Hundreds of new Maryland laws passed during the 2026 legislative session are going into effect today, including updates to existing legislation and all-new laws. Some of the most noteworthy include protections for creative expression and restrictions on dynamic pricing, but many of the new laws affect families with children.
Here’s what you need to know about some of the new legislation that may impact you and your family. All of the new laws going into effect on Oct. 1 can be viewed here.
SB 369 Chapter 361
Requires people who work with children in childcare settings to participate in a criminal history records check, and the Maryland State Department of Education must establish a unit to process these background checks by June 30, 2027.
HB 497 Chapter 791
Extends temporary protective orders to last up to 14 days; they previously lasted up to seven days. Families waiting for a verdict in a domestic abuse case will now have an extra week of court-ordered protection.
SB 937 Chapter 752
Better known as the Maryland Fair Chance Housing Act, this law prevents landlords from requesting information on prospective tenants’ criminal backgrounds or requiring drug or alcohol testing. For families seeking rental housing, this means that a minor offense may not disqualify them from securing a safe place to stay.
Similarly, HB 315 Chapter 772 and SB 335 Chapter 773 state that landlords cannot discriminate against or refuse rent to tenants using income-based housing subsidies.
SB 487 Chapter 285
The Vulnerable Road User Protection Act of 2026 allows the State Highway Administration to implement safety corridor speed monitoring systems in areas frequented by vulnerable road users, including children and seniors.
HB 1181 Chapter 159
Children in out-of-home placements, such as children who may have disabilities or specific mental health needs, will have some of their provisions changed. The Department of Human Services and the Maryland Department of Health must submit a report on children in out-of-home placements by Oct. 1, 2029.
