MD HB1239

Authorizes the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development to adopt regulations for affirmatively furthering fair housing requirements

Establishes that discriminatory housing practices can be committed without intent, allowing claims based on discriminatory effect regardless of whether discrimination was intentional

Prohibits actions with discriminatory effect in the sale, rental, terms, conditions, or services related to dwellings based on race, color, religion, sex, disability, marital status, familial status, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, source of income, or military status

Creates an affirmative defense for actions that were without discriminatory intent, justified by legitimate business necessity, and could not have been accomplished through less discriminatory means

Takes effect October 1, 2025