On January 21, Director of Intergovernmental Relations Dominic Butchko submitted testimony to the Education, Energy, and the Environment Committee in support of SB 234 – Department of Housing and Community Development – Homeless Shelter Certification Program – Establishment with amendments. This bill grants the Maryland Department of Housing & Community Development (DHCD) the ability to regulate homeless shelters.
Counties initially opposed this legislation when it was introduced in 2024, citing several concerns around implementation. Over the interim, DHCD has worked closely with local implementors and MACo to address county reservations and provide better services to our mutual constituents. MACo suggested several amendments and is continuing dialogue with the Department on additional points of clarification.
Counties recognize and broadly support the intent of SB 234. When members of our community may be at their lowest, they should have options that grant them dignity and decency. MACo remains committed to working with the Committee and DHCD to address the remaining points of clarification and thanks the Department for their continued close collaboration.
SB 234’s cross-file, HB 93, was heard on February 4 in the House Environment and Transportation Committee. Dominic Butchko testified in support of this bill with amendments.
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