On February 26, Director of Intergovernmental Relations Dominic Butchko submitted written testimony to the Economic Matters Committee in support of HB 774 – Landlord and Tenant – Residential Leases and Holdover Tenancies – Local Good Cause Termination (Good Cause Eviction). 

The bill would authorize counties to establish laws preventing landlords from failing to renew or terminating leases without just cause.

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic—when eviction risks, rental debt, and employment volatility placed unprecedented strain on Maryland households—several counties sought clear authority to address housing instability at the local level. This measure responds with a flexible tool, grounded in local lawmaking processes and public input, to help counties protect vulnerable residents and tailor solutions to the unique needs of their communities.

From MACo Testimony: 

HB 774 simply provides a tool for counties, through their local process that always includes public input and comment, to prevent housing instability and inequity tailored to the needs of their respective communities.

More on MACo’s Advocacy: 

• Follow MACo’s advocacy efforts during the 2026 legislative session on MACo’s Legislative Tracking Database
• Learn more about MACo’s 2026 Legislative Initiatives
• Read more General Assembly News on MACo’s Conduit Street blog