can collect legitimate tax obligations owed to schools and services

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

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