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MD SB233
Bill
Status
Engrossed
2/19/2026
Primary Sponsor
Johnny Salling
Click for details
AI Summary
- Cemetery owners (registered cemeterians, permit holders, and exempt owners) must obtain approval from the Director of the Office of Cemetery Oversight before selling or transferring a cemetery for non-cemetery use
- Religious organizations that own cemeteries are exempt from most requirements but must still attempt to identify and contact descendants, individuals with unused plots, and those who have maintained the cemetery
- Public notice requirements include publishing in a local newspaper for 9 successive weeks, posting written notice at the cemetery for at least 60 days, notifying genealogical and historical societies, and holding a public meeting
- State, county, or municipal governments may acquire abandoned cemeteries (where ownership or responsible parties cannot be determined) and transfer them to descendant community organizations or nonprofits that agree to maintain and preserve them
- Effective date is October 1, 2026
Legislative Description
Business Regulation - Cemeteries - Requirements for Sale or Transfer or Government Acquisition
Notices
Last Action
Referred Economic Matters Health
2/20/2026
Committee Referrals
Economic Matters2/20/2026
Finance1/15/2026
Full Bill Text
No bill text available