MarylandHB 04132026 Regular SessionHouseWALLET

Maryland-Ireland Trade Commission - Membership and Termination - Altered and Extended

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 2 mixed.

Maryland–Ireland trade commission starts work

The law creates the Maryland–Ireland Trade Commission in state government. It studies and recommends ways to grow trade, investment, and business and academic exchanges with Ireland. It also looks at joint policy steps and infrastructure investment. Beginning July 1, 2026, the Commission reports to the Governor and General Assembly by December 1, 2026, and then every December 1. The law remains in force until September 30, 2028.

Commission members unpaid, travel reimbursed

Commission members do not receive pay for serving. They can be repaid for travel and other eligible costs under State travel rules, if funded in the State budget. These rules apply from July 1, 2026 through September 30, 2028.

Who serves on the trade commission

Members include the Secretary and the Secretary of State, or their designees. One Senator is named by the Senate President, and one Delegate by the House Speaker. The Governor, with Senate consent, appoints six members: one from a public college, one from the Maryland Chamber of Commerce, two from the Irish–American community (not the same political party), and two from the private sector. The Commission elects a chair and vice chair. The Governor may remove an appointed member for incompetence, misconduct, or failure to do the job. These rules apply from July 1, 2026 through September 30, 2028.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Kenneth Kerr
Democratic • House

Cosponsors

Heather Bagnall
Democratic • House
Bonnie Cullison
Democratic • House
Dana Jones
Democratic • House
Anne Healey
Democratic • House
Mary A. Lehman
Democratic • House
Vaughn Stewart
Democratic • House
Ron Watson
Democratic • Senate

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 182 • No: 0

Senate vote • 4/6/2026

Third Reading Passed

Yes: 46 • No: 0 • Other: 1

House vote • 3/11/2026