On February 6, 2024, MACo Legislative Director Kevin Kinnally submitted written testimony to the House Health and Government Operations Committee supporting HB 418- Grant Applications and Reporting- Maryland Efficient Grant Application Council- Alterations. This bill contemplates a State Grants Ombudsperson to collect and disseminate federal, state, and local grant opportunities, which would benefit county governments and, in turn, shared constituents.
The Maryland Efficient Grant Application Council is charged with improving efficiency, eliminating redundant processes, reducing paperwork and administrative burdens on both granting agencies and grant recipients, and facilitating the development and implementation of a statewide centralized grants management and accountability system.
HB 418 requires the Council to study the feasibility of a State Grants Ombudsperson to provide technical assistance with (1) accessing and navigating state grant programs, (2) resolving delays in the grant–making process, and (3) collecting and disseminating information on opportunities for grants from federal, state, and local governments.
Counties believe this bill will streamline the grantmaking process, level the playing field for all local governments, and provide crucial information for county leaders to pass on to their constituents and local businesses.
HB 418’s cross-file, SB 459, was heard on February 7, 2024 in the Senate Budget and Taxation Committee. Kevin Kinnally testified in support of this bill. SB 459 was heard in the opposite chamber, the House Health and Government Operations Committee, on March 19. MACo submitted testimony in support of this bill.
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