Maryland House Bill HB1073

Maryland 2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/10/26
• Refer: 2/10/26

Caption

Landlord and Tenant - Residential Leases - Prospective Tenant Criminal History Records Check (Maryland Fair Chance Housing Act)

Impact

The implementation of HB 1073 will affect landlord and tenant interactions by creating stricter limitations on how criminal histories are utilized in the tenant screening process. It requires landlords to consider evidence from prospective tenants that may demonstrate rehabilitation or inaccuracies in criminal records before making leasing decisions. Moreover, it establishes that failure to conduct a criminal history check or leasing to someone with a criminal record cannot invoke legal claims against landlords. This measure is expected to improve housing accessibility for individuals with criminal backgrounds while fostering a more equitable rental market.

Summary

House Bill 1073, titled the 'Maryland Fair Chance Housing Act', seeks to modify the regulations surrounding the rental process for prospective tenants with a criminal history. The bill prohibits landlords from requiring applicants to disclose their criminal history prior to extending a conditional offer for lease. As part of its provisions, it mandates that landlords can only consider certain criminal records after a conditional offer is made, which aligns with efforts to provide fair housing opportunities to individuals who may have previously been incarcerated. This change aims to reduce discrimination based on criminal history in the rental market and promote rehabilitation and reintegration into society for affected individuals.

Contention

Debate surrounding HB 1073 has focused on the balance between ensuring tenant rights and the inherent responsibilities of landlords to maintain safe housing environments. Proponents argue that the bill recognizes the need for second chances and prevents unnecessary discrimination, thereby aiding in community reintegration for formerly incarcerated individuals. However, critics express concerns that the bill might compromise tenant safety by limiting landlords' ability to screen potential renters thoroughly. As these discussions continue, the underlying tension between social equity and safety remains a central point of contention in the legislative process.