MARYLAND - As Baltimore rings in 2026, the city is bracing for a suite of legislative changes that will fundamentally alter the landscape for renters, first responders, and families trying to preserve their homes.
From aggressive new safety inspections for apartment buildings to a significant shift in how the state protects generational wealth, here are the three most essential laws taking effect in Charm City on January 1, 2026.
1. The Strengthening Renters' Safety Act: A Crackdown on "Priority Dwellings."
For years, Baltimore residents in large multi-family buildings have struggled with slow responses to health and safety violations. Starting January 1st, the City Council is shifting the power dynamic with the Strengthening Renters' Safety Act.
- The "Priority List": The city will now officially designate "Priority Dwellings"—rental buildings with 20 or more units that have recurring health violations or failed federal inspections.
- Mandatory Inspections: These high-risk properties will be subject to compulsory "Priority Inspections" at least twice a year. If a landlord fails to abate violations within 90 days, they risk having their rental license suspended or revoked entirely.
- Non-Transferable Licenses: In a major blow to speculative investors, rental licenses in Baltimore will no longer be transferable. If a problem property is sold, the new owner must apply for a fresh license within 60 days, ensuring they are held accountable for the building's condition from day one.
2. The Heir Property Protection Act (HB 59): Keeping Families in Their Homes
Baltimore has long been plagued by the "heir property" crisis, where families lose their homes to tax sales because the property was never legally transferred after a parent or grandparent passed away. House Bill 59 changes the game starting New Year's Day.
- The Tax Sale Shield: Counties (including Baltimore City) are now required to withhold owner-occupied properties and those lived in by heirs from the annual tax sale.
- The Registry: The law establishes a formal registry where families can flag their properties for protection. This prevents developers from snatching up generational homes over small, unpaid tax balances, providing a vital tool for preserving community stability in neighborhoods like West Baltimore and East Baltimore.
3. The James "Jimmy" Malone Act: No-Cost Cancer Screenings for Firefighters
Named in honor of a local career firefighter and former state delegate, the James "Jimmy" Malone Act takes effect on January 1st to address the high rate of occupational cancer among first responders.
- Zero-Cost Healthcare: The law mandates that self-insured health plans (which cover many of Baltimore’s first responders) must provide preventive cancer screenings with no copay, deductible, or coinsurance.
- Advanced Technology: Beyond standard exams, the law allows for "multi-cancer early detection" blood tests and advanced imaging. This is a massive victory for the unions and families who have fought for better health protections for the men and women who face toxic smoke and chemicals every day.
Other Notable 1st-of-the-Year Changes
While the laws above are the biggest "headliners," a few other state-wide rules will also impact Baltimoreans starting January 1st:
- Rideshare Transparency: Uber and Lyft drivers must now receive a detailed weekly summary showing exactly how much of each passenger's fare they are taking home.
- Domestic Violence Awareness Training: Barbers and cosmetologists in Maryland must now complete one hour of domestic violence awareness training as a condition for their license renewal, leveraging the unique bond between stylists and their clients.