MD HB949

Department of Agriculture must issue an eradication order to landowners when Palmer amaranth (Amaranthus palmeri) is found on their property during inspection

Landowners must eradicate Palmer amaranth within 2 weeks of receiving the order

Department must conduct follow-up inspections every 2 weeks until the Palmer amaranth is fully eradicated

Administrative penalties for violating a Palmer amaranth eradication order: $500 for first violation, $1,000 for second violation, $2,000 for third or subsequent violations

Effective date: October 1, 2026