On January 28, Legislative Director Kevin Kinnally testified before the Ways and Means Committee in support of HB 87 – Short-Term Rentals and Home Amenity Rentals – Taxation, Regulation, and Crimes with amendments to clarify provisions and incorporate needed sponsor amendments.
Short-term rentals (STRs) pose unique challenges for local communities. While they promote tourism and provide supplemental income for homeowners, they also risk destabilizing residential neighborhoods, reducing long-term rental availability, and undermining local economies when dominated by commercial investors.
Unlike hotels and other accommodation providers, STRs often bypass essential health and safety standards designed to protect residents and visitors. HB 87 addresses these concerns by requiring STRs to meet reasonable safety, reporting, and taxation requirements. Amendments to the bill will streamline compliance through centralized tax collection by the Comptroller’s Office, ensuring efficient administration, consistent enforcement, and fair revenue distribution supporting local services.
MACo is happy to work with the sponsor and the Committee to draft clarifying amendments that ensure efficient and effective tax administration, enhance public safety, and resolve practical implementation concerns.
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