MarylandSB 02802026 Regular SessionSenate

Natural Resources - State Parks - Terminology

Sponsored By: Malcolm Augustine (Democratic)

Signed by Governor

Natural Resources - GenerallyBaltimore CityCecil CountyCharles CountyClassifications and DesignationsForests and Parks -see also- MdNatlCapPkPlnCm; Plants; etc.Historical Matters -see also- Archives; Monumts; Museum; etcMontgomery CountyNatural Resources -see also- Coal; For&Pks; Rivers; etc.Natural Resources, Department ofPrince George's CountyRacial Matters -see also- Ethnic Affairs; Minorities

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Analyzed Economic Effects

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

Freedman's State Park in Montgomery County

The law creates Freedman's State Park as a partnership park. It preserves and explains Black American life before and after slavery. The park can include State sites the Department selects and partner sites in or near Brookeville, Olney, Sandy Spring, Zion, and Laytonsville. The rule starts October 1, 2026.

Historical parks renamed as state parks

The law renames "State historical parks" as "State parks" in Maryland law. It applies to parks that share African American, Asian, Indigenous or Native American, and Hispanic or Latino histories. The Department uses the new term in decisions and in its long‑range plan. The change starts October 1, 2026.

Port Deposit partnership state park created

The law creates Port Deposit State Park as a partnership park. The park must use 120 to 150 acres of the Bainbridge Naval Training Center site. It may include the Tome School, the Snow Hill archaeological site, and nearby woods. A stakeholder committee advises on the park. The rule starts October 1, 2026.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Malcolm Augustine
Democratic • Senate

Cosponsors

Craig J. Zucker
Democratic • Senate

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 179 • No: 0

House vote • 4/8/2026

Third Reading Passed

Yes: 134 • No: 0 • Other: 4

Senate vote • 2/24/2026