MD SB653

State Board of Architects must now deny, reprimand, or suspend licenses for violations including fraud, gross negligence, incompetence, or misconduct (changed from discretionary "may" to mandatory "shall")

Board may impose penalties up to $5,000 per violation in addition to or instead of license suspension/revocation

Board must notify county code officials when an architect's license is suspended or revoked

Board may establish an electronic portal for anonymous and confidential reporting of suspected violations of architecture licensing laws

County code officials must verify an architect's seal and license with the architect who signed documents before processing building permits

Effective date: October 1, 2026