MD HB1016

Establishes the Baltimore Convention and Tourism Redevelopment and Operating Authority as a State instrumentality to govern renovation, revitalization, and ongoing maintenance of the Baltimore Convention site and oversee Visit Baltimore's destination marketing efforts

Authority board consists of 15 members serving 4-year staggered terms, including 9 appointed by the Mayor of Baltimore City, 2 by the Governor, and 1 each by the Senate President, House Speaker, Restaurant Association of Maryland, and Maryland Hotel Lodging Association

Grants the Authority broad powers to enter contracts, acquire and dispose of property, set fees and rates, hire staff, accept grants, and create subsidiary entities for convention site operations

Extends the existing Task Force through June 30, 2026 (from June 30, 2025) and requires it to identify funding sources and mechanisms for renovation projects and Authority operations, with a report due December 1, 2025

Authority is exempt from State and local taxation and most procurement and personnel requirements, but remains subject to the Public Information Act, Open Meetings Act, and Public Ethics Law, with annual audits and reports required starting October 1, 2026