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HB 804

Multifamily Dwellings - Smoking Policies

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Frank Conaway and 11 co-sponsors

Maryland bill HB 804 would restrict smoking in multifamily residential buildings to protect non-smoking residents from secondhand smoke exposure in shared housing.

Hearing 2/18 at 1:00 p.m.
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Bill Summary · HB 804

Legislative bill overview

HB 804 would establish smoking restrictions in multifamily residential dwellings (apartments, condos, etc.) in Maryland. The bill, currently in early legislative stages, has been referred to the Environment and Transportation Committee with a hearing scheduled for February 18, 2025.

Why is this important

Secondhand smoke exposure in shared housing affects non-smoking residents who cannot easily escape the smoke. Multifamily buildings present unique challenges since smoke can drift between units through shared ventilation systems, walls, and common areas, potentially exposing children and individuals with respiratory conditions.

Potential points of contention

  • Property rights vs. public health: Landlords and property owners may argue this limits their control over tenant policies and rental agreements, while public health advocates contend secondhand smoke is a health hazard affecting non-consenting residents
  • Enforcement mechanisms: Questions about how restrictions would be monitored and enforced, and whether tenants would have recourse for violations
  • Scope ambiguity: Unclear whether the bill would prohibit all smoking or allow designated areas, and whether it applies to owners of individual units or only common areas, affecting implementation costs and feasibility

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

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