Baltimore, January 1, 2026
Maryland has enacted new laws effective January 1, 2026, aimed at enhancing protections in housing, labor, and health sectors. These changes include tax sale protections for homeowners, mandatory domestic violence training for barbers and cosmetologists, and improved healthcare access for firefighters and patients. The legislative updates reflect Maryland’s commitment to quality of life and a supportive environment for residents and businesses.
New Year, New Laws: Maryland’s 2026 Legislative Changes Impact Housing, Labor, and Health
As of January 1, 2026, Baltimore, MD, is witnessing a myriad of new laws that seek to bolster protections for residents and workers across the state. These legislative changes, while aimed at improving quality of life, also present opportunities for local entrepreneurs and businesses to thrive in a supportive regulatory environment.
The implementation of these laws reflects Maryland’s commitment to addressing essential issues, including housing stability, labor protections, and healthcare access. By fostering a more robust legal framework, the state encourages innovation and investment while providing essential services to its residents.
Housing Protections and Reforms
Tax Sale Protections for Homeowners and Heirs
House Bill 59 introduces critical safeguards that prevent the loss of owner-occupied and inherited properties through tax sales. This law establishes a statewide registry for heir properties, allowing families additional notice and time to settle tax debts before a sale may occur. Such protections not only secure family legacies but also incentivize stability within communities.
Labor and Employment Updates
Domestic Violence Awareness Training for Barbers and Cosmetologists
Effective January 1, 2026, House Bill 1547 mandates that barbers and cosmetologists complete at least one hour of domestic violence awareness training when applying for or renewing their licenses. This initiative not only promotes better service but also supports community safety by empowering professionals to recognize and respond to abuse effectively.
Health Care Enhancements
Free Cancer Screenings for Firefighters
Under House Bill 459, counties with self-insured health plans must provide free preventive cancer screenings for professional firefighters. This proactive approach to health care not only safeguards the well-being of invaluable first responders but also paves the way for future studies by mandating the collection of cancer-related health data.
Expanded Hearing Aid Coverage
House Bill 1355 requires health plans to cover all medically necessary adult hearing aids when ordered, fitted, and dispensed by a licensed hearing aid dispenser. This enhancement improves access to vital health resources for those living with hearing impairments, ultimately fostering a more inclusive community.
Access to Out-of-Network Specialists
House Bill 11 ensures that patients referred to out-of-network specialists due to the unavailability of in-network providers will receive in-network level coverage. By preventing additional utilization review requirements and balance billing, this law promotes fair treatment of patients and underscores the importance of access to quality health care services.
Background Context
These legislative changes echo Maryland’s ongoing efforts to tackle critical issues in housing stability, worker protections, and health care access. By enacting these laws, the state aims to improve quality of life for its residents and foster a business-friendly environment through reduced regulatory burdens, allowing for enhanced local entrepreneurship.
Key Features of Maryland’s New Laws Effective January 1, 2026
| Law | Sector | Key Provisions |
|---|---|---|
| House Bill 59 | Housing | Establishes tax sale protections for homeowners and heirs, including a statewide registry for heir properties. |
| House Bill 1547 | Labor | Requires barbers and cosmetologists to complete domestic violence awareness training for license applications and renewals. |
| House Bill 459 | Health | Mandates free preventive cancer screenings for professional firefighters in counties with self-insured health plans. |
| House Bill 1355 | Health | Requires health plans to cover all medically necessary adult hearing aids when ordered, fitted, and dispensed by a licensed hearing aid dispenser. |
| House Bill 11 | Health | Ensures patients referred to out-of-network specialists due to the unavailability of in-network providers receive in-network level coverage. |
FAQ
What is House Bill 59?
House Bill 59 introduces safeguards to prevent the loss of owner-occupied and inherited properties through tax sales. The law establishes a statewide registry for heir properties, offering families additional notice and time to resolve tax debts before a sale can occur.
What does House Bill 1547 require?
Effective January 1, 2026, House Bill 1547 mandates that barbers and cosmetologists complete at least one hour of domestic violence awareness training when applying for or renewing their licenses.
What is the purpose of House Bill 459?
Under House Bill 459, counties with self-insured health plans are required to provide free preventive cancer screenings to professional firefighters, including screenings for various types of cancer.
What does House Bill 1355 entail?
House Bill 1355 requires health plans to cover all medically necessary adult hearing aids when ordered, fitted, and dispensed by a licensed hearing aid dispenser.
What is the significance of House Bill 11?
House Bill 11 ensures that patients referred to out-of-network specialists due to the unavailability of in-network providers will receive in-network level coverage, preventing additional utilization review requirements and balance billing.
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Author: STAFF HERE BALTIMORE WRITER
The BALTIMORE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBaltimore.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Baltimore, Baltimore County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Baltimore Book Festival, Preakness Stakes, and Artscape. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Baltimore Chamber of Commerce and Visit Baltimore, plus leading businesses in shipping and healthcare that power the local economy such as the Port of Baltimore and Johns Hopkins Medicine. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Maryland's dynamic landscape.
