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HB 485

State Board of Professional Landscape Architects - Revisions

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Steve Johnson

HB 485 revises Maryland's landscape architect licensing and board regulations, affecting professional standards and market entry for design practitioners.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 224
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Bill Summary · HB 485

Legislative bill overview

HB 485 modifies the regulatory framework governing Maryland's State Board of Professional Landscape Architects, likely adjusting licensing requirements, board composition, or professional standards. The bill has completed its first reading in the Economic Matters committee and is scheduled for a hearing on February 11, 2026.

Why is this important

Landscape architect regulations directly affect both professional practitioners and public consumers of design services. Changes to licensing or board structure can impact market entry for new professionals, the quality of outdoor design projects, and how disputes or complaints are handled within the industry.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of changes unclear: Without access to the bill's specific text, the exact revisions remain undefined—they could range from minor administrative updates to substantial practice restrictions that practitioners or the public might oppose
  • Professional versus public interest balance: Any revision risks either being seen as self-serving regulation that limits competition, or conversely, as insufficient protection if standards are lowered
  • Implementation costs and timeline: Board reorganization or new requirements may impose administrative burdens or costs on existing landscape architects seeking compliance

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

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