New legislation enacted during Maryland’s 2026 legislative session has officially come into effect. With new statutes touching everything from public safety to housing access, staying informed is key to navigating everyday life across Prince George’s County and the state.

Here’s a breakdown of five major law updates taking effect this fall that every resident, worker, and family should know about:

1. The Protection From Predatory Pricing Act

Shopping for groceries or ordering dinner through a delivery app is getting more transparent. Under HB 895, Maryland has become the first state in the nation to restrict food retailers and third-party delivery services from utilizing dynamic or surveillance pricing. Retailers and delivery apps can no longer surge food prices based on real-time weather conditions, time of day, or algorithmic tracking of personal consumer data.

2. Maryland Fair Chance Housing Act

Finding housing gets a fairer playing field for Marylanders with a past record. Under SB 937, residential landlords are generally required to make a conditional offer of tenancy before checking an applicant’s criminal background. If an offer is subsequently withdrawn due to criminal history, the landlord must provide a written justification and allow the applicant an opportunity to request a reassessment. Additionally, covered landlords are prohibited from requiring prospective tenants to undergo drug or alcohol screening.

3. Out-of-State Vehicle Registration Crackdown (“Plate Where You Live”)

Prince George’s County drivers keeping out-of-state license plates while living in Maryland face stricter enforcement. The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) is cracking down on out-of-state registrations, giving residents 60 days to register their vehicles locally. Vehicle owners who fail to register within 60 days face civil fines of $7 per day. After 120 days of non-compliance, local jurisdictions have the authority to pursue further civil remedies, including vehicle towing, impoundment, or booting.

4. Police Face-Covering & Transparency Regulations

To increase accountability and public trust, statewide standards have been enacted regarding law enforcement attire. Under SB 1, the Maryland Police Training and Standards Commission has established policies generally prohibiting law enforcement officers—including state and federal agents operating within Maryland—from wearing face coverings while on duty. Exceptions exist for extreme weather and medical conditions, but officers are required to display clear, visible identification during public encounters.

5. Kanaiyah’s Law (Foster Care Protection Reforms)

Named in honor of Kanaiyah Ward, a 16-year-old girl who tragically lost her life while in the state foster care system, HB 980 enacts critical child welfare protections. The law officially bans the practice of housing foster care youth in unlicensed temporary facilities like hotels or office buildings. It also mandates thorough criminal background checks for all adults residing in court-appointed guardianship homes and establishes an independent ombudsman to oversee foster care complaints and compliance across the state.