MD HB1228

Maryland Department of Commerce must conduct a study of economic development and the tourist/visitor economy in the Montgomery County Agricultural Reserve, in coordination with the Montgomery County Planning Board, Office of Agricultural Services, University of Maryland Extension, and Visit Montgomery

Study must examine visitor motivations and origins, identify small businesses and historic/recreation sites in the Reserve, analyze tourism's economic contribution, assess barriers deterring visitors, and develop policy recommendations

Research methods include working with local organizations on visitor volume data, surveying visitors about behavior and attitudes, conducting stakeholder interviews if necessary, and reviewing data models on upstream and downstream economic impacts

Department of Commerce must report findings to the Montgomery County Delegation to the General Assembly by June 30, 2026

Act takes effect July 1, 2025; signed by Governor Wes Moore on April 22, 2025