MD HB1436

The Office of the Attorney General must investigate grievances and mediate disputes between clients and providers of federal and state assisted housing programs, including public housing, Housing Choice Vouchers, and emergency shelters.

Clients may file grievances regarding housing conditions, lease violations, or program rule adherence; the Office must create standard grievance forms, establish a toll-free hotline, and refer unresolved cases to Legal Aid Bureaus.

Housing providers must attach grievance process notices to all lease and participation agreements at program entry and distribute notices annually to existing clients.

The Office may bring legal action for injunctive relief or damages if providers fail to cooperate with investigations or violate state or federal housing law; providers found in violation must make harmed clients whole.

Annual reporting to the General Assembly is required on the number, reasons, and outcomes of grievances received; the Act takes effect July 1, 2026.