MarylandSB 06532026 Regular SessionSenateWALLET

State Board of Architects - Grounds for Discipline and Anonymous Complaints

Sponsored By: Cheryl C. Kagan (Democratic)

Signed by Governor

Business Occupations and ProfessionsArchitects and ArchitectureBuilding CodesBuilding PermitsCommerce and Business -see also- ElectrComm; ForeignTr; etc.Committees and CommissionsConstructionCounties -see also- Chartered Counties; Code Counties; etc.Crimes and Punishments -see also- Penalties and Sentnc; etc.DisciplineElectronic CommunicationElectronic GovernmentEthicsEvaluations and ReviewsLicenses -see also- AB Lic; Certifications; DrLic; PermitsNoticesPenalties and Sentences -see also- Death PenaltyPermits -see also- Building PermitsPrivacyReportsStandards and Best PracticesWork, Labor, and Employment -see also- JobTrn; Leave; etc.

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

4 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 2 mixed.

Stronger discipline and fines for architects

Beginning October 1, 2026, the Board can deny, suspend, or revoke an architect’s license for fraud, gross negligence, incompetence, misconduct, rule violations, aiding unlicensed practice, certain crimes, or out‑of‑state discipline. It can also fine up to $5,000 for each violation. When a license is suspended or revoked, the Board notifies every county code official. The Board acts by majority vote and follows its hearing rules.

Anonymous portal to report architect violations

Beginning October 1, 2026, the Board may run an online portal for anonymous, confidential reports of suspected architect‑practice violations. Tips can trigger Board investigations and discipline under the law.

Code officials must verify architect seals

Beginning October 1, 2026, code officials must verify the signing architect’s seal and license before processing a permit. This check applies in every Maryland county. It helps stop fraudulent or improper plans and may add a short review step.

More Board notices and address rules for architects

Beginning October 1, 2026, the Board keeps a list of all licensees and their mailing addresses. It gives each code official a copy every year, and sells public copies for a reasonable fee. Licensees must provide a mailing address at issue and at each renewal. The Board sends applicants and code officials the Architects Act and rules, gives licensees updates at renewal, and sends a newsletter at least twice a year. The newsletter is also posted online with related design boards.

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Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Cheryl C. Kagan
Democratic • Senate

Cosponsors

There are no cosponsors for this bill.

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 174 • No: 0

House vote • 4/8/2026

Third Reading Passed

Yes: 129 • No: 0 • Other: 6

Senate vote • 3/12/2026

Third Reading Passed

Yes: 45 • No: 0 • Other: 2

Actions Timeline

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 245
4/28/2026
Returned Passed
4/9/2026Senate
Third Reading Passed (129-0)
4/8/2026House
Favorable Adopted Second Reading Passed
4/8/2026House
Favorable Report by Economic Matters
4/8/2026House
Referred Economic Matters
3/13/2026House
Third Reading Passed (45-0)
3/12/2026Senate
Second Reading Passed with Amendments
3/10/2026Senate
Favorable with Amendments {473023/1 Adopted
3/10/2026Senate
Favorable with Amendments Report by Education, Energy, and the Environment
3/9/2026Senate
Hearing 2/26 at 1:00 p.m.
2/11/2026Senate
First Reading Education, Energy, and the Environment
2/6/2026Senate

Bill Text

Third Reading
3/10/2026
PDF
First Reading
2/6/2026
PDF

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