Governor Wes Moore signed a package of three major housing bills into law today, marking a significant push to tackle Maryland’s affordable housing crisis. The legislation, which was a key part of the Moore-Miller Administration’s 2024 legislative agenda, aims to tackle concentrated poverty, increase housing supply, and strengthen renter protections across the state.”Building a stronger housing market and tackling our shortage of 96,000 units can’t wait any longer,” Governor Moore stated at the bill signing ceremony. “We introduced the most comprehensive housing package of any recent Maryland administration – and we were unapologetic about putting this issue front and center.”
Centerpiece of Governor’s Affordable Housing Agenda
The Housing Expansion and Affordability Act stands as the centerpiece of the administration’s efforts. By removing barriers to development, modernizing land use laws, and expediting approvals for transit-oriented projects, former state-owned sites, and affordable housing by nonprofits, the bill aims to incentivize new construction and ease supply constraints that have driven up housing costs.
Other Key Measures
The Housing and Community Development Financing Act unlocks federal funding for investments in disadvantaged communities. It creates the Maryland Community Investment Corporation and provides tools to rehabilitate vacant properties. Additionally, the Renters’ Rights and Stabilization Act bolsters protections for tenants facing instability. It establishes the Office of Tenant and Landlord Affairs, creates a statewide Tenants Bill of Rights, increases eviction filing fees, reduces required security deposits, and facilitates pathways to homeownership.
“Thanks to the Governor’s leadership and collaboration with legislators and advocates, this session was the most impactful for housing in recent Maryland history,” said Secretary Jake Day of the Department of Housing and Community Development. “It marks a turning point for the state to reduce the housing shortage, protect renters, and ultimately make Maryland a more affordable and desirable place to live.
“The bills represent a major policy focus for the Moore-Miller Administration’s legislative agenda to expand economic opportunity and make housing more attainable for Marylanders statewide.
