MD HB1617

Local zoning authorities in Maryland counties may designate "Health Innovation Zones" in areas that are food or health care deserts with high rates of cancer, diabetes, heart disease, or hypertension and low prevalence of grocery stores, pharmacies, and care providers

Prince George's County Council is required to designate Health Innovation Zones in the Blue Line Corridor and within 2 miles of the District of Columbia border, with authority to designate additional zones meeting the criteria

Beginning in fiscal year 2028, the Governor must include at least $5,000,000 annually in the budget for the Maryland Economic Development Corporation (MEDCO) to encourage grocery stores, pharmacies, and health care providers to locate in Prince George's County Health Innovation Zones

Grocery stores, pharmacies, primary care providers, and specialty care providers located in designated Health Innovation Zones are exempt from local zoning and land use laws

Effective date is October 1, 2026