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MarylandHB 05782026 Regular SessionHouse

Fish and Wildlife - Endangered and Threatened Species and Migratory Birds - Regulations, Lists, Petitions, Essential Habitats, and Takings

Sponsored By: Julie Palakovich Carr (Democratic)

Signed by Governor

Natural Resources - GenerallyAnimals -see also- Birds; Dogs; Domestic An; Horses; LivestkAquacultureBirdsClassifications and DesignationsEnvironmental Matters -see also- Conserv; Nat Resrce; PollutEvaluations and ReviewsFederal GovernmentFish and Fishing -see also- Aquaculture; FishNets&DevLegislation -see also- Correct Leg; Cur Leg; Emerg BillsNatural Resources -see also- Coal; For&Pks; Rivers; etc.Natural Resources, Department ofPetitionsPlants -see also- Invasive Species; Trees; WeedsRules and RegulationsStandards and Best PracticesTimeWildlands

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

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

Protecting special habitats on state land

Beginning October 1, 2026, the Department of Natural Resources designates and maps irreplaceable natural areas on State‑owned land. The rules list what activities are allowed and what are not, and set goals to protect each area. The Secretary must review these rules by July 1, 2033 and at least every 10 years after.

Science-based listing for endangered fish

Beginning October 1, 2026, the Secretary lists or removes fish based on the best science, not economics. Federal endangered or threatened fish are automatically protected in Maryland. The law defines key terms like take, harm, and foreseeable future. The State publishes the lists and reviews them at least every 5 years. Anyone can petition to add or remove a species with required evidence, and the Department must give public notice and review.

State take permits for black vultures

Beginning October 1, 2026, if federal protections for black vultures end, the Department must issue rules to allow taking them, similar to federal depredation permits. This only triggers if federal protections are removed.

New bans and permits for endangered species

Beginning October 1, 2026, Maryland bans taking, selling, transporting, or exporting endangered wildlife and plants. The Secretary can set similar protections for threatened species by rule. Permits are available for science or actions that help a species survive. The Secretary also runs programs to conserve endangered and threatened fish, can buy or manage essential habitats, and works with Agriculture and other governments.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

  • Julie Palakovich Carr

    Democratic • House

Cosponsors

  • Nick Allen

    Democratic • House

  • Dylan Behler

    Democratic • House

  • Regina T. Boyce

    Democratic • House

  • Kris Fair

    Democratic • House

  • Jessica Feldmark

    Democratic • House

  • Michele Guyton

    Democratic • House

  • Aaron M. Kaufman

    Democratic • House

  • Mary A. Lehman

    Democratic • House

  • Robbyn Lewis

    Democratic • House

  • Darrell Odom

    Democratic • House

  • Emily Shetty

    Democratic • House

  • Dana Stein

    Democratic • House

  • Jen Terrasa

    Democratic • House

  • Jennifer White Holland

    Democratic • House

  • Sarah Wolek

    Democratic • House

  • Chao Wu

    Democratic • House

  • Natalie Ziegler

    Democratic • House

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 241 • No: 65

Senate vote • 4/9/2026

Third Reading Passed

Yes: 38 • No: 3 • Other: 6

House vote • 4/9/2026

Third Reading Passed

Yes: 99 • No: 34 • Other: 8

House vote • 3/12/2026

Third Reading Passed

Yes: 104 • No: 28 • Other: 10

Actions Timeline

  1. Approved by the Governor - Chapter 211

    4/28/2026

  2. Passed Enrolled

    4/9/2026House

  3. Third Reading Passed (99-34)

    4/9/2026House

  4. House Concurs Senate Amendments

    4/9/2026House

  5. Third Reading Passed (38-3)

    4/9/2026Senate

  6. Second Reading Passed with Amendments

    4/8/2026Senate

  7. Favorable with Amendments {453922/1 Adopted

    4/8/2026Senate

  8. Favorable with Amendments Report by Education, Energy, and the Environment

    4/8/2026Senate

  9. Referred Education, Energy, and the Environment

    3/13/2026Senate

  10. Third Reading Passed (104-28)

    3/12/2026House

  11. Second Reading Passed with Amendments

    3/10/2026House

  12. Favorable with Amendments {453420/1 Adopted

    3/10/2026House

  13. Favorable with Amendments Report by Environment and Transportation

    3/9/2026House

  14. Hearing 2/18 at 1:00 p.m.

    2/2/2026House

  15. First Reading Environment and Transportation

    1/28/2026House

Bill Text

  • Enrolled

    4/9/2026

    PDF

  • Third Reading

    3/10/2026

    PDF

  • First Reading

    1/28/2026

    PDF

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