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HB 609

State Transfer Tax - Land Preservation Special Fund - Revenue Allocation

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Chris Adams and 13 co-sponsors

HB 609 dedicates Maryland transfer tax revenues to a new Land Preservation Special Fund, redirecting real estate transaction tax proceeds from general spending to conservation.

Hearing 2/10 at 1:00 p.m.
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Bill Summary · HB 609

Legislative bill overview

HB 609 allocates revenues from Maryland's state transfer tax (a tax on real estate transactions) to a new Land Preservation Special Fund. The bill redirects a portion of transfer tax proceeds that would otherwise go to the general fund toward dedicated land conservation and preservation efforts.

Why is this important

Land preservation funding directly affects property values, environmental protection, agricultural land retention, and public access to natural spaces. This mechanism creates a dedicated revenue stream for conservation without requiring new taxes, though it does reduce general fund resources available for other state programs.

Potential points of contention

  • General fund impact: Redirecting transfer tax revenue reduces discretionary spending available for education, healthcare, infrastructure, and other programs that compete for state dollars
  • Real estate market effects: Some argue transfer taxes influence property transaction costs and housing affordability; dedicating more revenue to this fund could intensify concerns about transaction costs for homebuyers
  • Land preservation priorities: Disagreement may exist over which lands should be prioritized for preservation (agricultural, environmental, recreational) and whether the fund allocation methodology serves statewide versus regional interests

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

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