MD HB961

Prohibits entities from requiring artists to waive copyright protections or rights under the Visual Artists Rights Act (17 U.S.C. § 106A) in contracts for state-funded public art projects

Artists retain the option to voluntarily waive their copyright or moral rights in state public art contracts

Courts may not enforce waivers of artist rights that were included in contracts entered into before October 1, 2025

Requires all state public art to be registered with the Maryland State Arts Council, including artist contact information, art location, type, title, and installation date

Takes effect October 1, 2025