MD HB716

Includes the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development in the definition of "public housing agency," allowing it to directly administer the Statewide Rental Assistance Voucher Program and project-base up to 100% of its authorized voucher units

Permits public housing agencies to administer the State Program according to their local administrative plans rather than requiring uniform statewide administration

Increases the maximum rent and utilities payment expected from assisted families from 30% to 40% of monthly adjusted gross income, determined at the time of initial assistance

Changes inspection requirements from annual to biennial (every two years), with inspections conducted according to each public housing agency's administrative plan

Modifies administrative funding distribution from a flat 6% to the greater of the federal de minimis rate or 15% of appropriated funds to help public housing agencies cover staffing expenses