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HB 1420

Registers of Wills - Appointment of Personal Representatives - Noncitizens

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Gabriel Acevero and 15 co-sponsors

Maryland HB 1420 permits noncitizens to serve as estate personal representatives, removing citizenship requirements for Registers of Wills appointments.

Hearing 3/26 at 1:00 p.m.
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Bill Summary · HB 1420

Legislative bill overview

HB 1420 amends Maryland law to allow noncitizens to be appointed as personal representatives (executors) of estates by Registers of Wills. Currently, Maryland law restricts this role to U.S. citizens. The bill removes citizenship as a qualifying requirement, though other standard qualifications and court oversight would remain in place.

Why is this important

This change affects estate administration for Maryland families with noncitizen members and immigrant communities. It allows estates to be managed by the person the deceased actually designated or the family member most suitable for the role, regardless of citizenship status, potentially reducing delays and costs associated with finding alternative representatives.

Potential points of contention

  • Citizenship and eligibility concerns: Some may argue that estate fiduciary duties should remain restricted to citizens, raising questions about accountability and access to courts for out-of-state or foreign residents
  • Liability and enforcement issues: Questions about how courts would enforce fiduciary duties against noncitizens, particularly those who may reside outside the U.S., and implications for beneficiary protections
  • Implementation clarity: The bill's language regarding which specific noncitizens qualify (permanent residents, temporary visa holders, undocumented immigrants) and whether background checks or bonding requirements differ from citizen appointees

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

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