Maryland § 8-908

§ 8-908.

    (a)    There is an Access to Counsel in Evictions Task Force.

    (b)    (1)    The Task Force consists of up to 15 members appointed by the Secretary of Housing and Community Development and shall include:

            (i)    At least two representatives of the Maryland State Bar Association;

            (ii)    At least two representatives of tenant advocacy groups or designated organizations;

            (iii)    At least two representatives of the Judiciary;

            (iv)    At least two representatives of community groups;

            (v)    At least two representatives of landlords;

            (vi)    Representatives of MLSC; and

            (vii)    Tenants and other interested citizens.

        (2)    At least three members of the Task Force must be tenants whose income does not exceed 50% of the State median income adjusted for household size.

    (c)    The Secretary of Housing and Community Development shall designate the chair of the Task Force.

    (d)    The Department of Housing and Community Development shall provide staff for the Task Force.

    (e)    (1)    Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, a member of the Task Force:

        (i)    May not receive compensation as a member of the Task Force; but

        (ii)    Is entitled to reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations, as provided in the State budget.

        (2)    A member of the Task Force described under subsection (b)(2) of this section may receive reasonable compensation, including a stipend, as determined by the Secretary of Housing and Community Development.

    (f)    The Task Force shall:

        (1)    Evaluate the provision of services under this subtitle, including the performance of designated organizations and community groups;

        (2)    Study potential funding sources; and

        (3)    Make recommendations to improve the implementation of this subtitle, including necessary policy and statutory changes.

    (g)    On or before January 1, 2026, the Task Force shall report its findings and recommendations to the Governor and, in accordance with § 2–1257 of the State Government Article, the General Assembly.

    (h)    The Task Force may apply for grants from public and private entities to carry out the duties of the Task Force.