MarylandSB 02832026 Regular SessionSenateWALLET

Creation of a State Debt – Maryland Consolidated Capital Bond Loan of 2026, and the Maryland Consolidated Capital Bond Loans of 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025

Sponsored By: Sponsor information unavailable

Signed by Governor

Capital BudgetAppropriationsBudgets -see also- Capital BudgetsCapital BudgetsState Bonds

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

57 provisions identified: 50 benefits, 2 costs, 5 mixed.

More funding for Metro trains and buses

The law provides $167 million to the regional Metro system for bus and rail construction and major repairs. This supports safer, more reliable commutes for riders in the D.C. area.

Big boost for Maryland school buildings

The state provides $300 million to build and improve public school buildings, including E‑rate fiber and broadband. It adds $70 million for Nancy K. Kopp school priorities with no local match (Baltimore $16M, Prince George’s $19M, Montgomery $15M). It sets $80 million for districts with fast growth or 250+ relocatable classrooms; $4.5M goes to the top‑growth county and other funds follow enrollment and growth shares. Some nonpublic schools can get $5,000 to $100,000 for repairs and must spend within three years. The law also reserves $1 million for the Woodbourne School.

More money for college buildings

Beginning June 1, 2028, the law provides $68.515 million for a statewide community college construction program. It also funds named projects: $32.408 million for Montgomery College (Germantown Student Services), $8.223 million for Chesapeake College (new technical building), $2.571 million for CCBC Essex (electrical systems), $1.926 million for CCBC Catonsville, and $3.984 million for Baltimore City Community College (Learning Commons). Allegany College receives $61,000 for ADA access. Stevenson University can get up to $2.9 million, but must provide an equal match; prior spending may count, and the authorization runs at least through June 1, 2028.

State borrowing for 2027–2029 projects

The law lets Maryland issue general obligation bonds to fund capital projects. It lists several amounts for 2027, from about $409 million to $511 million, and $36.349 million for 2029. The Comptroller can advance cash to project accounts before a bond sale. The next bond sale must repay any advance.

State borrowing cap and faster deadlines

The law caps new state borrowing at $1.75 billion. Spending authority ends one year after a project is finished or abandoned, and seven years after the act unless an allowed exception applies. Within a year of termination, unspent bond proceeds must reduce debt, support the Construction Contingency Fund, or credit the Annuity Bond Fund; unissued bonds are canceled. Some changes apply only going forward while others apply to older authorizations, as the law specifies.

State bonds fund projects, property tax pays

The law lets Maryland issue state bonds to fund projects across the state. It authorizes about $1.825 billion for the 2026 loan and sets totals for past loans, including $1.173 billion (2014), $1.081 billion (2019), $1.078 billion (2020), and $1.029 billion (2021). It also preauthorizes about $215–$230 million for 2028 projects. An annual tax on all assessable property must cover bond principal and interest, and bonds must be paid within 15 years. The Board of Public Works issues and sells the bonds.

More help to buy and rent homes

The law funds home buying, repairs, and rentals. It adds $20 million for below‑market mortgages with minimum down payments for low‑ and moderate‑income buyers. It invests $10 million to close appraisal gaps on distressed homes. It provides $65 million for low‑ and moderate‑income rental housing, $8 million for partnership rental projects, and $3 million for shelters. It also sets aside $5 million for a Housing Innovation Fund.

Grants for small business upgrades

Small businesses in revitalization areas can get $10 million in grants and loans for improvements. The state provides $5 million for business facade upgrades; $50,000 is set aside for Montgomery County’s program. Stone View Farm in Harford County receives a one‑time $96,000 grant for a greenhouse.

Funding to protect historic places

The law gives $5 million for the African American Heritage Preservation Grant Program and adds targeted 2027 funds, including $250,000 for Dowden Chapel. About $1 million supports statewide historic preservation and museums, with $35,000 set aside for Salem United Methodist Church. Historic St. Mary’s City gets $925,000 for site work and $420,000 for visitor center design. Salem United Methodist Church also gets a separate $115,000 capital grant.

Local projects and redevelopment funded

The state funds many named local projects. Examples include $5 million for Ripken Stadium, $2.5 million for Security Square Mall upgrades, and $3 million and $4 million for a virtual production studio in Prince George’s County. It provides $8.5 million and $10 million for Suitland mixed‑use space, $1 million for Westminster fiber, and $1 million and $2 million to realign Kloman Street in Baltimore City. It also funds the St. Michaels Community Center ($800,000), Roca Baltimore facility repairs ($100,000 and $200,000), and a new building for MEOR Maryland ($500,000). The law also lists many other named grants across the state for similar planning and capital work.

More money for parks and waterways

The law funds local parks, land conservation, boating, and habitat work. It provides $49.775 million for Program Open Space and $13.4 million for Rural Legacy. It adds $13.068 million for waterway improvements and $5 million for community parks and playgrounds. It also funds oyster restoration and capital projects on State natural resources land, such as an inclusive playground at Janes Island State Park.

New court buildings and upgrades

The law provides $26.346 million to complete a new Supreme Court of Maryland building in Annapolis. Work may continue before all funds are appropriated. It also provides $739,000 to finish renovations and an addition at the Washington County District Court.

Baltimore waterfront promenade construction funds

The state provides $34.4 million for the Promenade project in Baltimore City. The grant pays for planning, construction, and site work. This funding is effective June 1, 2026.

New Supreme Court and state offices

The law funds work on the new Supreme Court of Maryland building in Annapolis with $20.388 million now and $52.692 million effective June 1, 2027. It also funds design work for the Treasury Building ($2.06 million), the Wineland Building ($281,000), and a Revenue Administration Center suite ($175,000). These projects may continue before all funds are fully appropriated.

Stronger statewide emergency radio system

The law provides $16.268 million to keep building and equipping the Maryland FiRST public safety radio network. This improves emergency radio coverage and reliability for responders across the state.

Upgrades to sewers and flood protections

The law provides $50 million to upgrade wastewater plants, sewer lines, and stormwater systems. It also gives $4.382 million for flood‑risk projects like property buyouts, warning systems, and flood‑control work. These projects reduce pollution and lower the risk of costly flood damage.

Health and special‑needs facilities funded

The state funds care and special‑needs facilities. It supports The Benedictine School residential facilities ($1 million) and expands pediatric psychiatric care at Johns Hopkins ($300,000). Kennedy Krieger receives $500,000 and $750,000 for LEAP facilities and $2.5 million and $5 million for an Eastern Shore school program. It funds a therapeutic playground in Baltimore City ($250,000) and modernizes the Chimes School ($750,000). It upgrades the Friends House retirement community ($300,000 and $350,000) and renovates MedStar’s Community Learning Center ($250,000 and $375,000). These projects expand access to local care and services.

Hospital and community health buildings

The law funds hospital and community health buildings. Suburban Hospital gets grants of $1 million, $1.25 million, and $1.5 million to expand its emergency department. The state grants $10 million for community mental health, addiction, and disability facilities and $3.5 million for health center buildings. Clifton T. Perkins Hospital gets $4.766 million to renovate and add space. Voices of Hope receives $25,000 for a recovery facility, and $5 million expands the Greenebaum Cancer Center.

Neighborhood revitalization and demolition funds

The state invests in neighborhood renewal and site cleanup. $20 million supports the Baltimore Regional Neighborhood Initiative, with some amounts reserved for named projects. $8 million funds Community Legacy grants, and $10 million supports anchor‑institution community projects. $60 million supports demolition, site work, and land assembly in Sustainable Communities.

White Oak area infrastructure funding

The law provides $15 million to Montgomery County for infrastructure in White Oak. The money can buy land and pay for design, construction, expansion, repairs, site work, and equipment. The funding supports roads and utilities that serve homes and businesses.

College and deaf school construction

Starting June 1, 2028, $23.387 million builds Prince George’s Community College’s Charlene Mickens Dukes Student Center. Also on June 1, 2028, $13.039 million upgrades Morgan State’s electrical systems; work can proceed before all funds are in place. Another $55.551 million finishes Morgan State’s New Science Center Phase II. Beginning June 1, 2029, $8.65 million completes new residences and related facilities at the Maryland School for the Deaf.

More funds for community colleges

The state provides about $52.36 million to buy land and build or renovate community college buildings. It also provides $2.618 million for repairs and deferred maintenance. Projects follow Education Article rules, and work can start before all funds are in place. These upgrades expand space, safety, and training options for students.

More grants for public libraries

The law provides $12.775 million to buy land, build, and equip public libraries statewide. Funds are managed under State education rules. Any reallocation must be reported to the General Assembly.

New buildings at University of Maryland

The law funds major projects at University of Maryland campuses. It completes a new School of Social Work building in Baltimore and a new engineering building (Zupnik Hall) in College Park. It continues the Health and Human Sciences Complex in College Park and upgrades UMB’s central electric system. It also finishes a Dental Ambulatory Surgery Center in Baltimore.

New housing at School for the Deaf

Starting June 1, 2028, the law provides $40.206 million to keep building student residences and support buildings at the Maryland School for the Deaf in Frederick County. Work may continue before all funds are fully appropriated. The new spaces help students and families served by the school.

Upgrades at Maryland public colleges

The state funds major campus projects. It repairs the Xfinity Center roof at College Park ($5 million or $10 million) and builds graduate student housing ($3 million or $5 million). It continues Bowie State’s new library design ($4.802 million), upgrades Towson’s central plant ($10.6 million), and builds a new electrical substation at Morgan State ($40.486 million). It also invests $10 million in the Capital of Quantum Initiative. These projects improve college facilities, safety, and research.

Yearly property tax to pay bonds

Beginning June 1, 2029, the state sets a yearly property tax to pay state bond principal and interest. The tax applies to all taxable property and lasts until the bonds are paid. The law also requires the principal to be paid off within 15 years of each bond issue.

Fixing state buildings and access ramps

The state puts $59.666 million into the Facilities Renewal Fund to repair and rehab state buildings. It provides $1.124 million to upgrade accessibility for people with disabilities. Another $5 million goes to the Construction Contingency Fund, which may exceed its usual FY2027 cap to cover surprise project costs.

Loans and grants for clean water

The state adds $14.896 million to the Drinking Water Loan Fund and $19.591 million to the Water Quality Loan Fund. It grants $3 million to help local governments cover their share of wastewater projects and $2.419 million for water‑supply upgrades. It also provides $11.115 million for water and sewer work at state institutions. Some projects may start before all funds are appropriated, and spending over the FY2027 plan needs General Assembly notice.

Grants to help farms cut runoff

The law provides $8 million for the Maryland Agricultural Cost-Share Program. It helps farms pay for conservation work that cuts soil and nutrient runoff. Farmers can apply to get part of project costs covered.

Arts and museums get capital help

The law funds arts and cultural sites. It gives $3 million for the state Arts Capital Grants, with $100,000 reserved for Clifton House. It funds the B&O Railroad Museum ($3 million), Baltimore Streetcar Museum ($250,000), and the SS John Brown Liberty Ship ($250,000). It upgrades Port Discovery Children’s Museum ($150,000, $1.15 million, $1.25 million), Olney Theatre ($500,000), and the Maryland Science Center ($200,000). It also funds memorial projects in Anne Arundel and Baltimore City ($250,000 each).

Baltimore market and revitalization projects

The state invests in Baltimore community spaces. Cross Street Market gets $500,000 for infrastructure work. The Carpenters Baltimore Revitalization Initiative receives $100,000 and $200,000 for planning, construction, and equipment. These are one-time capital grants to support local commerce and jobs.

Design to remove old health building

The law provides $103,000 to continue design for demolishing the RICA Baltimore Old Dormitory Building. This prepares the site for future improvements.

Funds for local public safety buildings

Maryland funds two public safety projects. Oakland Volunteer Fire Department gets $50,000 for building upgrades. Queen Anne’s County gets $200,000 to design a new detention center, but the county must provide an equal local match. The state money covers design and capital work only.

Grants for local projects statewide

The law provides $37.5 million for local projects run by governments and nonprofits across Maryland. This one-time fund pays for planning, construction, and equipment for approved projects.

Investments in farms and ag centers

The law supports farm and agriculture facilities. Harris Farm in Frederick County receives two grants of $600,000 and $900,000 for infrastructure work. Howard County gets $125,000 for an Agriculture Cultural Center at West Friendship Park. SpringForward Farms in Laurel gets $100,000 for site and building work. These are one-time capital grants for planning, construction, and equipment.

More money for museums and arts spaces

Maryland funds local museums and arts centers. Examples include $250,000 for HVAC and facility work at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, $100,000 for the Richardson Maritime Museum, $75,000 for Heritage Frederick, $100,000 for Adventure Theatre, $100,000 for the Maryland Center for the Visual and Performing Arts, $50,000 for the Aberdeen Railroad Heritage Center, and $100,000 for the Brumbaugh House and Museum. These one-time grants pay for planning, repairs, and equipment.

Reserved parking for legislative staff

Parking operators near the State complex must reserve at least 250 spaces year‑round for General Assembly employees. From January 1 to May 1, those spaces stay restricted for staff use at all times. The state may not cut staff parking below April 11, 2005 levels without written approval from legislative leaders.

Stronger checks before capital money flows

Agencies must show the Board of Public Works that a project can be finished with the money on hand. They must try to get federal funds first and explain their efforts before using State money. Agencies must submit required programs and plans to the budget office before spending. The law defines these non‑State grants and makes DGS report grants with no activity after three years.

Support for animal and wildlife facilities

Maryland funds local animal care and rescue sites. Examples include $125,000 for the Catoctin Wildlife Preserve, $200,000 for a Humane Society training facility in Harford County, and $200,000 for the Gentle Giants Center for Connection. These are one-time capital grants for building, repairs, and equipment.

Support for Baltimore's Ambassador Theater

The law provides $250,000 in 2028 and $250,000 in 2029 to the Ambassador Center for Arts and Culture. The money can pay for buying, planning, renovating, and equipping the Ambassador Theater. The grants support arts access in Baltimore City.

Upgrades to local parks and rec centers

The state funds park and recreation improvements. Examples include $200,000 for Wilmer’s Park, $100,000 for Font Hill Wetland Park paving and a bridge, $250,000 for Falls Road Local Park with ADA upgrades, $200,000 for the Havre de Grace STAR Center, and $150,000 for a permanent stage roof at the Great Frederick Fair. These are one-time capital grants for design, construction, and equipment.

Upgrades to prisons and State Police

The law funds security upgrades at state prisons and a replacement State Police barrack. It pays $2.133 million to replace fencing and security at Roxbury Correctional Institution and $1.155 million to design security upgrades at MCI–Hagerstown. It provides $1.511 million to keep Roxbury construction going before all funds are in place. It also gives $884,000 to replace Barrack L and its garage in Forestville.

Upgrades to state military sites

The law finishes the Frederick Readiness Center renovation and expansion. It also funds design for a new vehicle maintenance shop in Hagerstown. These projects support state military operations and local jobs.

Upgrades to state public safety buildings

The state funds design of a new Cheltenham Youth Treatment Center ($4.292 million). It renovates Maryland State Police facilities: Barrack A in Waterloo ($763,000) and Barrack J in Annapolis ($3.579 million). It also funds buildings and grounds for the Sandy Spring Volunteer Fire Department ($550,000 and $750,000). These projects support youth services and public safety operations.

Upgrades to veterans and community lodges

The state funds repairs and equipment for local lodges. Awards include $45,000 to WAC Hughes Elks Lodge No. 1053, $65,000 to Mountain City Lodge No. 382, $50,000 to American Legion Post No. 71 for a roof, and $190,000 to VFW Post No. 7472. These are one-time capital grants for planning, construction, and site work.

Disability service center building upgrades

The law provides $200,000 and $400,000 to The League for People with Disabilities in Baltimore City. The funds replace and modernize mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. The upgrades help keep services running safely.

Grants to upgrade local fire stations

The law funds local fire and rescue upgrades: $150,000 for Hampstead’s engine tanker, $250,000 for Manchester station renovations, and $100,000 for Water Witch safety systems. It also gives Salisbury $75,000 to improve the fire training building. These projects improve response and safety.

Support for food banks and shelters

The state gives $200,000 to the Anne Arundel County Food Bank for a new facility. It also provides $100,000 to improve the Martin’s House & Barn shelter and food pantry in Caroline County. These projects strengthen local help for families in need.

Upgrades for libraries and community spaces

The law funds library improvements in Baltimore City ($600,000, $2.1 million, and $1.935 million to Enoch Pratt) and $225,000 for Anne Arundel libraries. It adds $50,000 for a community pottery studio in Montgomery County and $1.1 million for park upgrades in Williamsport. These grants improve public learning and gathering spaces.

Upgrades to health and community centers

The state funds health and community service sites. Examples include $150,000 for a men’s recovery campus in Baltimore City, $175,000 for the Haneefiya Adult Medical Day Care Center, and $240,000 for the Food 4 Maryland commercial kitchen. The Korean Community Service Center gets $50,000 for office renovations, and may be reimbursed for costs on or after June 1, 2017. Residences at Vantage Point receives $100,000 for facility upgrades, and Bethesda Transformation Center gets $73,000 for renovation work. These are one-time capital grants for planning, construction, and equipment.

Grants for youth and school facilities

The law funds several education and youth projects. Examples include $100,000 for the Chesapeake Bay Outward Bound School (safety and facility upgrades), $165,000 to help finish the Frederick Youth Center, $100,000 for the Howard County Chinese School expansion, $100,000 for Radcliffe Creek School improvements, and $50,000 for a hydroponic farm tied to Springbrook High School. These one-time grants pay for planning, construction, and equipment.

Upgrades for local public and private schools

The law gives $1.75 million to upgrade Bluebird charter school facilities in Baltimore City. It provides $400,000 for building and field improvements at the Connelly School of the Holy Child in Montgomery County. Carroll County Public Schools receive $35,000 for a digital sign at Westminster Elementary.

Upgrades for youth education centers

The state funds school and youth facilities. Don Bosco Cristo Rey High School receives $1 million to build an athletics center and improve its campus in Montgomery County. NorthBay Education receives $200,000 for facility improvements in Cecil County. These projects improve learning spaces and programs for students.

Funding for BioHub lab equipment

The state provides $250,000 for BioHub Maryland in Montgomery County. The grant pays for lab equipment and facility upgrades. This is a one-time capital investment to support research and industry activity.

Mid Shore jail grant is removed

The state removes the $500,000 grant for the Mid Shore Regional Detention Center. The project gets no state capital funds in this act. This change takes effect June 1, 2026.

Flexibility and guardrails for capital funds

With budget approval, extra design funds can move to construction, and extra construction funds can buy equipment. Excess appropriations may go to the Construction Contingency Fund, even above 1.25% of the debt limit in FY2027. The law clarifies that capital spending includes land, buildings, equipment, and new construction. It repeals certain 2025 chapter sections. No loan or match funds may support religious activities, and recipients must prove compliance on request.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsors

There is no primary sponsor on record.

Cosponsors

There are no cosponsors for this bill.

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 696 • No: 459

Senate vote 4/2/2026

Third Reading Passed

Yes: 43 • No: 0 • Other: 2

House vote 4/1/2026

Third Reading Passed with Amendments

Yes: 123 • No: 13 • Other: 5

House vote 4/1/2026

Floor Amendment {913223/1 (Delegate Arikan) Rejected

Yes: 20 • No: 99 • Other: 22

House vote 4/1/2026

Third Reading Passed with Amendments

Yes: 120 • No: 10 • Other: 11

House vote 4/1/2026

Floor Amendment {983722/1 (Delegate Chisholm) Rejected

Yes: 34 • No: 102 • Other: 5

House vote 4/1/2026

Floor Amendment {263428/1 (Delegate Chisholm) Rejected

Yes: 21 • No: 102 • Other: 18

House vote 4/1/2026

Floor Amendment {593222/1 (Delegate Fisher) Rejected

Yes: 23 • No: 97 • Other: 21

House vote 3/31/2026

Committee Amendment (#69) Adopted

Yes: 97 • No: 35 • Other: 9

Senate vote 3/25/2026

Third Reading Passed

Yes: 44 • No: 0 • Other: 2

Senate vote 3/24/2026

Committee Amendment (#46) Adopted

Yes: 43 • No: 0

Senate vote 3/24/2026

Committee Amendment (#35) Adopted

Yes: 43 • No: 0 • Other: 1

Senate vote 3/24/2026

Committee Amendment (#241) Adopted

Yes: 43 • No: 0

Senate vote 3/24/2026

Committee Amendment (#30) Adopted

Yes: 42 • No: 1 • Other: 3

Actions Timeline

  1. Approved by the Governor - Chapter 5

    4/8/2026
  2. Passed Enrolled

    4/2/2026Senate
  3. Third Reading Passed (43-0)

    4/2/2026Senate
  4. Senate Concurs House Amendments

    4/2/2026Senate
  5. Third Reading Passed with Amendments (120-10)

    4/1/2026House
  6. Floor Amendment {133123/1 (Delegate Ruff) Adopted

    4/1/2026House
  7. Floor Amendment {923129/1 (Delegate Ruff) Withdrawn

    4/1/2026House
  8. Motion Reconsider Floor Amendment {923129/1 (Delegate Ruff) Adopted

    4/1/2026House
  9. Motion Special Order until Next Session (Delegate Barnes) Adopted

    4/1/2026House
  10. Motion Reconsider Third Reading (Delegate Barnes) Adopted

    4/1/2026House
  11. Third Reading Passed with Amendments (123-13)

    4/1/2026House
  12. Motion Special Order until 04/02 (Delegate Arikan) Rejected

    4/1/2026House
  13. Floor Amendment {923129/1 (Delegate Ruff) Adopted

    4/1/2026House
  14. Floor Amendment {913223/1 (Delegate Arikan) Rejected (20-99)

    4/1/2026House
  15. Floor Amendment {593222/1 (Delegate Fisher) Rejected (23-97)

    4/1/2026House
  16. Floor Amendment {263428/1 (Delegate Chisholm) Rejected (21-102)

    4/1/2026House
  17. Floor Amendment {983722/1 (Delegate Chisholm) Rejected (34-102)

    4/1/2026House
  18. Second Reading Passed with Amendments

    3/31/2026House
  19. Favorable with Amendments Adopted

    3/31/2026House
  20. Committee Amendment (#190-198) Adopted

    3/31/2026House
  21. Committee Amendment (#113-189) Adopted

    3/31/2026House
  22. Committee Amendment (#112) Adopted

    3/31/2026House
  23. Committee Amendment (#70-111) Adopted

    3/31/2026House
  24. Committee Amendment (#69) Adopted (97-35)

    3/31/2026House
  25. Committee Amendment (#22-68) Adopted

    3/31/2026House

Bill Text

  • Enacted

    4/8/2026

  • Enrolled

    4/2/2026

  • Third Reading

    3/24/2026

  • First Reading

    1/21/2026

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