Title 08
DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES

Subtitle 02 FISHERIES SERVICE

Notice of Proposed Action

[26-067-P]

The Secretary of Natural Resources proposes to amend:

(1) Regulation .01 under COMAR 08.02.03 Blue Crabs;

(2) Regulations .01, .02, .03, .08, .10, and .12 under COMAR 08.02.04 Oysters;

(3) Regulation .19 under COMAR 08.02.05 Fish;

(4) Regulations .02 and .03 under COMAR 08.02.07 Hard-Shell Clams; and

(5) Regulations .02 and .03 under COMAR 08.02.25 Gear.

Statement of Purpose

The purpose of this action is to clarify that an individual may attempt to catch fish only when using legal fishing gear. The Department recently discovered that the regulations for using gear are not completely clear. Certain regulations specify which gear can be used to catch fish, but the regulations should also include that an individual may only use that gear even when attempting to catch fish. The proposed action clarifies gear rules by adding the phrase attempt to catch to the appropriate sections of regulation.

Estimate of Economic Impact

The proposed action has no economic impact.

Economic Impact on Small Businesses

The proposed action has minimal or no economic impact on small businesses.

Impact on Individuals with Disabilities

The proposed action has no impact on individuals with disabilities.

Opportunity for Public Comment

Comments may be sent to Gear Regulations, Regulatory Staff, Maryland Department of Natural Resources Fishing and Boating Services, 580 Taylor Avenue, Annapolis, MD 21401, or call 410-206-8300, or email to [email protected] or complete the comment form at https://dnr.maryland.gov/fisheries/pages/regulations/changes.aspx#house. Comments will be accepted through July 27, 2026. A public hearing has not been scheduled.

08.02.03 Blue Crabs

Authority: Natural Resources Article, 4-215, 4-221, and 4-803, Annotated Code of Maryland

.01 Crabbing Gear.

A. Lawful Gear.

(1) A person may catch or attempt to catch crabs in the tidal waters of Maryland only with the gear authorized in this chapter.

(2) Diving Apparatus. A person may not possess, [or] catch, or attempt to catch crabs in the tidal waters of Maryland using diving apparatus by itself, or in conjunction with any of the other methods authorized in this chapter.

(3) Gear designated to catch or attempt to catch crabs and defined in this chapter, except for a seine, is not considered a net under the definition listed in COMAR 08.02.05.02.

B. Recreational Gear Definitions.

(1) The gear defined in this section may be used to catch or attempt to catch crabs for recreational purposes.

(2) (9) (text unchanged)

C. (text unchanged)

08.02.04 Oysters

Authority: Natural Resources Article, 4-2A-03, 4-215, and 4-221, Annotated Code of Maryland

.01 Patent Tong Areas.

A. A person may not use patent tongs to catch or attempt to catch oysters in any of the waters listed in this section.

(1) (5) (text unchanged)

B. Exceptions. A person may catch or attempt to catch oysters by patent tong in the areas listed in this section.

(1) (6) (text unchanged)

.02 Recreational Oyster Fishery.

A. C. (text unchanged)

D. Lawful Methods. A person may catch or attempt to catch oysters for recreational purposes only by hand, rake, shaft tong, or diving with or without scuba equipment.

E. (text unchanged)

.03 Catching Oysters for Commercial Purposes.

A. (text unchanged)

B. Lawful Methods. A person may catch or attempt to catch oysters for commercial purposes only by shaft tong, patent tong, diving apparatus, dredge boat, dredge boat propelled by means of an auxiliary yawl boat, or power dredge.

C. Times for Catching.

(1) During an open season in November and December, a person may catch or attempt to catch oysters for commercial purposes only from:

(a) (b) (text unchanged)

(2) Except as described in C(1) of this regulation, during an open season a person may catch or attempt to catch oysters for commercial purposes only from:

(a) (b) (text unchanged)

(3) ( text unchanged)

D. G. (text unchanged)

.08 Dredge Boat Areas.

A. Except as listed in B of this regulation a person may catch or attempt to catch oysters by a dredge boat, as defined in Natural Resources Article, 4-1001(g), Annotated Code of Maryland, only in the following waters:

(1) (6) (text unchanged)

B. Exceptions. A person may not catch or attempt to catch oysters by dredge boat in the areas listed in this section.

(1) (6) (text unchanged)

.10 Dredging with an Auxiliary Yawl Boat.

A. A dredge boat may be propelled by means of an auxiliary yawl boat carried on the dredge boat to catch or attempt to catch oysters in areas where dredge boats are permitted, except in:

(1) (3) (text unchanged)

B. A dredge boat may be propelled in accordance with A of this regulation for not more than 2 of the days of the week, specified by public notice, that a person may catch or attempt to catch oysters for commercial purposes during the season for dredging oysters.

C. (text unchanged)

.12 Power Dredging.

A. B. (text unchanged)

C. Power Dredge Study Areas. An individual may catch or attempt to catch oysters only by power dredge in the areas listed in C(1) (3) of this regulation.

(1) (3) (text unchanged)

D. E. (text unchanged)

08.02.05 Fish

Authority: Natural Resources Article, 4-215 and 4-221, Annotated Code of Maryland

.19 Black Bass Largemouth Bass and Smallmouth Bass.

A. B. (text unchanged)

C. Gear Restrictions.

(1) An individual may not catch or attempt to catch black bass in any manner in the tidal waters of the State except with rod or hook and line using natural or artificial baits.

(2) (text unchanged)

D. (text unchanged)

08.02.07 Hard-Shell Clams

Authority: Natural Resources Article, 4-215, 4-1021, and 4-1023, Annotated Code of Maryland

.02 Use of Hard-Shell Clam Dredges in Tangier Sound and Pocomoke Sound.

A. Size of Dredge. A person may not catch or attempt to catch hard-shell clams in the waters of Tangier Sound and Pocomoke Sound with a hydraulic dredge or mechanical dredge more than 36 inches in width.

B. Areas Where Hard-Shell Clams May Be Taken by Dredge. Subject to Regulation .05 of this chapter and except as provided in C of this regulation, an individual licensed to catch hard-shell clams may catch or attempt to catch hard-shell clams with a dredge only in the waters of:

(1) (2) (text unchanged)

C. (text unchanged)

.03 Commercial Fishery.

A. An individual may not catch or attempt to catch hard-shell clams for commercial purposes on Sunday.

B. D. (text unchanged)

08.02.25 Gear

Authority: Natural Resources Article, 4-221, Annotated Code of Maryland

.02 Recreational Gear Nontidal Waters.

A. Recreational Gear.

(1) An individual may only use the gear specified in this regulation to catch or attempt to catch fish for recreational purposes from nontidal waters.

(2) (text unchanged)

B. (text unchanged)

C. Active Line Fishing Gear.

(1) Individuals catching or attempting to catch fish in nontidal waters may only use the following active line fishing gear:

(a) (c) (text unchanged)

(2) (6) (text unchanged)

D. Nets.

(1) Individuals catching or attempting to catch fish in nontidal waters may only use the following nets:

(a) (c) (text unchanged)

(2) (7) (text unchanged)

E. Projectile Gear.

(1) Individuals catching or attempting to catch fish in nontidal waters may only use the following projectile gear:

(a) (d) (text unchanged)

(2) (7) (text unchanged)

F. Hand Gear. Individuals catching or attempting to catch fish in nontidal waters may only use the following hand gear:

(1) (2) (text unchanged)

.03 Recreational Gear Tidal Waters.

A. Recreational Gear.

(1) (text unchanged)

(2) An individual may only use the gear specified in this regulation to catch or attempt to catch fish for recreational purposes from tidal waters.

(3) (text unchanged)

B. D. (text unchanged)

E. Active Line Fishing Gear.

(1) Individuals catching or attempting to catch fish in tidal waters may only use the following active line fishing gear:

(a) (c) (text unchanged)

(2) (5) (text unchanged)

F. Nonactive Line Fishing Gear.

(1) The only nonactive line fishing gear that an individual may use to catch or attempt to catch fish in tidal waters is a jug.

(2) (text unchanged)

(3) Jugs:

(a) (e) (text unchanged)

(f) May be used to take or attempt to take any fish except for the following species:

(i) (v) (text unchanged)

G. Nets.

(1) Individuals catching or attempting to catch fish in tidal waters may only use the following nets:

(a) (d) (text unchanged)

(2) (5) (text unchanged)

H. Projectile Gear.

(1) Individuals catching or attempting to catch fish in tidal waters may only use the following projectile gear:

(a) (d) (text unchanged)

(2) (3) (text unchanged)

(4) An individual may use projectile gear to take or attempt to take any fish except for the following species:

(a) (l) (text unchanged)

(5) (text unchanged)

I. Hand Gear. Individuals catching or attempting to catch fish in tidal waters may only use the following hand gear:

(1) (2) (text unchanged)

JOSH KURTZ
Secretary of Natural Resources

08.02.08 Shellfish General

Authority: Natural Resources Article, 4-206, 4-215, 4-1007, 4-1020, 4-1028, 4-1033, and 4-1035, Annotated Code of Maryland

Notice of Proposed Action

[26-070-P]

The Secretary of Natural Resources proposes to amend Regulation .09 under COMAR 08.02.08 Shellfish General.

Statement of Purpose

The purpose of this action is to require harvesters who sell their own catch, who are also licensed by the Maryland Department of Health (MDH), to declare their intent to deal in shellfish intended for human consumption.

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) recently created a requirement for shellfish dealers to declare their intention to deal in shellfish if they plan to purchase soft-shell clams of the species Mya arenaria, hard-shell clams, and oysters. Part of that declaration process requires the dealer to provide the Department with the dealer s certification number from MDH. The purpose of this requirement is to better align the ability of MDNR and MDH to coordinate and track the purchase and transport of shellfish intended for human consumption, thereby ensuring public health. However, some harvesters who are both licensed by MDNR and certified by MDH as dealers sell their own catch directly to the public.

The most important transaction regarding shellfish for MDNR to be aware of is the initial transaction. This may be between the harvester and the dealer, or between the harvester and the public. Covering the initial transaction ensures that shellfish intended for human consumption comes from licensed harvesters, is tagged properly, and has complied with time and temperature requirements. Additionally, it ensures that buy tickets are properly filled out to ensure that the required taxes are paid for the replenishment of the State s shellfish resources, and harvest information is recorded to track the origin of the shellfish. Including MDNR-licensed, MDH-certified harvesters who sell their own catch to the public will ensure the public health and resource management benefits necessary for the management of these fisheries.

Estimate of Economic Impact

I. Summary of Economic Impact. The proposed action may have a positive impact both on Department revenues and on the wild oyster fishery due to enhancing the Department s ability to properly collect the taxes due. Those taxes are used exclusively for oyster repletion activities, which benefit the wild oyster fishery by enhancing populations of wild oysters in areas that are available to harvest.

II. Types of Economic Impact.

Impacted Entity	Revenue (R+/R-) Expenditure (E+/E-)	Magnitude
A. On issuing agency:
Maryland Department of Natural Resources	(R+)	Indeterminable
B. On other State agencies:	NONE
C. On local governments:	NONE
	Benefit (+) Cost (-)	Magnitude
D. On regulated industries or trade groups:
(1) Shellfish Dealers	(-)	Indeterminable
(2) Shellfish Harvesters	(+)	Indeterminable
E. On other industries or trade groups:	NONE
F. Direct and indirect effects on public:	NONE

III. Assumptions. (Identified by Impact Letter and Number from Section II.)

A. This action will potentially result in the Department realizing increased revenues from required oyster taxes. The Department is not currently able to ascertain which of the over 2,000 licensed dealers will be dealing in shellfish that they harvested during a license year. By requiring harvesters dealing in their own catch to declare prior to dealing in shellfish they harvested, the Department will know which harvesters dealing in their own catch owe severance and export taxes. It is believed that the number of harvesters dealing in their own catch actually dealing in shellfish they have harvested is less than 10% of the total number of dealers.

D(1). It is possible that some number of individuals who are both licensed as oyster or clam harvesters and as seafood dealers who have been dealing in oysters or clams they harvested themselves have not been reporting that activity or paying the required severance and export taxes. For those harvesters dealing in their own catch who have been out of compliance, this action will make it easier for the Department to ascertain when they are failing to pay those taxes. Ultimately, this may result in a negative economic impact to those harvesters dealing in their own catch who will now be brought into full compliance with the tax requirement. It is not known how many harvesters dealing in their own catch this may affect or how many bushels of oysters or clams for which taxes were not being paid.

D(2). Assuming that the Department is able to collect additional taxes that have not been paid in years past due to the increased ability to know which harvesters dealing in their own catch owe taxes, shellfish harvesters will experience an indeterminable positive impact. Taxes collected from dealers are used exclusively for shellfish repletion activities. This means that more shellfish will exist for harvesters to be able to harvest and sell.

Economic Impact on Small Businesses

The proposed action has a meaningful economic impact on small businesses. An analysis of this economic impact follows:

This action may have a negative impact on harvesters dealing in their own catch who have previously avoided paying taxes while having positive impacts on all small businesses that participate in the commercial harvest of oysters. See sections D and E for additional detail.

Impact on Individuals with Disabilities

The proposed action has no impact on individuals with disabilities.

Opportunity for Public Comment

Comments may be sent to Shellfish Dealer Declaration Clarification Regulations, Regulatory Staff, Maryland Department of Natural Resources Fishing and Boating Services, 580 Taylor Avenue, E-4, Annapolis MD 21401, or call 410-260-8300, or email to [email protected] or complete the comment form at https://dnr.maryland.gov/fisheries/pages/regulations/changes.aspx#shelldeal. Comments will be accepted through July 27, 2026. A public hearing has not been scheduled.

.09 Seafood Dealers.

A. C. (text unchanged)

D. Declaration.

(1) (text unchanged)

(2) Prior to selling their own catch of soft-shell clams of the species Mya arenaria, hard-shell clams, or oysters, a harvester licensed in accordance with Natural Resources Article, 4-701, Annotated Code of Maryland and licensed and certified to sell shellfish by the Maryland Department of Health in accordance with COMAR 10.15.04 and 10.15.07, shall on a form provided by the Department:

(a) Declare their intent to deal in shellfish; and

(b) Provide their certification number issued by the Maryland Department of Health.

[(2)](3) (text unchanged)

JOSH KURTZ

Secretary of Natural Resources

Title 09
MARYLAND DEPARTMENT OF LABOR

Subtitle 12 DIVISION OF LABOR AND INDUSTRY

Notice of Proposed Action

[26-074-P-I]

The Secretary of Labor proposes to:

(1) Amend Regulations .02, .02-1, and .03 under COMAR 09.12.50 Model Performance Code;

(2) Amend Regulations .03 and .04 under COMAR 09.12.51 Maryland Building Performance Standards; and

(3) Amend Regulations .02 .04 and .07 .12 and repeal existing Regulations .17 and .18 under COMAR 09.12.52 Industrialized Buildings and Manufactured Homes.

Statement of Purpose

The purpose of this action is to update various existing incorporated by reference standards in the Model Performance Code and the Maryland Building Performance Standards to the first edition of the:

(1) 2024 International Building Code;

(2) 2024 International Residential Code for One- and Two-Family Dwellings;

(3) 2024 International Energy Conservation Code;

(4) 2024 2024 International Plumbing Code;

(5) 2024 International Mechanical Code; and

(6) National Electric Code, 2023 Edition (NFPA 70).

This action amends the Maryland Performance Code (MPC) requirements for the construction of modular (offsite) and State-owned facilities to align with the Maryland Building Performance Standards (MBPS). This action also updates the relevant plumbing codes in MPC to implement Ch. 547, Acts of 2025, Environment Water Bottle Filling Stations Requirement. Finally, this adoption eliminates the new International Mechanical Code requirement to install piping, including that used for flammable refrigerants, within shafts provided that the pipe penetration of any fire-rated assembly (floors, walls, etc.) is protected by approved firestop materials or assemblies.

Under the general Statewide Maryland Building Performance Standards (MBPS), this action reorganizes several code cycles worth of amendments to align with adopted codes, removes the prescriptive energy path option adopted by Maryland during the last code cycle as this method was fully incorporated into this latest edition of the International Residential Code, removes duplicate definitions, and clarifies the authority of the Elevator Unit in relation to building codes. This action also removes the requirement for new renewable load management sections of the IECC and maintains the renewable load management framework as an option for additional energy features.

Finally, under Industrialized Buildings and Manufactured Homes, this action updates definitions; clarifies that relocatable buildings, such as school units, may be moved to new locations so long as their energy and design comply with the requirements for the new location at time of initial construction; removes irrelevant or obsolete requirements; and updates application requirements and fee schedules related to industrialized building and manufactured homes.

Estimate of Economic Impact

I. Summary of Economic Impact. The fee schedule for manufacturers of industrialized buildings is increasing for the following service fees:

(1) Annual application fee is increasing from $500 to $700.

(2) When a design is unusual, and involves special analysis, the additional charge is increasing from $25 to $50 per hour to cover its added costs.

(3) Residential structures [$50] $70 for each insignia.

(4) Other structures [$90] $110 for each insignia.

(5) For residential structures, instead of the [$50 ]insignia fee described in C(1)(a) and (2)(a) of this regulation, the manufacturer, at the time of filing of a new or annual application with the Department, may elect a [$65] $85 insignia fee for a [floor]panel area of 1,200 square feet or less, plus an additional [$65]$40 insignia fee for each increment of 500 square feet, or part of it, over 1,200 square feet.

(6) When the Department is directly providing services for plan review and monitoring for factory operations and quality assurance programs:

(a) Plan review [$25] $50 per hour ($100 minimum fee);

(b) Inspection fees and field services per [man-hour] hour: [$10] $50 per half [man-hour] hour, including travel time.

(7) When the Department is directly providing services for monitoring of industrialized building installation at sites, the fee for these services will be [$20] $50 per hour, including travel time ([$50] $100 minimum fee).

These fee increases are minimal and well below market value for similar services provided in the private sector. Not all services are requested each year. Additionally, only one affected manufacturer is located in Maryland.

II. Types of Economic Impact.

Impacted Entity	Revenue (R+/R-) Expenditure (E+/E-)	Magnitude
A. On issuing agency:	NONE
B. On other State agencies:	NONE
C. On local governments:	NONE
	Benefit (+) Cost (-)	Magnitude
D. On regulated industries or trade groups:
Industrialized Building Manufacturers	(-)	$94,360
E. On other industries or trade groups:	NONE
F. Direct and indirect effects on public:	NONE

III. Assumptions. (Identified by Impact Letter and Number from Section II.)

D. In fiscal year 2025:

Number of non-residential insignias issued (sold) 4,400

Number of residential insignias issued (sold) 288

Number of modular plans received for review 550

Number of manufacturer annual application 29

Note, of the 29 manufacturers subject to these minor fee increases for application processing and insignia costs, only one is based in Maryland.

Economic Impact on Small Businesses

The proposed action has minimal or no economic impact on small businesses.

Impact on Individuals with Disabilities

The proposed action has no impact on individuals with disabilities.

Opportunity for Public Comment

Comments may be sent to Mischelle F. VanRusel, Deputy Commissioner, Division of Labor and Industry, 10946 Golden West Drive, Suite 160, or call 410-767-2225, or email to [email protected]. Comments will be accepted through July 27, 2026. Final action on the proposal will be considered by during a public meeting to be held on July 16, 2026 at 11:30 a.m. at 10946 Golden West Drive, Suite 160, Hunt Valley, MD 21031 see: https://labor.maryland.gov/labor/build/buildnews.shtml for additional details.

Open Meeting

Final action on the proposal will be considered by The Department of Labor during a public meeting to be held on July 16, 2026 at 11:30, at 10946 Golden West Drive, Suite 160, Hunt Valley, MD 21031 see: https://labor.maryland.gov/labor/build/buildnews.shtml for additional details.

Editor s Note on Incorporation by Reference

Pursuant to State Government Article, 7-207, Annotated Code of Maryland, the 2024 International Building Code, 2024 International Residential Code for One- and Two-Family Dwellings, 2024 International Energy Conservation Code, 2024 International Plumbing Code, and National Electrical Code, 2023 Edition (NFPA 70) have been declared documents generally available to the public and appropriate for incorporation by reference. For this reason, they will not be printed in the Maryland Register or the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR). Copies of these documents are filed in special public depositories located throughout the State. A list of these depositories was published in 53:1 Md. R. 10 (January 9, 2026), and is available online at www.dsd.maryland.gov. These documents may also be inspected at the office of the Division of State Documents, 16 Francis Street, Annapolis, Maryland 21401.

09.12.50 Model Performance Code

Authority: Public Safety Article, 12-201(f), Annotated Code of Maryland ‎

.02 General.

A. (text unchanged)

B. Application.

(1) (text unchanged)

(2) For industrialized buildings approved by an approved testing facility under COMAR 09.12.52 after the effective date of these regulations:

(a) This chapter and the codes incorporated by reference apply to any approved building provided that construction begins within 6 months after the Department s adoption of the [2024] 2027 edition of the International Building Code; and

(b) The approved testing facility shall state in its approval letter to the Department and the manufacturer of the building:

(i) (text unchanged)

(ii) That approval will expire for a building unless construction begins within 6 months after Department s adoption of the [2024] 2027 edition of the International Building Code.

(3) For industrialized buildings approved by an approved testing facility under COMAR 09.12.52 prior to the effective date of these regulations, the previous version of this chapter and the [2018] 2021 International Building Code shall apply provided that construction begins prior to 6 months after the effective date of these regulations.

C. D. (text unchanged)

.02-1 Incorporation by Reference.

A. (text unchanged)

B. Documents Incorporated.

(1) [2021] 2024 International Building Code (International Code Council), which is incorporated by reference in COMAR 09.12.51.04A(1) and as modified in COMAR 09.12.51.04B .

(2) [2021] 2024 International Plumbing Code (International Code Council) modified as follows:

(a) On page 29, add the following to the definition of Water Dispenser :

(i) Add the words at least 10 inches in height between fixture and that ,

(ii) Add the words and sanitary drainage system between the words system and of , and

(iii) Add the words The fixture can be either separate from or integral to the drinking fountain and incorporates a water cooler when located in the interior of a building. to the end of the definition.

(b) On page 45, in Section 410.3.1, add the following words at the end of the paragraph entitled Minimum number.

There shall be at least one water dispenser or combined water dispenser and drinking fountain, as defined under Environment Article 9-2701(1) and 9-2701(2) in the following scenarios:

1. New construction at each location where a drinking fountain is required as mandated under the current version of this code, as adopted by the State or local jurisdiction, as well as under any State or local law.

2. Any building undergoing renovation, if the renovation includes replacing the drinking fountain.

3. Any building renovation where the installation of a drinking fountain is required under the current version of this code as adopted by the State or local jurisdiction, as well as under any State or local law or regulation.

(c) On page 45, in Section 410.3.1, add the following list item to the subsection entitled Exceptions:

3. There is no requirement for a building located in a commercial or industrial area to install a combined water dispenser and drinking fountain when the only renovation being completed is the replacement of a drinking fountain.

4. There is no requirement for a building located in a commercial or industrial area to install a combined water dispenser bottle filling station or combined water bottle filling station and drinking fountain when the building has potable water available through a source other than a drinking fountain, such as a kitchen.

[(a)] (d) [(b)] (e) (text unchanged)

(3) National Electric Code, [2020] 2023 Edition (NFPA 70), except in Article 210.8(F) Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupter Protection for Personnel, Outdoor Outlets Exception include and heating, air-conditioning, and refrigeration equipment that serve the dwelling.

(4) [2021] 2024 International Residential Code for One- and Two-Family Dwellings (International Code Council), which is incorporated by reference in COMAR 09.12.51.04A(2) and as modified in COMAR 09.12.51.04C.

(5) [2021] 2024 International Mechanical Code (International Code Council)[.] modified as follows: On page 131, delete 1109.2.5 Refrigerant pipe shafts .

(6) [2021] 2024 International Energy Conservation Code (International Code Council), which is incorporated by reference in COMAR 09.12.51.04A(3) and as modified in COMAR 09.12.51.04D.

(7) (text unchanged)

.03 Model Performance Code.

A. B. (text unchanged)

[C. The Department encourages home builders to construct new high-performance homes.]

[D.] C. (text unchanged)

09.12.51 Maryland Building Performance Standards

Authority: Public Safety Article, 12-503, 12-507(a)(2), 12-508(g), and 12-510(d), Annotated Code of Maryland

.03 Definitions.

A. (text unchanged)

B. Terms Defined.

(1) (7) (text unchanged)

[(8) Hotel.

(a) Hotel means an establishment that offers sleeping accommodations for compensation.

(b) Hotel does not include a bed and breakfast establishment.]

[(9)] (8) [(17)](16) (text unchanged)

.04 Incorporation by Reference.

A. In this chapter, the following documents are incorporated by reference:

(1) [2021] 2024 International Building Code (International Code Council);

(2) [2021] 2024 International Residential Code for One- and Two-Family Dwellings (International Code Council); and

(3) [2021] 2024 International Energy Conservation Code (International Code Council).

B. Modifications to the International Building Code.

(1) (2) (text unchanged)

(3) Chapter 1. [Delete the Section 101.2.1 Appendices and replace with the following:] Add the following subparagraph to Section 101.2.1:

[101.2.1 Appendices:] Section 101.2.1.1 The provisions in the Appendices C Group-U Agricultural Buildings, G Flood-Resistant Construction, and H Signs are adopted as part of the IBC.

(4) Chapter 3. Modify Section 308.5.1 Classification as Group E. At the end of Section 308.5.1, add Exception: A childcare facility may be classified as I-4 when the facility is classified as a day care occupancy under the State Fire Prevention Code.

(5) Chapter 4. Modify Section 406.2.7 Electric vehicle charging stations and systems. Delete Accessibility to electric vehicle charging stations shall be provided in accordance with Section 1107.

(6) Chapter 5. Modify Section 510.2 Horizontal building separation allowance with the following:

(a) Delete Condition 4; and

(b) Condition 7. Replace grade plane with lowest level of fire department vehicle access .

[(4)] (7) (text unchanged)

(8) Chapter 9. Modify Section 907.2.1.1 System initiation in Group A occupancies with an occupant load of 1,000 or more with the following:

(a) Replace section title with System initiation in Group A occupancies with an occupant load of 300 or more; and

(b) Replace 1,000 with 300 .

[(5)](9) (text unchanged)

(10) Chapter 10. Modify Section 1004.8 Concentrated business use areas. Add nail salons, after call centers, and before trading floors, .

[(6)](11) [(10)](15) (text unchanged)

[(11)] (16) Chapter 30. Elevators and Conveying Systems. The provisions of Chapter 30 of the IBC relate to elevators and conveying systems [and are], which are generally in addition to and not instead of the requirements set forth in [Public Safety Article, Title 12, Subtitle 8, Annotated Code of Maryland.] the Elevator, Escalator, and Chairlift Safety regulations in Chapter 81 of this subtitle adopted pursuant to the Public Safety Article, Title 12, Subtitle 8, Annotated Code of Maryland. In the event of a conflict between the IBC and the Annotated Code of Maryland or Chapter 81 of this Subtitle, the provisions of the Annotated Code of Maryland prevail.

(17) Chapter 31. Special Construction. Delete Section 3113 Relocatable Buildings and replace with the following The design, construction, and relocation of relocatable buildings shall be in accordance with COMAR 09.12.52.

[(12) Any rehabilitation work undertaken in an existing building as defined in COMAR 9.12.58 shall comply with the requirements of Maryland Building Rehabilitation Code set forth in COMAR 09.12.58.

(13) Modify Section 308.5.1 Classification as Group E. At the end of Section 308.5.1, add Exception: A childcare facility may be classified as I-4 when the facility is classified as a day care occupancy under the State Fire Prevention Code.

(14) Modify Section 406.2.7 Electric vehicle charging stations and systems. Delete Accessibility to electric vehicle charging stations shall be provided in accordance with Section 1107.

(15) Modify Section 411.5 Puzzle room exiting. Delete item 3 and replace with 3. All exits and exit access doors from each puzzle room shall be open and readily available upon activation by the automatic fire alarm system, automatic sprinkler system, a manual control at a constantly attended location and shall have a readily accessible control located inside each puzzle room.

(16) Modify Section 510.2 Horizontal building separation allowance with the following:

(a) Delete condition 4; and

(b) Condition 7. Replace grade plane with lowest level of fire department vehicle access .

(17) Modify Section 907.2.1.1 System initiation in Group A occupancies with an occupant load of 1,000 or more with the following:

(a) Replace section title with System initiation in Group A occupancies with an occupant load of 300 or more; and

(b) Replace 1,000 with 300 .

(18) Modify Section 1004.8 Concentrated business use areas. Add nail salons, after call centers, and before trading floors, .]

C. Modifications to the International Residential Code for One- and Two-Family Dwellings:

(1) Chapter 1. Scope and Administration:

[(a) Delete the Section 102.5 Appendices and replace with the following:

102.5 Appendices: The provisions in the Appendices AF Radon Control Methods and AQ Tiny Houses are adopted as part of the IRC;

(b) Add to Exception in Section 101.2 Scope the following:

(i) Exception: 2. Existing buildings undergoing repair, alterations or additions, and change of occupancy that comply complies with the Maryland Building Rehabilitation Code set forth in COMAR 09.12.58; and

(ii) Exception: 3. Maintenance of residential structures and premises shall comply with the Minimum Livability Code COMAR 09.12.54.]

(a) Add a 1. to the existing Exception in Section 101.2 Scope, and then add the following:

(i) Exception 2. Existing buildings undergoing repair, alterations or additions, and change of occupancy that comply with the Maryland Building Rehabilitation Code set forth in COMAR 09.12.58; and

(ii) Exception 3. Maintenance of residential structures and premises shall comply with the Minimum Livability Code set forth in COMAR 09.12.54.

(b) Add the following Subparagraph to 101.2.1:

101.2.1.1 Appendices: The provisions in Appendices BB Tiny Houses, and BE Radon Control Measures are adopted as part of the IRC;

(2) ELEVATORS. Chapter 3. BUILDING PLANNING. Add note to section R323 Elevators and Platform Lifts. The subject matter of this chapter is not within the scope of the Maryland Building Performance Standards. For the applicable requirements concerning elevators and conveying systems, refer to the Elevator, Escalator, and Chairlift Safety regulations in Chapter 81 of this subtitle adopted pursuant to the Public Safety Article, Title 12, Subtitle 8, Annotated Code of Maryland.

[(2)] (3) ENERGY. Chapter 11. ENERGY EFFICIENCY.

[(a) Modify Section N1101.13.15 Additional energy efficiency, add 4. For buildings complying with Section N1102.1.3.1, the structure shall also comply with the additional energy features in Section N1108.3. ]

[(b)] (a) Modify [Section N1102.1.1] Section N1101.4 Above code programs. Add to the end of [Section N1102.1.1] Section N1101.4, Compliance with the Silver Rating of the [ICC/ASHRAE 700-2015] ICC 700 National Green Building Standard as codified in 12-509(a) of the Annotated Code of Maryland shall be considered to be in compliance with this code.

[(3)] (4) [(5)](6) (text unchanged)

[(6) Modify Section P2904.1 by deleting A backflow preventer shall not be required to separate a sprinkler system from the water distribution system, provided that the sprinkler system complies with all of the following:

(a) The system complies with NFPA 13D or Section P2904;

(b) The piping material complies with Section P2906;

(d) The system does not have a fire department connection. ]

D. Modifications to the International Energy Conservation Code.

(1) (text unchanged)

(2) Add a note to [Section C405.2.5] Section C403.7.6 [Specific Application Controls: For the new construction of hotels] Automatic Control of HVAC Systems Serving Guest Rooms:

(a) (b) (text unchanged)

(3) Section C405.15 Renewable Energy Systems. Delete in its entirety.

(4) Section C406.1 Compliance. At the end of section C406.1 Item 2, delete and C406.1.2.

(5) Section C406.1 Compliance. Delete Exception item 1 in its entirety.

(6) Section C460.1 Compliance. Renumber Exception 2 to Exception 1

(7) Section C406.1 Compliance Renumber Exception 3 to Exception 2.

(8) Section C406.1.1 Additional energy efficiency credit requirements. Replace existing language with the following:

Buildings shall comply with sufficient measures from Section C406.2 and C406.3 to achieve not less than the number of required efficiency credits from Table C406.1.1(1) based on building occupancy group and climate zone. Where a project contains multiple occupancies, the total required energy credits from each building occupancy shall be weighted by the gross conditioned floor area to determine the weighted-average project energy credits required. Accessory occupancies shall be included with the primary occupancy group for the purposes of Section C406.

[(3)] (9) Modify [Section R102.1.1] Section R104.1.1 Above code programs. Add to the end of [Section R102.1.1] Section R104.1.1, Compliance with the Silver Rating of the [ICC/ASHRAE 700-2015] ICC 700 National Green Building Standard as codified in 12-509(a) of the Annotated Code of Maryland shall be considered to be in compliance with this code.

(4) (8) (proposed for repeal)

E. (text unchanged)

09.12.52 Industrialized Buildings and Manufactured Homes

Authority: Public Safety Article, 12-305, Annotated Code of Maryland

.02 Definitions.

A. (text unchanged)

B. Terms Defined.

(1) (6) (text unchanged)

(7) Manufactured Home.

(a) Manufactured home (formerly called a mobile home in the Act and in the Federal Act) means a structure, transportable in one or more sections, that is:

(i) In the traveling mode, 8 body feet or more in width [or 40] and 30 body feet or more in length;

[(ii) When erected on site, 320 or more square feet;]

[(iii)] (ii) [(v)] (iv) (text unchanged)

(b) (text unchanged)

(8) (9) (text unchanged)

(10) Regulations means the Industrialized Buildings and Manufactured Homes Regulations (COMAR [09.12.52.01 .18] 09.12.52.01 .16).

(11) (text unchanged)

(12) The terms [ approved testing facility ,] Department , first user , industrialized building , [ installed ] install , local enforcement agency , [ manufactured home ,] "Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards Act , [ Secretary ,] and site have the meanings stated in Public Safety Article, 12-301, Annotated Code of Maryland.

.03 Enforcement Generally.

A. (text unchanged)

B. Review by Department. The Department will review plans for compliance with the State building codes as required in this regulation. If there are code concerns or insufficient information on the plans, the Department may require the manufacturer to revise the documents to be in code compliance.

[B.] C. [D.] E. (text unchanged)

F. Manufacturers shall furnish a report to the Department on a monthly basis indicating the destination of all units shipped for erection or installation in the State. These reports shall be submitted no later than the 10th day of the following month.

.04 Enforcement in Localities.

A. Reports to the Secretary. Each governmental jurisdiction shall furnish monthly notice to the Department, on forms supplied by the Department, of each industrialized building being erected or installed in its jurisdiction, giving the State insignia number, type or model, manufacturer's name, and any other data needed to properly identify each unit. In lieu of these reports, the jurisdiction may complete and forward the location report form shipped with each unit. [Manufacturers shall also furnish this same information to the Department on a monthly basis, indicating the destination of all units shipped for erection or installation in the State. These reports shall be submitted no later than the 10th day of the following month.]

B. C. (text unchanged)

.07 Reference Standards.

A. The standards identified in the Model Performance Code which are incorporated by reference in COMAR 09.12.50 shall constitute the reference standards for industrialized building construction in the State.

B. The structural design loads for a relocatable building shall either meet or exceed the established design loads that were applicable to the new location at the time of the initial state labeling.

.08 Energy Conservation Standards.

A. All industrialized buildings shall be designed to meet all the applicable energy conservation standards as identified in the State Model Performance Code (COMAR 09.12.50). [In using these standards, the design shall be based on a minimum of 5,200 degree days.]

B. The energy efficiency of a relocatable building shall either meet or exceed the climate zone energy efficiency requirements applicable to the new location that were in effect at the time of initial state labeling.

.09 Application for Plan Approval by Manufacturers.

A. General. A plan approval shall be obtained from the Department for each model of industrialized building which is subject to these regulations. Approved models shall be accepted by the local enforcement agency as approved for the purpose of granting an installation permit[ when the design loads are safe for the locality as determined by the local enforcement agency]. Installation permits shall be issued subject to compliance with Public Safety Article, 12-305, Annotated Code of Maryland, and provisions of this regulation.

B. Application. An application to the Department for plan approval shall include:

(1) A completed application [in duplicate ]on forms obtainable from the Department.

(2) [Two] A complete [sets] electronic set of [plans] a sample plan and specifications [for the prototype model]. When additional models use the same systems as [in] the [prototype] sample, [two sets] one set of the floor plans only [must] may be submitted for each of the additional models. Calculations and any required test results will be submitted through the approved [test] testing facility (ATF) or may be prepared by the approved [test] testing facility and included in their submission.

(3) Quality control procedures manual or manuals pursuant to C of this regulation. This manual shall be updated as necessary upon any changes to the building code, personnel, plant location, or layout.

(4) (5) (text unchanged)

(6) New Models and Changes. When new models or alterations are desired to be manufactured after the initial application approval, a request for approval for the new model or modification in the prototype unit shall be submitted before any production of these models for shipment to this State. [Two copies] One electronic copy of the plans or changes shall be provided. A certification letter shall also be received from the [approved testing facility] ATF showing its review and approval for code compliance of the new models or alterations. The fee prescribed in Regulation [.12C] .12 of this chapter shall be paid.

C. In-Plant Quality Assurance.

(1) The quality control manual required by B(3) of this regulation will outline the manufacturer's program to insure compliance with his approved plans and specifications. It will list the various tests and checks that must be recorded for each unit being manufactured. The manufacturer and approved testing facility shall maintain records for not less than [2] 5 years after shipment to verify that each unit has been inspected and complies with the plans as approved by the Department.

(2) (text unchanged)

(3) If a manufacturer opts to start construction before receiving the Department s review letter and stamped plan, it is at the manufacturer s own risk and expense to make modifications based on the final stamped plan issued by the Department.

(4) If any construction defect is reported, the manufacturer and ATF shall conduct the inspection and repair as needed within 3 weeks. A final report on any defects and how they were addressed shall be sent to the Department within 1 week of completion.

D. (text unchanged)

.10 Label.

A. (text unchanged)

B. Manufacturer's Data Plate and Other Markings. The information listed below shall be placed on one or more permanent manufacturer's data plates in the vicinity of the electrical distribution panel or in some other location that is readily accessible for inspection. The approved testing facility shall approve the form, completeness, and location of the data plate.

(1) (3) (text unchanged)

(4) Wind load, ground/roof snow, roof live load, [and floor loads] floor live load and seismic design information, and any other special use limitations will be shown. Also, if any unit requires additional on-site work, the data plate will show the specific features which were inspected and those which shall be inspected locally.

(5) (6) (text unchanged)

C. D. (text unchanged)

.11 State Certification Insignias.

A. B. (text unchanged)

C. Control of Insignias. Each approved testing facility shall maintain close control of the State certification insignias to [insure] ensure their proper use. The facility shall submit to the Department a monthly report itemizing the insignias issued to the manufacturers by serial numbers, and stating the number of State insignias on hand at the end of each month. The report shall be sent no later than the 10^th day of the following month.

D. [Report of Shipments. The manufacturer shall send to the Department a monthly report of units shipped, showing the State certification insignia numbers, manufacturer's serial numbers, approved testing facilities' serial numbers, type or model, and destination in the State. The report shall be sent no later than the 10th day of the following month.] Monthly Report. The manufacturer shall send to the Department a monthly report of units shipped, showing the State certification insignia numbers, manufacturer s serial numbers, approved testing facility s serial numbers, type or model, and destination in the State. The monthly report shall be sent no later than the 10^th day of the following month.

E. Location Report. The manufacturer shall submit a location report prior to shipping a unit or units to the Department.

.12 Fees.

A. The annual application fee is [$500] $700 for a new application and $500 for a renewal application. When a manufacturer has more than one plant producing approved models, an additional $500 application fee for each additional plant, with details on each plant as part of the quality control manuals, will be required.

B. When a design is unusual, and involves special analysis, the Department will also charge a rate of [$25] $50 per [man-hour] hour to cover its added costs. When practical, the Department will estimate costs before submittal and provide a report on hourly activities. If the complexity or sophistication of the system requires, or if the applicant so chooses, the Department may submit the plan for the system to an approved independent testing agency or consulting engineer for evaluation. In this case, the applicant will be required to pay whatever costs the agency may charge. If the applicant chooses to obtain prior analysis by an approved testing agency before submission, the Secretary will consider this in determining the charges to be made by the Department. However, test reports from the approved agency shall be submitted with the original application.

C. State Insignia Fees.

(1) Insignia fees for the certification of industrialized building construction at the manufacturing facility are as follows:

(a) Residential structures [$50] $70 for each insignia;

(b) Other structures [$90] $110 for each insignia.

(2) (text unchanged)

(3) For residential structures, instead of the [$50] insignia fee described in C(1)(a) and (2)(a) of this regulation, the manufacturer, at the time of filing of a new or annual application with the Department, may elect a [$65] $85 insignia fee for a [floor] panel area of 1,200 square feet or less, plus an additional [$65] $40 insignia fee for each increment of 500 square feet, or part of it, over 1,200 square feet.

D. (text unchanged)

E. When the Department is directly providing services for plan review and monitoring for factory operations and quality assurance programs:

(1) Plan review [$25] $50 per hour ($100 minimum fee);

(2) Inspection fees and field services as in F of this regulation.

F. Inspection fees and field services per [man-hour] hour:

(1) [$10] $50 per half [man-hour] hour, including travel time.

(2) (text unchanged)

G. When the Department is directly providing services for monitoring of industrialized building installation at sites, the fee for these services will be [$20] $50 per hour, including travel time ([$50] $100 minimum fee).

H. I. (text unchanged)

PORTIA WU
Secretary of Labor

Title 10
MARYLAND DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

Notice of Proposed Action

[26-085-P]

The Secretary of Health proposes to:

(1) Amend Regulations .02 and .05-5 under COMAR 10.09.24 Medical Assistance Eligibility;

(2) Adopt new Regulations .01 .11 under a new chapter, COMAR 10.09.67 Justice-Involved Case Management;

(3) Amend Regulation .01 under COMAR 10.67.01 Maryland Medicaid Managed Care Program: Definitions;

(4) Amend Regulation .10 under COMAR 10.67.03 Maryland Medicaid Managed Care Program: MCO Application; and

(5) Amend Regulations .04 and .13 under COMAR 10.67.04 Maryland Medicaid Managed Care Program: Managed Care Organizations,

Statement of Purpose

The purpose of this action is to:

(1) Expand services eligible for reimbursement during incarceration, as well as define the population eligible for those services;

(2) Define requirements for services reimbursed prior to release from certain public institutions;

(3) Expand the definition of Special Needs Populations to include certain individuals being released from certain public institutions; and

(4) Further define MCO responsibilities to individuals post-release from certain public institutions.

Estimate of Economic Impact

I. Summary of Economic Impact. The proposed action would expand Medicaid coverage to include justice-involved (JI) case management services as well as medication assisted treatment (MAT) pre-release from certain public institutions. These proposed changes would become effective on October 23, 2025, for services rendered under the CAA, 2023, 5121 pending CMS approval, and on December 16, 2025, for services rendered under the HealthChoice 1115 Reentry Demonstration. The program anticipates an economic impact of $794,361.22 in increased expenditures for the Department in Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 consisting of $397,180.61 special funds and $397,180.61 federal funds. Additionally, the FY2026 economic impact includes an increase of revenue for the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services (DPSCS) of $347,098.44 for reimbursement for JI case management and dispensing of MAT medications. The Department also anticipates an economic benefit of $447,262.71 in FY26 for community-based behavioral health providers as reimbursement for the provision of associated services.

II. Types of Economic Impact.

Impacted Entity	Revenue (R+/R-) Expenditure (E+/E-)	Magnitude
A. On issuing agency:
Maryland Department of Health	(E+)	$794,361.22
B. On other State agencies:
Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services	(R+)	$347,098.44
C. On local governments:	NONE
	Benefit (+) Cost (-)	Magnitude
D. On regulated industries or trade groups:
Community-based Behavioral Health Providers	(+)	$447,262.71
E. On other industries or trade groups:	NONE
F. Direct and indirect effects on public:	NONE

III. Assumptions. (Identified by Impact Letter and Number from Section II.)

(a) The Department anticipates that no CAA, 2023, 5121 services will be billed in FY26 because the State has not received CMS approval of the associated State Plan Amendment.

(b) For JI case management services, the Department will cover 3 units of JI case management services for each period of incarceration for the individual participating in the 1115 Reentry Demonstration. Costs for these services are anticipated at $561.05 per member per 30 day unit.

(d) Total Departmental expenditures = $794,361.22 for FY26. ($397,180.61 special funds and $397,180.61 federal funds). For detailed calculations, please see B below.

B. (a) DPSCS will begin providing services through the HealthChoice 1115 Reentry Demonstration and billing for those services on April 1st, 2026. DPSCS anticipates providing JI case management services to 30 adults per month in the fourth quarter of FY26. 30 x $561.05 x 3 = $50,494.50. Resulting in an anticipated impact of $50,494.50 for justice-involved case management services in FY26.

(b) DPSCS will provide MAT services in collaboration with community-based behavioral health providers. DPSCS will provide MAT dispensing services while community-based providers will provide MAT counseling and prescribing services. DPSCS anticipates that 141 justice-involved adults will receive MAT services per month. 141 x $1,758.55 x 3 = $743,866.65. MAT dispensing will account for $296,603.94 with the remaining estimated $447,262.71 allocated to community-based behavioral health providers for MAT counseling and prescribing services.

(c) DPSCS total increased revenue calculation includes the $50,494.50 for JI case management services + $296,603.94 for MAT dispensing services for a total increase in revenue of $347,098.44.

D. See B(b) above.

Economic Impact on Small Businesses

The proposed action has minimal or no economic impact on small businesses.

Impact on Individuals with Disabilities

The proposed action has an impact on individuals with disabilities as follows:

The 1115 Reentry Demonstration program targets individuals with an SUD and, or SMI diagnosis. The 1115 Reentry Demonstration program will reimburse MAT prior to release as well as case management, both of which will increase access to post-release services such as medical, educational and other social services.

Opportunity for Public Comment

Comments may be sent to Jordan Fisher Blotter, Director, Office of Regulation and Policy Coordination, Maryland Department of Health, 201 West Preston Street, Room 534 Baltimore, Maryland 21201, or call 410-767-0938, or email to [email protected]. Comments will be accepted through July 27, 2026. A public hearing has not been scheduled.

Subtitle 09 MEDICAL CARE PROGRAMS

10.09.24 Medical Assistance Eligibility

Authority: Health-General Article, 2-104(b), 2-105(b), 15-103, 15-105, and 15-401 15-407; Annotated Code of Maryland

.02 Definitions.

A. (text unchanged)

B. Terms Defined.

(1) (10) (text unchanged)

[(10-1)] (11) [(21-1)] (26) (text unchanged)

(27) Former foster care child means an individual younger than 26 who was formerly in a State out-of-home placement, including categorical Medical Assistance, during the foster care period in which they either turned 18 years old or attained a higher age during extended out-of-home placement, as described in COMAR 10.09.24.03.

[(21-2)] (28) [(25)] (33) (text unchanged)

(34) Inmate of a public institution means an individual residing involuntarily in a public institution in the State as a result of being accused or found guilty of a criminal or delinquent offense.

(35) Institution for Mental Disease (IMD).

(a) Institution for Mental Disease (IMD) means a hospital, nursing facility, or other institution of more than 16 beds that is primarily engaged in providing diagnosis, treatment or care of persons with mental diseases, including medical attention, nursing care and related services.

(b) Institution for Mental Disease (IMD) includes facilities established and maintained primarily for the care and treatment of individuals with mental diseases, regardless of if it is licensed as such.

(c) Institution for Mental Disease (IMD) does not mean an institution for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities.

[(26)] (36) [(47)] (59) (text unchanged)

[(48)] (60) Public Institution.

(a) (c) (text unchanged)

(d) Public institution includes:

(i) Correctional facilities operated by local jurisdictions in the State;

(ii) Correctional facilities operated by the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services; and

(iii) Secure residential facilities operated by the Maryland Department of Juvenile Services.

[(49)] (61) [(63)] (76) (text unchanged)

.05-5 Nonfinancial Eligibility Requirements Institutions.

A. Inmate of a Public Institution.

[(1) To be eligible for Medical Assistance, an applicant or recipient may not be incarcerated as an inmate of a public institution.

(2) Inmate Status.]

[(a)] (1) An individual is considered [incarcerated as] an inmate of a public institution if the individual resides in a public institution involuntarily as a result of being accused or found [guilty of] to have committed a criminal or delinquent offense, including the duration of time in which the individual is involuntarily residing in the public institution in a preadjudication or pretrial status awaiting criminal proceedings, delinquency proceedings, penal dispositioning, or other involuntary detainment procedure.

[(b) An individual may not be considered an inmate of a public institution if the individual resides in a public:

(i) Institution voluntarily and not as the result of a legal criminal process;

(ii) Educational or vocational training institution for the purpose of receiving educational or vocational training; or

(iii) Institution for the first partial month of residence or for a temporary period pending other arrangements appropriate to the individual's needs.

(c) Hospitalization as a Result of the Commission of a Crime. An individual who is hospitalized as a result of an injury sustained during the commission of a crime and has not yet been incarcerated because of the hospitalization may not be considered an inmate of a public institution.

(d) Retaining Inmate Status. Except as provided in A(2)(f)]

(2) Except as provided in A(4) of this regulation, an individual's inmate status continues until the criminal [indictment] or delinquency charges against the individual [is] are dismissed or the individual is released from the public institution.

[(e)] (3) (text unchanged)

[(f) Inmate Admitted to Medical Institution. An inmate may be covered by Medical Assistance during the period when the inmate is admitted as an inpatient of a medical institution, such as a hospital, nursing facility, or juvenile psychiatric facility, and is receiving services covered by Medical Assistance.

(g) Individual Sent to an Institution for Mental Disease (IMD).

(i) Inmate status shall apply to an]

(4) An individual who is accused of a criminal offense and is [sent directly] ordered by a court to an IMD either for a mental examination or because the individual is determined mentally incompetent to stand trial[.], shall be considered an inmate of a public institution.

[(ii) An individual committed by a court to an IMD based on a verdict of not guilty by reason of insanity may not be considered an inmate of a public institution.]

(5) An individual may not be considered an inmate of a public institution if the individual:

(a) Resides in a public institution voluntarily and not as the result of a legal criminal process;

(b) Resides in a public educational or vocational training institution for the purpose of receiving educational or vocational training;

(c) Resides in a public institution for the first partial month of residence or for a temporary period pending other arrangements appropriate to the individual's needs;

(d) Is hospitalized as a result of an injury sustained during the commission of a crime and has not yet been incarcerated because of the hospitalization; or

(e) Is committed by a court to an IMD based on a verdict of not criminally responsible by reason of a mental disorder.

(6) Enrollment of Inmates of a Public Institution. An individual who is an inmate of a public institution:

(a) May apply for and be enrolled in Medical Assistance;

(b) May not be enrolled in a Managed Care Organization; and

(c) May only receive the following services:

(i) Services covered by Medical Assistance and furnished during the period when the inmate is admitted as an inpatient of a medical institution, such as a hospital, nursing facility, or juvenile psychiatric facility;

(ii) Justice-involved case management services, as described in COMAR 10.09.67; and

(iii) Pre-release services under a 1115 waiver.

[(3)] (7) Children Younger than 21 Years Old Committed to a Correctional Facility.

(a) A child committed by a court to a correctional institution due to a violation of the law shall be considered [incarcerated as] an inmate of a public institution.

(b) A child [committed to] placed by the court in the custody of the Maryland Department of Juvenile Services shall be considered [incarcerated as] an inmate of a public institution if the child is placed in a State-owned and State-operated facility, and that status shall continue until the child is released from the facility.

(c) A child [committed to] placed by the court in the custody of the Maryland Department of Juvenile Services may not be considered an inmate of a public institution if the child is living:

(i) (iii) (text unchanged)

B. Institution for Mental Disease [(IMD)].

(1) An institutionalized individual younger than 65 years old who is admitted for residence in an [institution for mental disease] IMD is not eligible for Medical Assistance, unless the applicant or recipient is:

(a) (b) (text unchanged)

(2) (4) (text unchanged)

10.09.67 Justice-Involved Case Management Services

Authority: Health-General Article, 2-104(b), 15-103, 15-105, and 15-141.2, Annotated Code of Maryland

.01 Definitions.

A. In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.

B. Terms Defined.

(1) Care coordinator means an employee of the justice-involved correctional facility provider that meets the certification and training requirements delineated in Regulation .03 of this chapter.

(2) Department has the meaning stated in COMAR 10.09.36.01.

(3) Entity means a:

(a) State or locally operated correctional agency;

(b) Correctional facility operated by local jurisdictions or the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services; or

(c) Secure residential facility operated by the Maryland Department of Juveniles Services.

(4) Inmate of a Public Institution has the meaning stated in COMAR 10.09.24.02.

(5) Justice-involved correctional facility provider means an entity that:

(a) Was approved by the Department to coordinate, oversee, and monitor justice-involved case management services rendered by qualified care coordinators;

(b) Employs care coordinators; and

(c) Meets the qualifications set forth in Regulation .04 of this chapter.

(6) Medical Assistance Program has the meaning stated in COMAR 10.09.36.01.

(7) Justice-Involved Case Management.

(a) Justice-involved case management means case management services which will assist eligible participants to gain access to needed medical, social, educational, and other services.

(b) Justice-involved case management includes activities involved in developing, revising, implementing, and monitoring the person centered care plan, as described in Regulation .05 of this chapter, and performed by a care coordinator through an approved justice-involved correctional facility provider.

(8) Participant means an individual who is certified as eligible for and is receiving Medical Assistance benefits.

(9) Person centered care plan means a plan that:

(a) Addresses physical, behavioral health, and health related social needs;

(b) Considers additional services and supports, either pre-release or post-release;

(c) Engages the participant at the center of decision making; and

(d) May include recommendations based on assessments conducted by other staff or community providers serving the participant.

(10) Program has the meaning stated in COMAR 10.09.36.01.

(11) Serious mental illness has the meaning stated in COMAR 10.21.17.02.

(12) Substance use disorder has the meaning stated in COMAR 10.09.06.02.

.02 Participant Eligibility.

A. Eligibility with a Qualified Diagnosis. A participant with a qualifying diagnosis as described in B of this regulation is eligible for justice-involved case management services if the individual:

(1) Is 18 years or older;

(2) Is an inmate of a public institution due to having received a sentence of incarceration; and

(3) Will be released from a public institution within 90 days.

B. Qualified Diagnoses. A qualifying diagnosis includes diagnosis of:

(1) A substance use disorder;

(2) A serious mental illness; or

(3) Both a substance use disorder and a serious mental illness.

C. Eligibility without a Qualified Diagnosis.

(1) A participant without a qualifying diagnosis as described in B of this regulation is eligible for justice-involved case management services if the individual meets one of the criteria in both C(2) and (3) of this regulation.

(2) Age Criteria. The individual shall meet one of the following age criteria:

(a) Be younger than 21 years old; or

(b) Be a former foster care child between the ages of 18 and 26.

(3) Inmate Criteria. After having been found by a court to have committed a criminal or delinquent offense, the individual shall meet one of the following inmate criteria:

(a) Be an inmate of a public institution who will be released from a public institution within 30 days; or

(b) Was an inmate of a public institution who has been released from a public institution in the past 30 days.

D. Participant Consent. A participant shall consent to receive justice-involved case management services.

E. A participant may not receive justice-involved case management services if they are receiving comparable services under 1915(b), 1915(c), or 1915(g) of 42 U.S.C 1396n.

.03 Care Coordinator Certification Requirements.

A. Care coordinators shall have completed all certification and training requirements set by the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services or the Department of Juvenile Services for care coordinators.

B. Care coordinators shall maintain the applicable certification from the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services or the Department of Juvenile Services without lapse while employed by a justice-involved correctional facility provider.

.04 Conditions for Participation.

A. General Program Requirements. A justice-involved correctional facility provider shall meet the general requirements for participation in the Program including:

(1) Meeting all the conditions for participation set forth in COMAR 10.09.36; and

(2) If delivering services via telehealth, comply with COMAR 10.09.49 and any applicable subregulatory guidance issued by the Department.

B. Justice-involved correctional facility providers shall:

(1) Employ care coordinators who meet minimum educational and experience requirements established by the Department;

(2) Ensure employed care coordinators are properly certified in accordance with Regulation .03 of this chapter;

(3) Attest to compliance with the duties regarding provision of justice-involved case management, in the manner required by the Department;

(5) Ensure that care coordinators have the capacity to meet with participants in-person or via telehealth;

(6) Ensure care coordinators are aware of and receive training on the eligibility requirements and application procedures of applicable federal, State, and local government assistance programs; and

(7) Maintain a current listing of medical, social, housing assistance, mental health, financial assistance, counseling, and other support services available to participants receiving justice-involved case management services.

C. Record Keeping Requirements.

(1) Justice-involved correctional facility providers shall maintain the following records for each participant receiving services:

(a) Verification of the participant's eligibility for services;

(b) A consent form signed by the participant, or the participant s parent or guardian, consenting to participate in justice-involved case management services;

(c) A signed consent form authorizing the provider to disclose the participant's health care information for purposes of care coordination;

(d) A complete person centered care plan, updated as needed; and

(e) Documentation of each justice-involved case management contact made with the participant including:

(i) The date of the contact;

(ii) The topic of the contact

(iii) The person contacted;

(iv) The care coordinator making the contact; and

(v) The modality of service and, if services were rendered in-person, the location of the contact.

(2) Justice-involved correctional facility providers shall maintain records demonstrating compliance with B of this regulation.

(3) Justice-involved correctional facility providers shall make records available to the Department for inspection upon request.

.05 Covered Services.

A. Effective October 23, 2025, the Program covers justice-involved case management services when a participant receives all case management services described in B of this regulation in a 30-day period.

B. Justice-involved Case Management Services. Justice-involved case management services include the following:

(1) Comprehensive assessment and periodic reassessment of participant needs, to determine the need for any medical, educational, social, or other services;

(2) Development and periodic revision of a person-centered care plan based on the information collected through the assessment;

(3) Referral and related activities to help the participant obtain needed supportive and stabilizing services necessary to address needs and goals specified in the person-centered care plan; and

(4) Monitoring and follow-up activities with the participant, family members, and service providers necessary to ensure that the person-centered care plan is effectively implemented.

C. The Program shall cover justice-involved case management services if:

(1) The services are provided by a care coordinator;

(2) The services are documented in the person-centered care plan; and

(3) The care coordinator provides a minimum of three visits to the participant to provide justice-involved case management services, during the 30-day period.

D. Care coordinators shall:

(1) Assist with the development or revision of the person-centered care plan by:

(a) Incorporating results from any relevant assessments into the person-centered care plan;

(b) Participating in the development or revision of a person-centered care plan for the participant;

(c) Encouraging the participant s participation in the development and periodic updating of the person-centered care plan; and

(d) Linking the participant with any services needed on an emergency basis before the person-centered care plan or revision of the plan is finalized;

(2) Assume responsibility for providing case management services to the participant;

(3) Act as a point of contact for the participant s case; and

(4) Implement and monitor the participant s person-centered care plan.

.06 Limitations.

A. Justice-involved case management services shall be advisory in nature.

B. A restriction may not be placed by the justice-involved correctional facility provider upon eligible individuals option to receive justice-involved case management services.

C. Justice-involved case management services may not restrict or otherwise affect:

(1) Eligibility for Title XIX benefits or other available benefits or programs; or

(2) The freedom of a participant to select from all available services for which the individual is found to be eligible.

D. Justice-involved case management services may not be rendered in connection with the implementation of 1915(b) or 1915(c) of 42 U.S.C 1396n.

E. Managed Care Organizations or the Behavioral Health Administrative Services Organization providing post-release justice-involved case management services may not be reimbursed through fee for service and shall instead be reimbursed in accordance with their individual contracts with the state.

F. A participant's justice-involved case management care coordinator may not be a provider of direct services for the participant.

G. Justice-involved case management services may not result in a delayed release from a public institution.

.07 Payment Procedures.

A. Providers shall bill the Program for services in accordance with COMAR 10.09.36.04.

B. Billing time limitations for claims submitted pursuant to this chapter are set forth in COMAR 10.09.36.06.

C. Effective October 23, 2025, the rate for justice-involved case management services is $561.05 per participant per 30-day period of service.

.08 Recovery and Reimbursement.

Recovery and reimbursement shall be as set forth in COMAR 10.09.36.07.

.09 Cause for Suspension or Removal and Imposition of Sanctions.

Cause for suspension or removal from the Program and imposition of sanctions shall be as set forth in COMAR 10.09.36.08.

.10 Filing Appeal.

Appeal procedures shall be as set forth in COMAR 10.09.36.09.

.11 Interpretive Regulation.

State regulations shall be interpreted as set forth in COMAR 10.09.36.10.

Subtitle 67 MARYLAND HEALTHCHOICE PROGRAM

10.67.01 Maryland Medicaid Managed Care Program: Definitions

Authority: Health-General Article, 15-101 and 15-103(b), Annotated Code of Maryland

.01 Definitions.

A. (text unchanged)

B. Terms Defined.

(1) (60) (text unchanged)

(61) Former foster care child has the meaning stated in COMAR 10.09.24.02.

[(61)] (62) [(93)] (94) (text unchanged)

(95) Inmate of a public institution has the meaning stated in COMAR 10.09.24.02.

[(94)] (96) [(184)] (186) (text unchanged)

10.67.03 Maryland Medicaid Managed Care Program: MCO Application

Authority: Health-General Article 15-103, Annotated Code of Maryland

.10 Special Needs Populations.

An MCO applicant shall include in its application the following information or descriptions:

A. B. (text unchanged)

C. Written evidence, including treatment protocols, of the applicant s ability to provide the range of clinical and support services specified in COMAR 10.67.04.05 .10 and .13, to ensure appropriate and coordinated services to the following special populations:

(1) (4) (text unchanged)

(5) Individuals who are homeless; [and]

(6) Individuals with HIV/AIDS; [and]

(7) Children in State-supervised care;

(8) Individuals who are an inmate of a public institution because of having received a sentence of incarceration who:

(a) Have been released from a public institution;

(b) Are 18 years and older; and

(c) Have been diagnosed with:

(i) A substance use disorder;

(ii) A serious mental illness; or

(iii) Both a substance use disorder and a serious mental illness; and

(9) Individuals who were an inmate of a public institution after having been found by a court to have committed a criminal or delinquent offense who:

(a) Have been released from a public institution; and

(b) Meet one of the following age criteria:

(i) Are younger than 21 years old; or

(ii) Are a former foster care child between the ages of 18 and 26; and

D. (text unchanged)

10.67.04 Maryland Medicaid Managed Care Program: Managed Care Organizations

Authority: Health-General Article, 2-104, 15-101, 15-102.3, and 15-103; Annotated Code of Maryland

.04 Special Needs Populations.

A. (text unchanged)

B. Special needs populations consist of the following non-mutually exclusive populations:

(1) (5) (text unchanged)

(6) Individuals with HIV/AIDS; [and]

(7) Children in State-supervised care[.];

(8) Individuals who are an inmate of a public institution because of having received a sentence of incarceration who:

(a) Have been released from a public institution;

(b) Are 18 years and older; and

(c) Have been diagnosed with:

(i) A substance use disorder;

(ii) A serious mental illness; or

(iii) Both a substance use disorder and a serious mental illness; and

(9) Individuals who were an inmate of a public institution after having been found by a court to have committed a criminal or delinquent offense who:

(a) Have been released from a public institution; and

(b) Meet one of the following age criteria:

(i) Are younger than 21 years old; or

(ii) Are a former foster care child between the ages of 18 and 26.

C. (text unchanged)

.13 Children in State-Supervised Care.

A. G. (text unchanged)

H. An MCO shall provide justice-involved case management services as described in COMAR 10.09.67.04 to an individual who:

(1) Was an inmate of a public institution after having been found by a court to have committed a criminal or delinquent offense;

(2) Has been released from a public institution; and

(3) Meets one of the following age criteria:

(a) Is younger than 21 years old; or

(b) Is a former foster care child between the ages of 18 and 26.

MEENA SESHAMANI, MD, PhD
Secretary of Health

Subtitle 25 MARYLAND HEALTH CARE COMMISSION

10.25.06 Maryland Medical Care Data Base and Data Collection

Authority: Health-General Article, 19-101, 19-103(c)(3), (4), (7), and (8), 19-109(a)(1), (6), and (7), 19-133, 19-134, and 19-137,
Annotated Code of Maryland

Notice of Proposed Action

[26-088-P]

The Maryland Health Care Commission proposes to amend Regulations .02 and .05 under COMAR 10.25.06 Maryland Medical Care Data Base and Data Collection. This action was considered at an open meeting held on May 21, 2026, a notice of which was given through publication in the Maryland Register, in accordance with General Provisions Article, 3-302(c), Annotated Code of Maryland.

Statement of Purpose

The purpose of this action is to amend Regulations .02 and .05 under COMAR 10.25.06 Maryland Medical Care Data Base and Data Collection, which govern the submission of healthcare data (claims, encounters, and eligibility) by payors to the Maryland Health Care Commission (MHCC). The amended regulations will allow the Commission to collect health care data for all services that are not covered (i.e. denied services). Data in the Maryland Medical Care Data Base (MCDB) is useful but there is work to be done to make the data more complete. Ongoing adverse decisions discussions with the Maryland Insurance Administration, Health Services Cost Review Commission, Maryland Department of Health, Prescription Drug Affordability Board, Maryland Health Benefits Exchange (MHBE) and the Health Education and Advocacy Unit revealed that all data collected by State agency partners related to utilization management are in larger, broad categories such as Durable Medical Equipment (DME), laboratory, radiology, pharmacy, and mental health services, but not at specific health services such as continuous glucose monitor and this data is only limited to the fully insured market. The State does not know the service-level information regarding denials and why. MHCC recommends that collecting denied claims across all payors and risk types (fully insured and self-insured) will give insights to the state regarding what health care services are being denied through utilization management procedures. Based on feedback from health insurers, MHCC has changed its definition of denied claims from a specified one to a definition that collects all denials for any reason. This change is both more comprehensive and reduces administrative burden for health insurers.

Estimate of Economic Impact

I. Summary of Economic Impact. The proposed action has an economic impact. These regulations change the reporting requirements for payors that submit healthcare encounters and claims to the MHCC. COMAR 10.25.06 applies to payors whose total covered lives exceed 1,000 insured members or who participate in the MHBE, regardless of the number of covered lives. Activities resulting from changes to the regulations will be completed within the MHCC budget, special MHCC funds, by existing MHCC staff, and through the current MHCC contract with the MHCC MCDB data contractor.

II. Types of Economic Impact.

Impacted Entity	Revenue (R+/R-) Expenditure (E+/E-)	Magnitude
A. On issuing agency:
Maryland Health Care Commission	(E+)	Within Budget
B. On other State agencies:	NONE
C. On local governments:	NONE
	Benefit (+) Cost (-)	Magnitude
D. On regulated industries or trade groups:
Payors - MCDB Data Submitters (35)	(-)	Moderate
E. On other industries or trade groups:	NONE
F. Direct and indirect effects on public:
Public	(+)	Moderate

III. Assumptions. (Identified by Impact Letter and Number from Section II.)

A. Maryland Health Care Commission (MHCC): MHCC will not require additional State funds to execute the expended data collection in these regulations. MHCC has budgeted for the anticipated changes to these regulations in the current MHCC MCDB contract with the MHCC MCDB data contractor.

D. Regulated industries or trade groups (payors): MHCC estimates that COMAR 10.25.06 will affect 35 payors (MCDB data submitters). All 35 payors are already submitting data to the MCDB. There will be an increase in the ongoing extraction of all reports. MHCC expects the economic impact due to the rise to be moderate per payor.

F. Direct and indirect effects on public: Collecting denied claims will allow the State to monitor the rise in adverse decisions in the State Health Care System by giving insights into what health care services are being denied through utilization management procedures. For example, the MHBE Value Plan Workgroup needs this information to analyze Continuous Glucose Monitors and diabetes care denials for the Value Plan to access its standardized cost-sharing. Value plans are health plans that offer lower deductibles and useful coverage for more health care services before an insured member s deductible is met. Value plans are designed to lower a member s out-of-pocket costs for the health care services the majority of people use most frequently.

Economic Impact on Small Businesses

The proposed action has minimal or no economic impact on small businesses.

Impact on Individuals with Disabilities

The proposed action has no impact on individuals with disabilities.

Opportunity for Public Comment

Comments may be sent to Kenneth Yeates-Trotman, Director, Center for Analysis and Information Systems , Maryland Health Care Commission, 4160 Patterson Avenue, Baltimore, Maryland 21215, or call 410-764-3557, or email to [email protected]. Comments will be accepted through July 27, 2026. A public hearing has not been scheduled.

Open Meeting

Final action on the proposal will be considered by the Maryland Health Care Commission during a public meeting to be held on September 17, 2026 at 1:00 p.m., at 4160 Patterson Avenue, Baltimore, Maryland..

.02 Definitions.

A. (text unchanged)

B. Terms Defined.

(1) Adjudicated means paid, denied, resolved, or settled.

(2) (5) (text unchanged)

(6) Denied in the context of a claim, means that a claim has been rejected for any reason.

[(6)] (7) (text unchanged)

[(7)] (8) Fee-for-service encounter means a health care visit in which a health care practitioner or office facility provided a health care service for which a claim was submitted to a reporting entity for payment [, and payment was made] on a per service basis.

[(8)] (9) [(10)] (11) (text unchanged)

[(11)] (12) Health information exchange or HIE [means an entity that creates or maintains an infrastructure that provides organizational and technical capabilities in an interoperable system for the electronic exchange of protected health information among participating organizations not under common ownership, in a manner that ensures the secure exchange of protected health information to provide care to patients. An HIE does not include an entity that is acting solely as a health care clearinghouse, as defined in 45 CFR 160.103. A payor may act as, operate, or own an HIE subject to these regulations.] has the meaning stated in Health-General Article, 4-301, Annotated Code of Maryland.

[(12)] (13) [(35)] (36) (text unchanged)

.05 Time Period for Submitting Data Reports.

A. Unless a different reporting time period is specified in the MCDB Submission Manual pursuant to B of this regulation, each reporting entity shall submit to the Commission a complete set of the entity s data for claims [paid] adjudicated during each quarter of a calendar year, in the form and manner described in Regulations .07 .14 of this chapter within 2 months of the last day in the applicable quarter.

B. Each reporting entity shall submit at least quarterly to the Commission a complete set of the reporting entity s data for claims [paid] adjudicated during the specific time period, in the form and manner described in Regulations .07 .14 of this chapter and within the time period specified in the MCDB Submission Manual, unless a more frequent submission schedule is instituted by the Commission pursuant to C of this regulation.

C. Before instituting a requirement that a reporting entity submit data [for claims paid] more frequently than quarterly, as required in A and B of this regulation, the Commission shall:

(1) (2) (text unchanged)

D. Along with calendar year 2027 submissions, each reporting entity shall submit to the Commission a complete set of the entity s historical data for claims adjudicated during each quarter of calendar year 2026 in the form and manner described in Regulations .07 .14 of this chapter and the 2027 MCDB Data Submission Manual and in accordance with one of the following schedules:

(1) Reports for claims adjudicated between January 1, 2026, and December 31, 2026, shall be submitted by May 31, 2027; or

(2) Reports shall be submitted quarterly as follows:

(a) Reports for claims adjudicated between January 1, 2026, and March 31, 2026, shall be submitted by May 31, 2027;

(b) Reports for claims adjudicated between April 1, 2026, and June 30, 2026, shall be submitted by August 31, 2027;

(c) Reports for claims adjudicated between July 1, 2026, and September 30, 2026, shall be submitted by November 30, 2027; and

(d) Reports for claims adjudicated between October 1, 2026, and December 31, 2026, shall be submitted by February 29, 2028.

JOAN GELRUD
Chair

Title 13A
STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION

Subtitle 02 LOCAL SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION

13A.02.01 Local Boards of Education

Authority: Education Article, 2-205, 4-101, 4-105, 4-106, 5-101, 5-109, and 7-103, Annotated Code of Maryland

Notice of Proposed Action

[26-080-P]

The State Board of Education proposes to amend Regulation .01 under COMAR 13A.02.01 Local Boards of Education. This action was considered by the State Board of Education at its April 28, 2026 meeting.

Statement of Purpose

The purpose of this action is to establish requirements for local boards of education to hold regular meetings of the local board in-person. There are outlined exceptions for special meetings of the local board and for exceptional circumstances. The amendments would also establish minimum requirements for local boards to hold an opportunity for public comment and adopt a written policy for conducting public comment.

Estimate of Economic Impact

The proposed action has no economic impact.

Economic Impact on Small Businesses

The proposed action has minimal or no economic impact on small businesses.

Impact on Individuals with Disabilities

The proposed action has no impact on individuals with disabilities.

Opportunity for Public Comment

Comments may be sent to Zachary Hands, Executive Director, Office of the State Board of Education, Maryland State Board of Education, 200 West Baltimore Street, Baltimore, MD 21201, or call 443-915-6094, or email to [email protected]. Comments will be accepted through July 27, 2026. A public hearing has not been scheduled.

Open Meeting

Final action on the proposal will be considered by the State Board of Education during a public meeting to be held on August 25, 2026 at 9 a.m., at 200 West Baltimore Street, Baltimore, MD 21201.

.01 Rules for Meetings.

[The rules generally adopted by deliberative bodies for their government shall be observed by the local board of education. A motion or resolution may not be declared adopted without the concurrence of a majority of the whole board; namely: three members when the board consists of five, four members when the board consists of six or seven, and five members when the board consists of eight or nine.]

A. This regulation governs the requirements for any meeting of a local board of education (local board). A local board shall comply with the rules generally adopted by deliberative bodies for their governance to ensure that all meetings are conducted in an open and transparent manner and as required by this Chapter.

B. Terms Defined. In this chapter, the following terms have the meaning indicated.

(1) Exceptional circumstances means a temporary, unexpected event that makes an in-person meeting unfeasible or unsafe, such as a State or local government-declared public health emergency, severe weather event that closes schools and government offices, or an infrastructure failure that renders the designated meeting location unusable.

(2) In-person meeting means the physical gathering of a quorum of a local board in a location to conduct public business.

(3) Open session means a meeting or part of a meeting of the local board that is open to the public as required by the Maryland Open Meetings Act, General Provisions Article, Title 3, Annotated Code of Maryland.

(4) Regularly scheduled business meeting means a recurring, pre-announced gathering of a quorum of the local board, conducted under a formal agenda for the purpose of conducting regular business.

(5) Special meetings means any non-regularly scheduled meeting of a local board that is typically called to address urgent or specific matters that arise between regular meetings.

C. Requirements for Regularly Scheduled Business Meetings.

(1) In-Person Meetings Required. A local board shall meet in person for a monthly regularly scheduled business meeting that includes an open session. The open session in-person meeting requirement does not apply to committees and task forces of the local board.

(2) Public Observation. Regularly scheduled business meetings shall be held in a physical location that:

(a) Admits the public;

(b) Is reasonably accessible to individuals who wish to attend; and

(c) Permits the public to observe and hear the meeting.

(3) Hybrid Meetings. Board members may participate remotely by video or telephone conference.

(4) Virtual Meetings Limited Exception.

(a) A local board may only meet virtually for a regularly scheduled business meeting under exceptional circumstances or special meetings as defined in B of this regulation.

(b) A local board shall meet the notice, access, and transparency requirements of Maryland s Open Meetings Act.

D. Closed Session. This regulation permits a local board to meet virtually when convening in closed session, consistent with the requirements of the Maryland Open Meetings Act, General Provisions Article, Title 3, Annotated Code of Maryland.

E. Public Comment.

(1) Opportunity for Public Comment. The local board shall permit a period during at least one of its monthly regularly scheduled business meetings to hear comments from members of the public.

(2) Adoption of Policy. The local board shall adopt a written policy regarding the process, rules, and procedures for public comment, which shall include:

(a) The rules for registering to speak;

(b) Any reasonable limitations on the time allotted to each speaker; and

(c) The subject matter that may be addressed during the public comment period.

(3) The local board shall make its public comment policy readily available to the public on its official website.

F. Motions and Resolutions.

(1) A motion or resolution may not be declared adopted without the concurrence of a majority of the members of the local board.

(2) A majority of members of the local board consists of three members when the board consists of five, four members when the board consists of six or seven, and five members when the board consists of eight or nine.

CAREY M. WRIGHT, ED.D.
State Superintendent of Schools

Subtitle 12 EDUCATOR LICENSURE

13A.12.06 Disciplinary Actions and Denials

Authority: Education Article, [ 6-706] 2-205, 2-303(g), 6-127, 6-701 6-708, 8-303, and 8-3A-03; Family Law Article, 10-119.3; and Criminal Law Article, 5-810; Annotated Code of Maryland

Notice of Proposed Action

[26-081-P]

The Professional Standards and Teacher Education Board and the State Board of Education proposes to amend Regulations .02 and .03 under COMAR 13A.12.06 Disciplinary Actions and Denials. This action was considered by the Professional Standards and Teacher Education Board at its April 9, 2026 meeting and the State Board of Education at its April 28, 2026 meeting.

Statement of Purpose

The purpose of this action is to serve two primary objectives:

(1) Alignment of licensure and contract regulations; and

(2) Discretionary authority for reciprocal discipline.

Estimate of Economic Impact

The proposed action has no economic impact.

Economic Impact on Small Businesses

The proposed action has minimal or no economic impact on small businesses.

Impact on Individuals with Disabilities

The proposed action has no impact on individuals with disabilities.

Opportunity for Public Comment

Comments may be sent to Kelly Meadows, Assistant State Superintendent, Maryland State Department of Education, 200 West Baltimore Street, Baltimore, MD 21201, or call 410-767-0386, or email to [email protected]. Comments will be accepted through July 27, 2026. A public hearing has not been scheduled.

Open Meeting

Final action on the proposal will be considered by the State Board of Education during a public meeting held on August 25, 2026 and the Professional Standards and Teacher Education Board during a public meeting to be held on September 10, 2026 at 9:30 am, at 200 West Baltimore Street, Baltimore, MD 21201.

.02 Grounds for Disciplinary Action or Denial.

A. (text unchanged)

B. Suspension Only. A license may be suspended by the State Superintendent of Schools under the following conditions:

(1) Breach of Contract. A license may be suspended for not more than 365 days if the license holder leaves the employment of a local school system [after July 15] in the absence of an emergency and without the consent of the local board of education in violation of the provisions of the Regular State Teacher s Contract set forth in COMAR 13A.07.02.01B. If an emergency arises, the local board may not unreasonably withhold its consent.

(2) (text unchanged)

C. D. (text unchanged)

.03 Petition for Disciplinary Action or Denial.

A. K. (text unchanged)

L. Reciprocal Discipline and Denial.

(1) If a licensing authority in another jurisdiction has sanctioned or taken final disciplinary action against a Maryland licensee or applicant based on grounds for disciplinary action set forth in .02C of this chapter, the State Superintendent may nevertheless deny, suspend, or revoke the licensee's or applicant's Maryland license.

(2) The State Superintendent may adopt the other jurisdiction's sanction or impose an independent sanction consistent with this chapter.

(3) If the sanction has been fully satisfied for all grounds set forth in .02C of this chapter, the State Superintendent may decline to take further disciplinary action in Maryland.

CAREY M. WRIGHT, ED.D.
State Superintendent of Schools

Title 14
INDEPENDENT AGENCIES

Subtitle 01 PRESCRIPTION DRUG AFFORDABILITY BOARD

14.01.07 Upper Payment Limit

Authority: Health-General Article, 21-2C-03(f)(1), 21-2C-08(b), 21-2C-14, 21-2C-16, Annotated Code of Maryland

Notice of Proposed Action

[26-076-P]

The Maryland Prescription Drug Affordability Board proposes to adopt new Regulation .01 under a new chapter, COMAR 14.01.07 Upper Payment Limit. This action was considered by the Board at an open meeting held on April 13 and May 18, 2026, notice of which was provided by publication on the PDAB s website, in accordance with General Provisions Article, 3-302(c), Annotated Code of Maryland.

Statement of Purpose

The purpose of this action is to:

(1) Establish an upper payment limit (UPL) for Jardiance through regulation; and

(2) Provide for inflation adjustment of the UPL on an annual basis.

Estimate of Economic Impact

I. Summary of Economic Impact. The Board anticipates that the proposed action may decrease prescription drug expenditures for Jardiance by state and local governments. Using the 2024 data in the Maryland Medical Claims Database (MCDB) for state and local government employees (utilization) and comparing the baseline UPL with the publicly available published list price for the drug (2024), the Board estimates a reduction in spending of over $8,000,000 if state and local governments paid the list price. When comparing the baseline UPL with the spending based on the estimated net price (after rebates), the Board estimates a reduction in spending for state and local government employee health plans of over $300,000. This estimate is under-inclusive because spending by other eligible governmental entities that are not reported in the MCDB such as state and county correctional facilities, state hospitals and health clinics at state institutions of higher education, are not included in this estimate. However, no data is available to estimate the potential savings associated with those payors.

This regulation is anticipated to reduce costs for eligible government entities and may reduce revenues ultimately realized by pharmaceutical manufacturers.

II. Types of Economic Impact.

Impacted Entity	Revenue (R+/R-) Expenditure (E+/E-)	Magnitude
A. On issuing agency:	NONE
B. On other State agencies:
(1) Department of Health	(E-)	Indeterminate
(2) Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services	(E-)	Indeterminate
(3) Department of Budget and Management	(E-)	Indeterminate
C. On local governments:
(1) Municipal Governments	(E-)	Indeterminate
(2) County Governments	(E-)	Indeterminate
	Benefit (+) Cost (-)	Magnitude
D. On regulated industries or trade groups:	NONE
E. On other industries or trade groups:
(1) Government Contractors	(-)	Indeterminate
(2) Carriers that Provide Health Benefit Plans	(-)	Indeterminate
(3) Pharmacy Benefit Managers	(-)	Indeterminate
(4) Pharmaceutical Manufacturers	(-)	Indeterminate
F. Direct and indirect effects on public:
(1) Public	(+)	Indeterminate

III. Assumptions. (Identified by Impact Letter and Number from Section II.)

B(1). See B(1).

B(2). See B(1).

B(3). The analysis relies on 2024 MCDB claims data identifying volume, cost, and utilization of the medication across "Eligible Governmental Entities." The $300,000 estimate represents the delta between the Estimated Commercial Net Cost (current list price minus estimated rebate) and the proposed upper payment limit if 100% of eligible governmental entities are participating. Decrease in expenditures would be reflected across governmental entities. This assumes that demand and access to the prescription drug product does not change. This also assumes minimal administrative costs associated with implementing this proposed action for the participating eligible governmental entities, with nominal administrative staff time included within existing entity resources.

C(1). See B(1).

C(2). See B(1).

E(1). Other government contractors that provide prescription drug products for state and local governments will incorporate the UPL into their contracting scheme with minimal administrative costs.

E(2). Carriers that provide health benefit plans for state and local governments will coordinate with contractors, partners, and PBMS. This coordination activity is expected to fall within the resources allocated in existing contracts.

E(3). Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) for state and local government plans will incorporate the UPL into existing rebate/reimbursement cycles with minimal one-time IT administrative costs. These administrative adjustments fall within the resources allocated in existing contracts.

E(4). The savings effected through the upper payment limit may ultimately be realized through a decrease in revenue by the manufacturer.

F(1). Reduced expenditures by state and local governments will have an unspecified positive impact on the public, as taxpayers, because the governments may allocate the savings.

Economic Impact on Small Businesses

The proposed action has minimal or no economic impact on small businesses.

Impact on Individuals with Disabilities

The proposed action has an impact on individuals with disabilities as follows:

Jardiance is a prescription drug product that treats diabetes; diabetes is a serious health condition recognized under the Americans with Disabilities Act. The Board anticipates that the proposed action will reduce costs for state and local governments for Jardiance. Those savings may be allocated by state and local government payors to increase access to the prescription drug product through expanded coverage and reduced barriers.

Opportunity for Public Comment

Comments may be sent to Christina Shaklee, Health Policy Analyst Advanced, Maryland Prescription Drug Affordability Board, 16900 Science Drive, Suite 112-114 Bowie, MD 20715, or call 410-703-7015, or email to [email protected]. Comments will be accepted through July 27, 2026. A public hearing has not been scheduled.

.01 Upper Payment Limit for Jardiance (empagliflozin).

A. Upper Payment Limit and Effective Date.

(1) The Board establishes an upper payment limit (UPL) for Jardiance (empagliflozin) set at:

(a) $6.80 per unit (pill); or

(b) $204 per 30-day supply.

(2) This upper payment limit applies to payments for drugs dispensed, administered, or purchased on or after January 1, 2027.

(3) An eligible governmental entity shall comply with this upper payment limit as specified in COMAR 14.01.06.03C.

(4) The Board shall publish a list of NDCs subject to this UPL on its website.

B. Inflation Adjustment.

(1) Beginning January 1, 2028, Board staff shall adjust the Jardiance UPL each year to account for inflation.

(2) Board staff shall calculate the inflation-adjusted UPL by multiplying the baseline UPL by the percentage change in CPI-U for the time period running from 18 months before the UPL went into effect to 18 months before the year in which the new UPL is implemented.

(3) The Board establishes a Baseline UPL for calendar year 2026 for Jardiance set at:

(a) $6.60 per unit (pill); or

(b) $198 per 30-day supply.

(4) For a UPL that is implemented in a subsequent year (after the baseline), staff calculates the UPL by:

(a) Utilizing the Baseline per pill UPL;

(b) Changing that number by the percentage change in the consumer price index for all urban consumers (CPIU) for the time period running from 18 months before the baseline UPL went into effect to 18 months before the year in which the UPL is implemented; and

(c) Rounding this number up to the nearest 5 cents.

(5) Board staff shall not adjust a UPL if the adjustment would violate the criteria for setting an upper payment limit set forth in COMAR 14.01.05.02D.

(6) Board staff shall post the inflation-adjusted UPL on the Board website by July 1, for implementation in the next calendar year.

C. Automatic Suspension.

(1) By operation of law, the UPL established in A and B of this regulation shall be automatically suspended for the time that the prescription drug product is identified by the federal Food and Drug Administration as currently in shortage on the prescription drug shortage list.

(2) Board staff shall post notice of the automatic suspension on the Board website.

(3) The suspension shall be automatically lifted when the prescription drug product is identified as resolved by the federal Food and Drug Administration on the prescription drug shortage list.

(4) Board staff shall post notice of the lifting of the automatic suspension on the Board website.

(5) The automatic suspension and lifting of the suspension provided for in C(1) and (3) of this regulation are self-executing.

ANDREW W. YORK
Executive Director

14.01.07 Upper Payment Limit

Authority: Health-General Article, 21-2C-03(f)(1), 21-2C-08(b), 21-2C-14, 21-2C-16, Annotated Code of Maryland

Notice of Proposed Action

[26-090-P]

The Maryland Prescription Drug Affordability Board proposes to adopt new Regulation .02 under a new chapter, COMAR 14.01.07 Upper Payment Limit. This action was considered by the Board at an open meeting held on May 18, 2026, notice of which was provided by publication on the PDAB s website, in accordance with General Provisions Article, 3-302(c), Annotated Code of Maryland.

Statement of Purpose

The purpose of this action is to:

(1) Establish an upper payment limit (UPL) for Ozempic through regulation; and

(2) Provide for inflation adjustment of the UPL on an annual basis.

Estimate of Economic Impact

I. Summary of Economic Impact. The Board anticipates that the proposed action may decrease prescription drug expenditures for Ozempic by state and local governments. Using the 2024 data in the Maryland Medical Claims Database (MCDB) for state and local government employees (utilization) and comparing the baseline UPL with the publicly available published list price for the drug (2024), the Board estimates a reduction in spending of approximately $23,000,000 if state and local governments paid the list price. When comparing the baseline UPL with the spending based on the estimated net price (after rebates), the Board estimates a reduction in spending for state and local government employee health plans of approximately $5,800,000. This estimate is under-inclusive because spending by other eligible governmental entities that are not reported in the MCDB such as state and county correctional facilities, state hospitals and health clinics at state institutions of higher education, are not included in this estimate. However, no data is available to estimate the potential savings associated with those payors.

This regulation is anticipated to reduce costs for eligible government entities and may reduce revenues ultimately realized by pharmaceutical manufacturers.

II. Types of Economic Impact.

Impacted Entity	Revenue (R+/R-) Expenditure (E+/E-)	Magnitude
A. On issuing agency:	NONE
B. On other State agencies:
(1) Department of Budget & Management	(E-)	Indeterminate
(2) Department of Public Safety & Corrections	(E-)	Indeterminate
(3) Department of Health	(E-)	Indeterminate
C. On local governments:
(1) Municipal Governments	(E-)	Indeterminate
(2) County Governments	(E-)	Indeterminate
	Benefit (+) Cost (-)	Magnitude
D. On regulated industries or trade groups:	NONE
E. On other industries or trade groups:
(1) Government Contractors	(-)	Indeterminate
(2) Pharmacy Benefit Managers	(-)	Indeterminate
(3) Carriers that provide health benefit plans	(-)	Indeterminate
(4) Pharmaceutical Manufacturers	(-)	Indeterminate
F. Direct and indirect effects on public:
Public	(+)	Indeterminate

III. Assumptions. (Identified by Impact Letter and Number from Section II.)

B(1). The analysis relies on 2024 MCDB claims data identifying volume, cost, and utilization of the prescription drug product across "Eligible Governmental Entities." The $5,800,000 estimate represents the delta between the Estimated Commercial Net Cost (current list price minus estimated rebate) and the proposed upper payment limit if 100% of eligible governmental entities are participating. Decrease in expenditures would be reflected across governmental entities. This assumes that demand and access to the prescription drug product does not change. This also assumes minimal administrative costs associated with implementing this proposed action for the participating eligible governmental entities, with nominal administrative staff time included within existing entity resources.

B(2). See B(1).

B(3). See B(1).

C(1). See B(1).

C(2). See B(1).

E(1). Other government contractors that provide prescription drug products for state and local governments will incorporate the UPL into their contracting scheme with minimal administrative costs.

E(2). Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) for state and local government plans will incorporate the UPL into existing rebate/reimbursement cycles with minimal one-time IT administrative costs. These administrative adjustments fall within the resources allocated in existing contracts.

E(3). Carriers that provide health benefit plans for state and local governments will coordinate with contractors, partners, and PBMS. This coordination activity is expected to fall within the resources allocated in existing contracts.

E(4). The savings effected through the upper payment limit may ultimately be realized through a decrease in revenue by the manufacturer.

F. Reduced expenditures by state and local governments will have an unspecified positive impact on the public, as taxpayers, because the governments may allocate the savings.

Economic Impact on Small Businesses

The proposed action has minimal or no economic impact on small businesses.

Impact on Individuals with Disabilities

The proposed action has an impact on individuals with disabilities as follows:

Ozempic is a prescription drug product that treats diabetes; diabetes is a serious health condition recognized under the Americans with Disabilities Act. The Board expects that the proposed action will reduce costs for state and local governments for Ozempic. Those savings may be allocated by state and local government payors to increase access to the prescription drug product through expanded coverage and reduced barriers.

Opportunity for Public Comment

Comments may be sent to Christina Shaklee, Health Policy Analyst Advanced, Maryland Prescription Drug Affordability Board, 16900 Science Drive, Suite 112-114, Bowie, MD 20715, or call 410-703-7015, or email to [email protected]. Comments will be accepted through July 27, 2026. A public hearing has not been scheduled.

.02 Upper Payment Limit for Ozempic (Semaglutide).

A. Upper Payment Limit and Effective Date.

(1) The Board establishes an upper payment limit (UPL) for Ozempic (semaglutide), New Drug Application number 209637, set at $274 per 30-day supply.

(2) Board staff shall calculate the NDC-level per-unit UPL and post the per-unit UPL on the Board website.

(3) This UPL applies to payments for drugs dispensed, administered, or purchased on or after January 1, 2027.

(4) An eligible governmental entity shall comply with this upper payment limit as specified in COMAR 14.01.06.03C.

B. Inflation Adjustment.

(1) Beginning January 1, 2028, Board staff shall adjust the Ozempic UPL each year to account for inflation.

(3) The Board establishes a baseline UPL for calendar year 2027 for Ozempic set at $274 per 30-day supply.

(4) For a UPL that is implemented in a subsequent year (after the baseline), staff calculates the UPL by:

(a) Utilizing the baseline UPL per 30-day supply;

(b) Adjusting that amount by the percentage change in the consumer price index for all urban consumers (CPIU) for the time period running from 18 months before the baseline UPL went into effect to 18 months before the year in which the UPL is implemented; and

(c) Rounding this number up to the nearest 5 cents.

(5) Board staff shall not adjust a UPL if the adjustment violates the criteria for setting an upper payment limit set forth in COMAR 14.01.05.02D.

(6) Board staff shall post the inflation-adjusted UPL on the Board website by July 1, for implementation in the next calendar year.

(7) Board staff shall calculate the NDC-level inflation-adjusted per-unit UPL and post the per-unit UPL on the Board website.

C. Automatic Suspension.

(2) Board staff shall post notice of the automatic suspension on the Board website.

(3) The suspension shall be automatically lifted when the prescription drug product is identified as resolved by the federal Food and Drug Administration on the prescription drug shortage list.

(4) Board staff shall post notice of the lifting of the automatic suspension on the Board website.

(5) The automatic suspension and lifting of the suspension provided for in C(1) and (3) of this regulation are self-executing.

ANDREW W. YORK
Executive Director

Subtitle 17 MARYLAND CANNABIS ADMINISTRATION

Notice of Proposed Action

[26-078-P]

The Maryland Cannabis Administration proposes to:

(1) Amend Regulation .01 under COMAR 14.17.01 Definitions;

(2) Amend Regulation .05 under COMAR 14.17.05 Application Process and Issuance of Licenses;

(3) Amend Regulations .03 and .09 and adopt new Regulation .10 under COMAR 14.17.10 Cannabis Grower Operations;

(4) Amend Regulations .03 and .04 under COMAR 14.17.12 Cannabis Dispensary Operations;

(5) Adopt new Regulation .13 under COMAR 14.17.13 Cannabis Products;

(6) Amend Regulations .02 and .07 and adopt new Regulation .08 under COMAR 14.17.18 Finished Product Packaging; and

(7) Regulations .02 and .09 under COMAR 14.17.22 Hearing Procedures.

Statement of Purpose

The purpose of this action is to define the terms medical and therapeutic claims and sublingual pouch; allow conditional licensees to request up to two 6-month extensions based on certain criteria; establish minimum standards for licensed growers to protect the rights of the growers and employees; codify grower corrective and preventive action (CAPA) requirements; in alignment with requirements for standard dispensaries, require micro dispensaries to distribute certain point of sale materials to customers; add sublingual pouches as a new product category with associated product, packaging, and labeling requirements; remove plain packaging requirement and supplement existing restrictions on youth-appealing packaging; and establish discovery procedures under COMAR 14.17.22.09.

Estimate of Economic Impact

The proposed action has no economic impact.

Economic Impact on Small Businesses

The proposed action has minimal or no economic impact on small businesses.

Impact on Individuals with Disabilities

The proposed action has no impact on individuals with disabilities.

Opportunity for Public Comment

Comments may be sent to Alison Butler, Chief, Division of Policy Implementation, Maryland Cannabis Administration, 849 International Dr. Linthicum, MD, or call N/a, or email to [email protected]. Comments will be accepted through July 27, 2026. A public hearing has not been scheduled.

14.17.01 Definitions

Authority: Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis Article, 36-101, Annotated Code of Maryland

.01 Definitions.

A. (text unchanged)

B. Terms Defined

(1) (32) (text unchanged)

(32-1) Medical and therapeutic claim means any representation that indicates cannabis will improve, relieve, treat, diagnose, or prevent health conditions or any other ailment.

(33) (52) (text unchanged)

(52-1) Sublingual pouch means a permeable sachet containing cannabis concentrate that is intended to be dissolved in the mouth and absorbed buccally or sublingually.

(53) (58) (text unchanged)

14.17.05 Application Process and Issuance of Licenses

Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis Article, 36-202, 36-401, 36-404, and 36-505, Annotated Code of Maryland

.05 Issuance of a License or Rescission of a Conditional License.

A. In this regulation, the following terms have the meanings indicated.

B. Terms Defined:

(1) Good faith effort means:

(a) For an initial extension, demonstrating active interest in or legal control of or possession of a premises; and

(b) For a second extension, demonstrating legal control of or possession of a premises.

(2) Premises means a site that is suitable for cannabis license operations and complies with local planning and zoning requirements.

[A.] C. Conditional License Period.

(1) (2) (text unchanged)

(3) The Administration may:

(a) [approve] Approve [a one-time extension of] up to two requests for extensions of the conditional license period, each not to exceed 6 months, if the Administration determines the conditional licensee has made consistent good faith efforts to establish a cannabis business; and

(b) Use its discretion to determine that a conditional licensee has demonstrated consistent good faith effort if the conditional licensee provides adequate documentation that a political subdivision has unduly burdened its efforts toward becoming operational, as defined in Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis Article, 36-405, Annotated Code of Maryland.

(4) [For purposes of determining consistent good faith effort in A(3) of this regulation, the Administration:] Conditional License Extension Requests.

(a) [Will consider demonstrating control of a premises to indicate consistent good faith effort if the premises:

(i) Is suitable for the operations of the cannabis license; and

(ii) Complies with local planning and zoning requirements; and] The conditional licensee shall submit, in a manner determined by the Administration, documentation of active interest in a premise which shall identify the proposed site by address, include explicit use for a cannabis business, and be signed by the conditional licensee and the premises owner:

(i) A letter of intent;

(ii) An option to lease or purchase the proposed premises; or

(iii) Documentation evidencing permission to use a premises for cannabis purposes.

(b) [May use its discretion to determine that a conditional licensee has demonstrated consistent good faith effort if the conditional licensee provides adequate documentation that a political subdivision has unduly burdened its efforts toward becoming operational, as defined in Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis Article, 36-405, Annotated Code of Maryland.] The conditional licensee shall submit, in a manner determined by the Administration, documentation of control of or possession of a premise:

(i) A clear legal title to the proposed premises;

(ii) A fully executed and legally binding lease agreement; or

(iii) Other documentation evidencing the conditional licensee has control of or possession of a premise.

(5) (8) (text unchanged)

[B.] D. [F.]H. (text unchanged)

14.17.10 Cannabis Grower Operations

Authority: Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis Article, 36-202, 36-203, 36-401, 36-402, and 36-410, Annotated Code of Maryland

.03 Cannabis Grower Controls.

A. E. (text unchanged)

F. Corrective and Preventive Action.

(1) If a grower s test results indicate a failure rate as determined and published by the Administration, the grower shall:

(a) Conduct an investigation to determine the root cause of repeated tests outside action limits;

(b) Decontaminate all areas, including rooms, equipment, and surfaces used for cultivation;

(c) Provide, in the manner designated by the Administration:

(i) A report of the investigation; and

(ii) The licensee s plan to correct and prevent future contamination; and

(d) If applicable, update and implement standard operating procedures needed to ensure passing samples in the future.

(2) The Administration may require a grower to:

(a) Conduct further investigation; and

(b) Implement additional procedures to prevent future contamination.

.09 Standard Operating Procedures.

A. A grower shall establish written standard operating procedures in accordance with this subtitle to include all aspects of:

(1) (16) (text unchanged)

(17) Decontamination, including but not limited to:

(a) (b) (text unchanged)

(18) If applicable, co-locating with another licensee, including:

(a) (text unchanged)

(b) Maintaining independent and unique security video surveillance control[.];

(19) Prohibiting discrimination, harassment, and retaliation against an individual based on the individual s race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, military status, disability, or participation in protected activity pursuant to State Government Article, 20 606, Annotated Code of Maryland; and

(20) Prohibiting discrimination or retaliation against an employee for participation in protected activity pursuant to Labor and Employment Article, 5 604, Annotated Code of Maryland.

B. (text unchanged)

.10 Minimum Labor Standards.

A. A grower shall comply with all applicable federal, State, and local laws and regulations related to worker training, safety, health, and wages including, but not limited to:

(1) The Maryland Occupational Safety and Health Act, Labor and Employment Article, Title 5, Annotated Code of Maryland;

(2) 29 CFR Part 1928;

(3) 40 CFR Part 170;

(4) COMAR 09.12.20;

(5) COMAR 09.12.32;

(6) COMAR 15.05.01.02;

(7) Labor and Employment Article, 3-413, 3-415, and 3-420, Annotated Code of Maryland; and

(8) State Government Article, 20-601 611 and 20-801, Annotated Code of Maryland.

B. The Administration may require a licensed grower to conspicuously display information provided by the Administration about labor rights and occupational health and safety in English and in the primary language of any non-English speaking employee.

C. A grower shall maintain records related to trainings, assessments, and other documents demonstrating compliance with A of this regulation and make them available for Administration review.

14.17.12 Cannabis Dispensary Operations

Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis Article, 36-202, 36-203, 36-401, and 36-410, Annotated Code of Maryland

.03 Micro Dispensary.

A. D. (text unchanged)

E. Delivery Operations.

(1) (9) (text unchanged)

(10) The Administration may require a micro dispensary to provide or disseminate information related to health and safety, as provided by the Administration, in conjunction with each delivery order.

F. K. (text unchanged)

.04 Dispensary Operations.

A. Dispensing Medical Cannabis.

(1) (text unchanged)

(2) Before any distribution of medical cannabis, a dispensary agent shall query the Administration data network using a unique log-in that identifies the registered dispensary agent and verify:

(a) (text unchanged)

(b) That a certifying provider issued a valid written certification to the qualifying patient; and

(c) That the amount of medical cannabis that has already been dispensed, combined with the amount being dispensed in the current transaction, [pursuant to] does not exceed the allotted amount in the written certification[; and

(d) Whether a qualifying patient is actively enrolled in the Maryland Medical Assistance Program or in the Veterans Affairs Maryland Health Care System, and therefore, eligible for discounted medical cannabis pursuant to COMAR 14.17.04.06].

(3) (8) (text unchanged)

B. Dispensing Adult-Use Cannabis.

(1) (6) (text unchanged)

(7) Sales Limits.

(a) (text unchanged)

(b) For the purposes of calculating the personal use amount of cannabis that can be dispensed, an individual may not purchase [more than]:

(i) More than 1.5 ounces of usable cannabis products as defined in COMAR 14.17.01;

(ii) More than 12 grams of concentrated cannabis products; or

(iii) Edible cannabis products, capsules, and tinctures that [do not] exceed 750 milligrams of tetrahydrocannabinol.

(8) (10) (text unchanged)

C. E. (text unchanged)

14.17.13 Cannabis Products

Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis Article, 36-202, 36-203, and 36-203.1, Annotated Code of Maryland

.13 Sublingual Pouches.

A. A sublingual pouch may be sold to:

(1) Individuals 21 years old or older; or

(2) Qualifying patients and registered caregivers.

B. A sublingual pouch may only include:

(1) A cannabis concentrate; and

(2) Fillers, sweeteners, and other flavors or preservatives approved by the Administration.

C. Unless expressly authorized by the Administration, a sublingual pouch may not contain more than:

(1) 10 milligrams of THC per serving; and

(2) 100 milligrams of THC per package.

14.17.18 Finished Product Packaging

Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis Article, 36-202, 36-203, and 36-203.1, Annotated Code of Maryland

.02 General Packaging Requirements.

A. (text unchanged)

B. Packaging Requirements.

(1) All packaging of any cannabis product for retail sale shall be:

(a) (b) (text unchanged)

(2) (4) (text unchanged)

.07 Prohibited Packaging and Labeling.

A. Cannabis products packaging and labeling may not [bear] include any:

(1) [Image] Aspects that may appeal to minors, including but not limited to:

(a) (b) (text unchanged)

(c) Images, graphics, font styles, features, or likeness to images, graphics, font styles, or features that are popularly used to advertise to children, such as cartoons, animals, neon colors, celebrities, mascots, or phrases;

(d) Graphics that include the attribution of:

(i) Human characteristics to animals, plants, or other objects, or the similar use of anthropomorphic technique;

(ii) Animal, plant, or other object characteristics to humans; or

(iii) Unnatural or extra-human abilities or characteristics to humans, plants, animals, or other objects; or

(e) Sensory effects, including but not limited to texture, scent, or sound.

(2) (5) (text unchanged)

(6) [Claims regarding health or physical benefits to the consumer] Medical or therapeutic claims; or

(7) (text unchanged)

B. Labels, marketing layers, images, graphics, or any other aspect of the product package are prohibited from obscuring any warnings, statements, or information required under this chapter.

C. (text unchanged)

.08 Sublingual Pouch Packaging and Labeling.

A. Unless otherwise stated, packaging and labeling regulations under Regulations .02 .04 of this chapter apply to sublingual pouches.

B. A sublingual pouch package shall include the warning statement in C of this regulation in a manner that complies with COMAR 14.17.18.03B.

C. The warning statement shall read, Pouches are not intended to be heated, burned, or swallowed.

D. Each sublingual pouch shall be marked with the universal symbol in COMAR 14.17.18.03F(2).

F. If marking each pouch as described in D of this regulation is impractical, each individual pouch shall be individually wrapped with the universal symbol on the wrapper.

14.17.22 Hearing Procedures

Alcoholic Beverages and Cannabis Article, 36-202, Annotated Code of Maryland

.02 Definitions.

A. (text unchanged)

B. Terms Defined.

(1) (5) (text unchanged)

(6) Party means a licensee, registrant, selected applicant, or the [Administrative Prosecutor] Administration.

.09 Hearings.

A. (text unchanged)

B. Discovery.

(1) Discovery on Request. By written request filed with the hearing officer and served on other parties at least 20 calendar days before the scheduled hearing, a party may require another party to produce, within 15 calendar days:

(a) A list of witnesses to be called;

(b) Copies of documents intended to be produced at the hearings; and

(c) The name and curriculum vitae of any expert who will testify at the hearing.

(2) Stipulation of Discovery.

(a) By stipulation of the parties, filed not later than 30 calendar days before the scheduled hearing, a party may request documents, objects, or tangible items, including electronically stored information, for inspection and copying to be produced within 15 calendar days of the stipulation that is:

(i) Relevant to the subject matter of the case; and

(ii) Not privileged.

(b) If such a stipulation is entered, the hearing officer may issue such orders as are necessary to implement discovery.

(3) Parties are not entitled to discovery of items other than as listed in B(1) of this regulation or by stipulation as described in B(2) of this regulation.

(4) Parties may request governmental documents under the Maryland Public Information Act, State Government Article, Title 43, Annotated Code of Maryland.

(5) Unless provided by law or by agreement of the parties, no other discovery procedure may be required.

[B.] C. [E.] F. (text unchanged)

[F.] G. Hearings Conducted by Electronic Means.

(1) (3) (text unchanged)

(4) For a telephone, video, or other electronic hearing, the following may be considered a failure to appear and shall result in [the assessment or denial of the application for refund becoming final and not subject to appeal] a final order being issued by the Administration:

(a) (c) (text unchanged)

TABATHA ROBINSON
Director

Title 17
DEPARTMENT OF BUDGET AND MANAGEMENT

Subtitle 04 PERSONNEL SERVICES AND BENEFITS

17.04.11 Leave

Authority: State Personnel and Pensions Article 4-106, 9-101 and 9-1108 Annotated Code of Maryland.

Notice of Proposed Action

[26-077-P]

The Secretary of Budget and Management proposes to amend Regulation .31 under COMAR 17.04.11 Leave.

Statement of Purpose

The purpose of this action is to amend existing regulation to clarify how State agencies should manage the transition into PFML from the legacy Parental Leave program.

Estimate of Economic Impact

The proposed action has no economic impact.

Economic Impact on Small Businesses

The proposed action has minimal or no economic impact on small businesses.

Impact on Individuals with Disabilities

The proposed action has no impact on individuals with disabilities.

Opportunity for Public Comment

Comments may be sent to Misty Whitaker, Personnel Director, Department of Budget and Management, 301 W. Preston Street, Room 705, Baltimore, MD 21201, or call 410 767-4718, or email to [email protected]. Comments will be accepted through July 27, 2026. A public hearing has not been scheduled.

.31 Paid Family Medical Leave.

A. E. (text unchanged)

F. Amount of Leave.

(1) (2) (text unchanged)

(3) Parental Leave of Absence.

(a) Beginning on July 1, 2026, employees shall no longer be eligible for a parental leave of absence under COMAR 17.04.11.29.

(i) An employee approved for a parental leave of absence on or before June 30, 2026 under COMAR 17.04.11.29 shall be eligible to request PFML for the reasons set forth in State Personnel and Pensions Article, 9-1004(a)(1)(i), Annotated Code of Maryland, subject to the limitations in this subsection.

(b) Approval of PFML after Parental Leave of Absence.

(i) An employee approved for a parental leave of absence on or before June 30, 2026 who has not exceeded the 60-day parental leave of absence shall be approved by an appointing authority or their designee for PFML under State Personnel and Pensions Article, 9-1004(a)(1)(i), Annotated Code of Maryland, for the remaining eligibility of any parental leave of absence previously approved under COMAR 17.04.11.29.

(ii) An appointing authority or their designee shall count the number of days an employee used on a parental leave of absence between July 1, 2025 and June 30, 2026 against the amount of PFML an appointing authority or their designee may approve under State Personnel and Pensions Article, 9-1004(a)(1)(i), Annotated Code of Maryland, for the 12 month period following the first day of the parental leave of absence.

G. M. (text unchanged)

YAAKOV JAKE WEISSMANN

Secretary

Title 20
PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION

Subtitle 96 LARGE LOAD CUSTOMERS

20.96.01 Large Load Study and Tariff Requirements

Authority: Public Utilities Article, 4-212(f), Annotated Code of Maryland

Notice of Proposed Action

[26-021-P]

The Public Service Commission proposes to adopt new Regulations .01 .08 under a new chapter, COMAR 20.96.01 Large Load Study and Tariff Requirements, under a new subtitle, Subtitle 96 Large Load Customers. This action was considered by the Public Service Commission at a scheduled rule-making (RM 93) meeting held on February 4, 2026 notice of which was given under General Provisions Article, 3-302, Annotated Code of Maryland.

Statement of Purpose

The purpose of this action is to implement Public Utilities Article, 4-212(f), Annotated Code of Maryland.

Estimate of Economic Impact

The proposed action has no economic impact.

Economic Impact on Small Businesses

The proposed action has minimal or no economic impact on small businesses.

Impact on Individuals with Disabilities

The proposed action has no impact on individuals with disabilities.

Opportunity for Public Comment

Comments may be sent to Andrew S. Johnston, Executive Secretary, Public Service Commission, 6 St. Paul Street, 16th Floor, Baltimore, MD 21202, or call 410-767-8067, or email to [email protected]. Comments will be accepted through July 27, 2026. A public hearing has not been scheduled.

.01 Definitions.

A. In this subtitle, the following terms have the meanings indicated.

B. Terms Defined.

(1) Commission means the Maryland Public Service Commission.

(2) Contract capacity has the meaning stated in Public Utilities Article, 4-212(a), Annotated Code of Maryland.

(3) Electric company means an investor-owned electric company or an electric cooperative operating in the State of Maryland.

(4) Large load customer has the meaning stated in Public Utilities Article, 4-212(a), Annotated Code of Maryland.

(5) Load study means an initial analysis of the feasibility and timing of providing the requested retail services to the large load customer and shall include the following:

(a) The effects of interconnection on the utilities transmission and distribution systems over the contract period; and

(b) Consideration of other interconnection requests.

(6) Load ramp means a schedule for peak load until contract capacity is reached as mutually agreed to by an electric company and the large load customer.

(7) Municipal electric utility has the meaning stated in Public Utilities Article, 1-101(t), Annotated Code of Maryland.

.02 Load Study Request.

A. A large load customer shall submit a written load study request to the electric company or municipal electric utility in the form and format specified by the electric company or municipal electric utility.

B. If the large load customer submits the written load study request pursuant to the electric company or municipal electric utility s stated instructions, the large load customer has satisfied the requirement as described in COMAR 20.96.01.02A.

.03 Load Study Completeness Determination.

Within 30 calendar days after an electric company or a municipal electric utility receives a request for a load study, an electric company or a municipal electric utility shall:

(1) Determine that the request for a load study contains all required information and notify the large load customer, in writing, that the load study request has been deemed complete and the load study shall commence; or

(2) Determine that the request for a load study is incomplete and notify the large load customer, in writing, identifying the specific information needed for an electric company or a municipal electric utility to determine completeness.

(a) If the request for a load study is incomplete, the large load customer shall provide the additional information or otherwise cure the deficiency within 10 business days of receipt of the request for additional information;

(b) The large load customer and an electric company or a municipal electric utility may extend the response time under (2)(a) of this regulation by mutual agreement; and

(c) After the large load customer provides the additional information, the utility shall restart the completeness review.

.04 Load Study Agreement and Payment.

A. After an electric company or a municipal electric utility issues a completeness determination, an electric company or a municipal electric utility shall require the execution of a load study agreement.

B. The load study agreement shall specify the fee, deposit, or estimated cost of the load study.

C. The methodology for calculating the cost of the load study, which may involve a fee, deposit, actual cost, or estimated cost shall be stated in an electric company or a municipal electric utility tariff.

D. The large load customer shall pay the specified fee, deposit, or estimated cost prior to an electric company or a municipal electric utility commencing the load study.

E. An electric company or municipal electric utility shall complete the load study and provide a report to the large load customer not later than 18 months after:

(1) Execution of a load study agreement; and

(2) Receipt of the payment.

F. An electric company or a municipal electric utility and the large load customer may mutually agree in writing to an extension of time to complete an initial load study.

G. For good cause shown, an electric company or a municipal electric utility may submit a request for an extension to the Commission for the completion of an initial load study.

.05 Changes to Load Study Requests.

A. After a large load customer has received a determination of completeness from the electric company or municipal electric utility, the large load customer shall notify the electric company or municipal electric utility, in writing, of any change in requested service as soon as practicable.

B. The changes to a load study may include a change in:

(1) Peak load;

(2) Anticipated load factor;

(3) The timing of requested service;

(4) Load ramp period; and

(5) Point of interconnection.

C. The process for reviewing load study request changes shall be specified in the electric company or municipal electric utility tariff.

D. The electric company or municipal electric utility shall review the changes to all load study requests and determine completeness as described in COMAR 20.96.01.03.

E. If the electric company or municipal electric utility determines an additional load study is necessary, the electric company or municipal electric utility shall conduct the load study as described in COMAR 20.96.01.04.

.06 Contract Requirements.

A. A large load customer is subject to the contract terminations and adjustments as described in the electric company or municipal electric utility tariff and applicable service contract.

B. After the conclusion of the initial contract for service, if a large load customer wishes to adjust its contract capacity, the large load customer shall provide written notice to the electric company or municipal electric utility at least 1 year before the proposed adjustment unless otherwise specified in a tariff schedule or subsequent contract governing the terms of service for the large load customer.

C. A requested adjustment to a large load customer contract with an electric company or a municipal electric utility as described in this subtitle may require:

(1) A new load study; and

(2) Resubmission of the load study request under the requirements as described in this subtitle.

D. After the conclusion of the initial contract for service between a large load customer and an electric company or municipal electric utility, a large load customer may terminate its service contract by providing written notice to the electric company or municipal electric utility at least 1 year before the termination date unless otherwise specified in a tariff schedule or subsequent contract governing the terms of service for the large load customer.

.07 Collateral.

The electric company or municipal electric utility may require one or more of the following forms of collateral:

A. A letter of credit from a financial institution with investment-grade credit metrics;

B. A performance bond from a third-party issuer with investment-grade credit metrics;

C. A corporate guarantee from a parent company with an investment-grade credit rating; or

D. Cash.

.08 Waiver.

The Commission may waive a regulation in this subtitle for good cause shown.

ANDREW S. JOHNSTON
Executive Secretary

Special Documents

MARYLAND DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

MARYLAND HEALTH CARE COMMISSION

Subject: Proposed Bed Rights Acquisition at Montcare at Bethesda, Montcare at Potomac & Montcare at Wheaton

Add'l. Info: Proposed Bed Rights Acquisition at Montcare at Bethesda, Montcare at Potomac &; Montcare at Wheaton

The Maryland Health Care Commission (MHCC) reviews nursing home acquisitions to ensure they support Maryland s goals of health equity, increased access and better care. On June 5, 2026, MHCC accepted a complete application by Dov Green, Boruch Mermelstein, and Nachum Zager (parent company Montcare Healthcare, LLC) to purchase the bed rights at Montcare at Bethesda, Montcare at Potomac, and Montcare at Wheaton nursing home facilities.

Who s involved?

Montcare at Bethesda, Montcare at Potomac, and Montcare at Wheaton have been operated by the acquiring parties since 2023, with real property rights purchased in 2025.

Montcare at Bethesda is a five-star nursing home facility located at 6530 Democracy Blvd, Bethesda, Maryland. It has 110 licensed beds in private and semi-private rooms.

Currently 69% of its residents are enrolled in Medicaid. Montcare at Potomac is a five-star nursing home facility located at 10714 Potomac Tennis Lane, Potomac, Maryland. It has 168 licensed beds in private and semi-private rooms. Currently 43% of its residents are enrolled in Medicaid.

Montcare at Wheaton is a three-star nursing home facility located at 11901 Georgia Avenue, Wheaton, Maryland. It has 94 beds in private and semi-private rooms. Currently, 59% of its residents are enrolled in Medicaid.

Montcare Healthcare LLC is a business controlled by three individuals, Dov Green, Boruch Mermelstein, and Nachum Zager, who also own the operating rights and real property rights of the three facilities in this acquisition. One or more of these individuals also hold majority interests in one additional Maryland nursing home, Montgomery Village Care Center, 9 nursing homes in New Jersey, and lesser interests 6 nursing homes in Michigan. The operator and real property ownership will remain the same after this transaction, which is limited to the sale of bed

rights at these facilities.

About the deal

The deal is tentatively scheduled to occur no sooner than July 16, 2026. The applicants must post notice to the residents, their representatives, and staff no later than 60 days before the transaction will take place. If this deal proceeds, the three individuals named in this proposed acquisition notice will control the real property, operations, and bed rights.

mhcc.maryland.gov

After the acquisition, Montcare Healthcare, LLC will control 714 beds, or 15.6% of beds in Montgomery County. The applicants, who already operate these facilities, have stated they intend to continue serving residents across all payer sources and remain committed to complying

with all applicable Medicaid participation and access requirements.

What s Next?

MHCC is reviewing this deal to understand how it could affect the public interest for communities in Maryland. After completing the review, the Commission will issue a decision about whether the deal may proceed as planned.

We want to hear from you!

MHCC is inviting public comments from individuals who:

(i) reside in Montcare at Bethesda, Montcare at Potomac, and/or Montcare at Wheaton,

(ii) have family members who reside in

these facilities, or

(iii) are employed at these facilities.

All comments must be submitted to the Commission via [email protected]. For additional details, please visit the Commission s Public Comments page.

Please submit comments by July 3 to be considered during this review process.

For additional information, please contact Melissa Heitt, Senior Advisor at 443-844-7472.

Contact: Deanna Dunn 410-764-3276

[26-13-19]

DEPARTMENT OF THE ENVIRONMENT

SUSQUEHANNA RIVER BASIN COMMISSION

Projects Approved for Consumptive Uses of Water

AGENCY: Susquehanna River Basin Commission.

ACTION: Notice.

SUMMARY: This notice lists Approvals by Rule for projects by the Susquehanna River Basin Commission during the period set forth in DATES.

DATES: May 1 31, 2026.

ADDRESSES: Susquehanna River Basin Commission, 4423 North Front Street, Harrisburg, PA 17110-1788.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Jason E. Oyler, General Counsel and Secretary to the Commission, telephone: (717) 238-0423, ext. 1312; fax: (717) 238-2436; e-mail: [email protected]. Regular mail inquiries may be sent to the above address.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: This notice lists the projects, described below, receiving approval for the consumptive use of water pursuant to the Commission s approval by rule process set forth in 18 CFR 806.22 ( e ) and ( f ) for the time period specified above.

Approvals By Rule Issued Under 18 CFR 806.22(e):

1. SVC Manufacturing, Inc.; Gatorade - Mountaintop; ABR-202605001; Wright Township, Luzerne County, Pa.; Consumptive Use of Up to 1.3000 mgd; Approval Date: May 5, 2026.

Approvals by Rule - Issued Under 18 CFR 806.22(f):

1. MODIFICATION - Coterra Energy Inc.; Pad ID: ConboyT P1; ABR-202312002.1; Middletown Township, Susquehanna County, Pa.; Consumptive Use of Up to 6.5000 mgd; Approval Date: May 11, 2026.

2. RENEWAL - BKV Operating, LLC; Pad ID: Baker West (Brothers); ABR-201103049.R3; Forest Lake Township, Susquehanna County, Pa.; Consumptive Use of Up to 5.0000 mgd; Approval Date: May 11, 2026.

3. RENEWAL - Coterra Energy Inc.; Pad ID: LymanJ P1; ABR-201104018.R3; Springville Township, Susquehanna County, Pa.; Consumptive Use of Up to 5.0000 mgd; Approval Date: May 11, 2026.

4. RENEWAL - Expand Operating LLC; Pad ID: Noble Drilling Pad #1; ABR-201104015.R3; Lathrop Township, Susquehanna County, Pa.; Consumptive Use of Up to 7.5000 mgd; Approval Date: May 11, 2026.

5. RENEWAL - Expand Operating LLC; Pad ID: PU-CC Valentine-Price Pad; ABR-201104019.R3; Lenox Township, Susquehanna County, Pa.; Consumptive Use of Up to 7.5000 mgd; Approval Date: May 11, 2026.

6. RENEWAL - Pennsylvania General Energy Company, L.L.C.; Pad ID: Reed Run Norwich Pad D; ABR-201012028.R3; , County, .; Consumptive Use of Up to 3.5000 mgd; Approval Date: May 11, 2026.

7. RENEWAL - XTO Energy Inc.; Pad ID: Renn Unit A; ABR-201103033.R3; Jordan Township, Lycoming County, Pa.; Consumptive Use of Up to 4.0000 mgd; Approval Date: May 11, 2026.

8. RENEWAL - Coterra Energy Inc.; Pad ID: GeigerK P1; ABR-202105001.R1; Bridgewater Township, Susquehanna County, Pa.; Consumptive Use of Up to 5.0000 mgd; Approval Date: May 20, 2026.

9. RENEWAL - Expand Operating LLC; Pad ID: Broughton; ABR-201012001.R3; Morris Township, Tioga County, Pa.; Consumptive Use of Up to 7.5000 mgd; Approval Date: May 20, 2026.

10. RENEWAL - Expand Operating LLC; Pad ID: Crain; ABR-201104028.R3; Rome Township, Bradford County, Pa.; Consumptive Use of Up to 7.5000 mgd; Approval Date: May 20, 2026.

11. RENEWAL - Expand Operating LLC; Pad ID: Fausto; ABR-201101015.R3; Litchfield Township, Bradford County, Pa.; Consumptive Use of Up to 7.5000 mgd; Approval Date: May 20, 2026.

12. RENEWAL - Expand Operating LLC; Pad ID: Franclaire; ABR-201012011.R3; Braintrim Township, Wyoming County, Pa.; Consumptive Use of Up to 7.5000 mgd; Approval Date: May 20, 2026.

13. RENEWAL - Expand Operating LLC; Pad ID: Kingsley; ABR-201104029.R3; Smithfield Township, Bradford County, Pa.; Consumptive Use of Up to 7.5000 mgd; Approval Date: May 20, 2026.

14. RENEWAL - Expand Operating LLC; Pad ID: Martino Drilling Pad #1; ABR-201604001.R2; Albany Township, Bradford County, Pa.; Consumptive Use of Up to 7.5000 mgd; Approval Date: May 20, 2026.

15. RENEWAL - Pennsylvania General Energy Company, L.L.C.; Pad ID: COP Tract 293 Pad F; ABR-201105001.R3; Cummings Township, Lycoming County, Pa.; Consumptive Use of Up to 3.0000 mgd; Approval Date: May 20, 2026.

16. RENEWAL - XTO Energy Inc.; Pad ID: PA Tract B1H; ABR-201104023.R3; Chapman Township, Clinton County, Pa.; Consumptive Use of Up to 4.0000 mgd; Approval Date: May 20, 2026.

17. RENEWAL - Expand Operating LLC; Pad ID: Hi-Lev; ABR-201103051.R3; Troy Township, Bradford County, Pa.; Consumptive Use of Up to 7.5000 mgd; Approval Date: May 24, 2026.

18. RENEWAL - Expand Operating LLC; Pad ID: Hulslander; ABR-201104021.R3; Smithfield Township, Bradford County, Pa.; Consumptive Use of Up to 7.5000 mgd; Approval Date: May 24, 2026.

19. RENEWAL - Expand Operating LLC; Pad ID: Jones Pad; ABR-201103022.R3; Standing Stone Township, Bradford County, Pa.; Consumptive Use of Up to 7.5000 mgd; Approval Date: May 24, 2026.

20. RENEWAL - Expand Operating LLC; Pad ID: Kerrick Drilling Pad #1; ABR-201103040.R3; Asylum Township, Bradford County, Pa.; Consumptive Use of Up to 7.5000 mgd; Approval Date: May 24, 2026.

21. RENEWAL - Expand Operating LLC; Pad ID: Moody; ABR-201104027.R3; Springfield Township, Bradford County, Pa.; Consumptive Use of Up to 7.5000 mgd; Approval Date: May 24, 2026.

22. RENEWAL - Expand Operating LLC; Pad ID: Sarah; ABR-201103041.R3; Athens Township, Bradford County, Pa.; Consumptive Use of Up to 7.5000 mgd; Approval Date: May 24, 2026.

23. RENEWAL - Expand Operating LLC; Pad ID: Shoemaker-Saxe; ABR-202103004.R1; Colley Township, Sullivan County, Pa.; Consumptive Use of Up to 7.5000 mgd; Approval Date: May 24, 2026.

24. Expand Operating LLC; Pad ID: JANNEY BRA PAD; ABR-202605002; Monroe Township, Bradford County, Pa.; Consumptive Use of Up to 7.5000 mgd; Approval Date: May 26, 2026.

25. Expand Operating LLC; Pad ID: SGL-12 G UNIT PAD; ABR-202605003; Canton Township, Bradford County, Pa.; Consumptive Use of Up to 7.5000 mgd; Approval Date: May 26, 2026.

26. RENEWAL - Expand Operating LLC; Pad ID: Curtin Drilling Pad #1; ABR-201012034.R3; Albany and Cherry Townships, Bradford and Sullivan Counties, Pa.; Consumptive Use of Up to 7.5000 mgd; Approval Date: May 26, 2026.

27. RENEWAL - Expand Operating LLC; Pad ID: MPC New; ABR-201104030.R3; Cherry Township, Sullivan County, Pa.; Consumptive Use of Up to 7.5000 mgd; Approval Date: May 28, 2026.

28. RENEWAL - Expand Operating LLC; Pad ID: PMG Annie Drilling Pad #1; ABR-201103015.R3; Springville Township, Susquehanna County, Pa.; Consumptive Use of Up to 7.5000 mgd; Approval Date: May 28, 2026.

29. RENEWAL - Expand Operating LLC; Pad ID: Stempel; ABR-201104020.R3; Asylum Township, Bradford County, Pa.; Consumptive Use of Up to 7.5000 mgd; Approval Date: May 28, 2026.

30. RENEWAL - Expand Operating LLC; Pad ID: Taylor Drilling Pad #1; ABR-201104024.R3; Lenox Township, Susquehanna County, Pa.; Consumptive Use of Up to 7.5000 mgd; Approval Date: May 28, 2026.

31. RENEWAL - EXCO Resources (PA), LLC; Pad ID: Doebler Drilling Pad #1; ABR-201012033.R3; Penn Township, Lycoming County, Pa.; Consumptive Use of Up to 8.0000 mgd; Approval Date: May 29, 2026.

32. RENEWAL - Expand Operating LLC; Pad ID: Lomison Inc; ABR-201105023.R3; Burlington Township, Bradford County, Pa.; Consumptive Use of Up to 7.5000 mgd; Approval Date: May 29, 2026.

33. RENEWAL - Expand Operating LLC; Pad ID: LRJ; ABR-201105011.R3; Rush Township, Susquehanna County, Pa.; Consumptive Use of Up to 7.5000 mgd; Approval Date: May 29, 2026.

34. RENEWAL - Expand Operating LLC; Pad ID: Price Pad; ABR-201104017.R3; Lenox Township, Susquehanna County, Pa.; Consumptive Use of Up to 7.5000 mgd; Approval Date: May 29, 2026.

Authority: Public Law 91-575, 84 Stat. 1509 et seq., 18 CFR parts 806 and 808.

Dated: June 11, 2026

JASON E. OYLER,

General Counsel and Secretary to the Commission.

[26-13-12]

SUSQUEHANNA RIVER BASIN COMMISSION

Actions Taken at the June 4, 2026 Meeting

AGENCY: Susquehanna River Basin Commission

ACTION: Notice.

SUMMARY: As part of its regular business meeting held on June 4, 2026 in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, the Commission approved the applications of certain water resources projects and took additional actions, as set forth in the Supplementary Information below.

DATES: June 4, 2026.

ADDRESSES: Susquehanna River Basin Commission, 4423 N. Front Street, Harrisburg, PA 17110-1788.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Jason E. Oyler, General Counsel and Secretary, telephone: (717) 238-0423, ext. 1312, fax: (717) 238-2436; e-mail: joyler@srbc.gov. Regular mail inquiries may be sent to the above address. See also the Commission website at www.srbc.gov.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The Commission took the following actions at its June 4, 2026 business meeting: 1) adopted the FY2027 budget reconciliation; 2) approved a grant agreement with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency; 3) approved a grant amendment with the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection; 4) adopted the annual update to the 2025-2027 Water Resources Program; 5) extended an emergency certificate; and 6) acted on 15 regulatory program water projects, tabling two as listed below.

Project Applications Approved:

1. Project Sponsor and Facility: Aquaport, LLC, Old Lycoming Township, Lycoming County, Pa.

Application for groundwater withdrawal of up to 0.250 mgd (30-day average) from Well 1.

2. Project Sponsor and Facility: The Municipal Authority of the Borough of Berlin, Allegheny

Township, Somerset County, Pa. Applications for renewal of groundwater withdrawals (30-day

averages) of up to 0.220 mgd from Well 9 and 0.153 mgd from Well 10, consumptive use of up

to 0.498 mgd (peak day), and an out-of-basin diversion of up to 0.498 mgd (30-day average)

(Docket No. 19980702).

3. Project Sponsor and Facility: BKV Operating, LLC (Susquehanna River), Washington

Township, Wyoming County, Pa. Application for renewal with modification of surface water

withdrawal of up to 5.000 mgd (peak day) (Docket No. 20240603).

4. Project Sponsor and Facility: Cargill Meat Solutions Corporation, Wyalusing Township,

Bradford County, Pa. Applications for renewal of consumptive use of up to 0.080 mgd (peak day)

and groundwater withdrawals (30-day averages) of up to 0.500 mgd from River Well 6, 1.000 mgd

from River Well 7, and 0.500 mgd from River Well 8 (Docket No. 19990304).

5. Project Sponsor: Cedar Rock Materials Corporation. Project Facility: Bower Quarry, Salem

Township, Luzerne County, Pa. Application for renewal of groundwater withdrawal of up to 0.720

mgd (30-day average) from Well PW-1 (Docket No. 20110302).

6. Project Sponsor: Chobani, LLC. Project Facility: South Edmeston, Town of Columbus,

Chenango County, N.Y. Application for groundwater withdrawal of up to 0.756 mgd (30-day

average) from Well 4.

7. Project Sponsor: Constellation Energy Generation, LLC. Project Facility: Christopher M.

Crane Clean Energy Center, Londonderry Township, Dauphin County, Pa. Applications for

renewal with modification for surface water withdrawal of up to 73.200 mgd (peak day) from the

Susquehanna River, consumptive use of up to 21.000 mgd (peak day), and groundwater

withdrawals (30-day averages) of up to 0.072 mgd from Well A, 0.054 mgd from Well B, and

0.045 mgd from Well C (Docket No. 20221203).

8. Project Sponsor and Facility: Galeton Borough Authority, West Branch Township, Potter

County, Pa. Applications for groundwater withdrawals (30-day averages) of up to 0.072 mgd

from Wetmore Run Test Well 1 and 0.043 mgd from Wetmore Run Test Well 5.

9. Project Sponsor: Hazleton City Authority. Project Facility: Hazleton Division, Hazle

Township, Luzerne County, Pa. Applications for groundwater withdrawals (30-day averages) of

up to 0.223 mgd from Mount Pleasant Well 2, 0.432 mgd from Mount Pleasant Well 5, 0.468 mgd

from Mount Pleasant Well 6, and 0.108 mgd from Mount Pleasant Well 11.

10. Project Sponsor: KH Holdings, LLC. Project Facility: KH Spring Waters, LLC, North Union

Township, Schuylkill County, Pa. Application for consumptive use of up to 0.075 mgd (peak

day).

11. Project Sponsor: Nature s Way Purewater Systems, Inc. Project Facility: USHydrations

Dupont Bottling Plant, Dupont Borough, Luzerne County, Pa. Application for renewal of

consumptive use of up to 0.449 mgd (30-day average) (Docket No. 20230319).

12. Project Sponsor: New Enterprise Stone & Lime Co., Inc. Project Facility: Lewisburg Quarry,

Buffalo Township, Union County, Pa. Applications for surface water withdrawal of up to 0.300

mgd (peak day) from Buffalo Creek and renewal of consumptive use of up to 0.181 mgd (30-day

average) (Docket No. 20040906).

13. Project Sponsor and Facility: PPG Operations LLC (West Branch Susquehanna River),

Goshen Township, Clearfield County, Pa. Application for renewal of surface water withdrawal

of up to 3.000 mgd (peak day) (Docket No. 20240319).

Projects Tabled:

14. Project Sponsor and Facility: Middlesex Township Municipal Authority, Middlesex

Township, Cumberland County, Pa. Application for groundwater withdrawal of up to 0.914 mgd

(30-day average) from Well 2.

15. Project Sponsor: New Enterprise Stone & Lime Co., Inc. Project Facility: Tyrone Quarry,

Snyder Township, Blair County, and Warriors Mark Township, Huntingdon County, Pa.

Application for surface water withdrawal of up to 0.216 mgd (peak day) from Logan Spring Run

and modification to add Logan Spring Run as a source for consumptive use (Docket

No. 20220611).

Extension of Emergency Certificate:

1. Project Sponsor and Facility: Village of Sidney, Delaware County, N.Y. Request for extension

and continued temporary operation under Emergency Certificate issued December 31, 2025,

authorizing temporary extension of the approval term of Docket Nos. 19860201 and 19860201-3

for Well 2-88.

Authority: Public Law 91-575, 84 Stat. 1509 et seq.,18 CFR parts 806, 807, and 808.

Dated: June 11, 2026

JASON E. OYLER

General Counsel and Secretary to the Commission

[26-13-13]

WATER AND SCIENCE ADMINISTRATION

Notice Of Tentative Determination And Public Hearing

General Permit for DISCHARGES FROM TANKS, PIPES, OTHER LIQUID CONTAINMENT STRUCTURES, DEWATERING ACTIVITIES, AND GROUNDWATER REMEDIATION

The Department proposes to reissue the State/NPDES (National Pollution Discharge Elimination System) permit 17HT (NPDES No. MDG67) as the new 25HT. The 25HT permit applies to discharges of wastewater from tanks, pipes, other liquid containment structures, dewatering activities, and groundwater remediation in the state of Maryland.

The permit requires specific control measures and limitations at the facility based on the type of discharge. When the permit is formally adopted, industries currently covered by the 17HT permit will have 6 months to file a notice of intent (NOI) and fee payment to the Department to obtain coverage under the reissued permit.

The proposed permit requires the effluent from each type of discharge regulated by the permit to meet specific numerical and narrative limits. The proposed permit also requires monitoring and online electronic submission of Discharge Monitoring Reports. For the 25HT permit, the Department is also proposing several changes from the 17HT, which include:

* Expansion of the requirement for a Pollution Prevention Plan (PPP) to include all types of discharge regulated by the permit. Prior iterations of this permit required a PPP for discharges subject to numeric effluent limitations, which may pollute via erosion or have the potential to cause an in-stream exceedance of a water quality standard. This requirement will ensure that all permittees are establishing and documenting necessary treatment methods in advance and tracking the performance of those methods in actual practice;

* Clarifying language on limitations on coverage regarding filter backwash and firefighting foam. Water treatment systems that perform filter backwashing are covered under individual permits. As the permit covers discharges from fire control systems, the Department is clarifying that discharges containing firefighting foam are not permitted under this permit, as they have the potential to contain PFAS;

* Expansion of Category D (groundwater remediation) to include the remediation of groundwater contaminated by metals (pursuant to a regulation change to COMAR 26.08.04.09 K(2)). This will streamline the permitting process for discharges currently regulated by individual permits under a standard set of requirements;

* Clarifying language in Category D regarding notification to the Department if there is an environmental covenant, consent decree, or other agreement related to the site that is applying for discharge coverage. This is to ensure that any separate agreement with the State is compatible with the 25HT;

* Introduction of limitations for PFAS added to Discharge Category D (non-detect levels). This inclusion allows the Department to require PFAS testing of the groundwater before application approval and permit issuance if it is determined that PFAS may be a pollutant of concern. Any discharges of remediated groundwater must meet non-detect limits using EPA Test Method 1633A (or the most current iteration approved by the Department);

* Modification of monitoring frequency under Discharge Category D. The revised monitoring schedule is similar to the typical requirements for individual permits to regulate the discharge of remediated groundwater.

* Clarifying language updates in Category E (discharges from fire control systems) to include fire hydrants that are not already connected to potable water systems and covered under Category B; and

Finally, besides minor language and formatting changes to the 25HT, all other terms and conditions remain largely unchanged from the 17HT permit.

ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE - Master general permits are applicable across the state of Maryland. Since they are not associated with a specific location, they are not subject to MD Environmental Article 1 602(a)(2). Thus, an Environmental Justice score cannot be calculated.

WRITTEN COMMENTS - Written comments concerning the tentative determination will be considered in the preparation of a final determination if submitted to the Department by 5:00 PM at the address below, on or before August 13, 2026. The draft permit is available on MDE s website and can be found at https://mdewwp.page.link/HTGP during the above comment period. Any questions should be directed to the Maryland Department of the Environment, Water Management Administration, 1800 Washington Blvd., Ste. 455, Baltimore, MD 21230-1708, Attn: Jonathan Rice, Industrial and General Permits Division, at Jonathan.Rice@Maryland.gov, or by telephone at 410-537-3323 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Copies of the document may be obtained for $0.36 per page.

PUBLIC HEARING - For communication purposes, we encourage all interested individuals to register via the virtual event link below.

A hybrid hearing has been scheduled for Monday, July 27, 2026, beginning at 4 PM. (A backup hearing has been scheduled for Monday, August 24, 2026, beginning at 4 PM.) The in-person hearing will be held in the Owings Mills Meeting Room at the Owings Mills Branch of the Baltimore County Public Library, located at the County Campus Metro Center at Owings Mills, 10302 Grand Central Avenue, Owings Mills, Maryland 21117.

The virtual event may be joined via Google Meet. To participate online, you MUST register using the following link: https://mdewwp.page.link/PublicMeetings. There is also a phone listen-only option. Those who want to monitor the virtual hearing in listen-only mode can call +1 929-324-9522 and enter this PIN: ‪616 337 826#.

The in-person meeting location is accessible to individuals with disabilities as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Individuals who require reasonable accommodation or a language interpreter to participate in the event should contact MDE by email at [email protected] or call 410-537-3152 (MD Relay TTY: 7-1-1) at least 5 business days in advance of the event.

Any hearing-impaired person may request an interpreter for the event by contacting the Office of Fair Practices at (410) 537-3964 at least ten working days before the scheduled hearing date. TTY users should contact the Maryland Relay Service at 1-800-201-7165.

[26-13-10]

WATER AND SCIENCE ADMINISTRATION

Notice Of Tentative Determination And Public Hearing

General Permit for DISCHARGES FROM THE APPLICATION OF PESTICIDES

The Department proposes to reissue the State/NPDES (National Pollution Discharge Elimination System) 17PE (NPDES No. MDG87) General Discharge Permit from the Application of Pesticides with the renewal designation of 25PE. The 25PE permit applies to discharges to Waters of this State from the application of biological pesticides, chemical pesticides that leave a residue, or colorants, when the application of pesticides or colorants is for Mosquito and Other Flying Insect Pest Control, Weed and Algae Control, Nuisance Animal Control, or Forest Canopy Pest Control.

The permit requires specific control measures and limitations at the application area based on the pattern of discharge. When the permit is formally adopted, decision-makers currently covered by the 17PE permit will have 6 months to file a notice of intent (NOI) with the Department to obtain coverage under the reissued permit, if the area of application is over specific size thresholds specified in the permit, or if it will potentially impact desirable species, or if it is for submerged aquatic vegetation (SAVs) in tidal waters.

The proposed permit continues the 17PEs narrative standards, which had been established for each specific type of discharge regulated, in addition to specific water quality-based limits for copper-based products and discharges to protected drinking water sources. The permit also relies on protections provided under FIFRA (The Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act), which are regulated by the Maryland Department of Agriculture, including the licensing of applicators.

The permit also requires a Pesticide Discharge Management Plan (PDMP) for Large Entities. It contains reporting and record-keeping requirements for both Decision-makers and Applicators including adverse incidents.

Significant Revisions

* The structure and some language have been updated to ensure it continues to be consistent with State and Federal law and includes changes in organization to improve readability.

* The "Failure to Notify" condition was introduced to emphasize the requirement for coverage; otherwise, the permittee is considered in violation for operating without a valid permit.

* Language was added to reiterate and emphasize certain conditions, such as DNR conditions and prohibitions, monitoring requirements, FIFRA compliance, and requirements for discharges to impaired waters.

* Direct references to Toxic Material Permits (TMP) have been removed, but language maintaining consistency with State TMP regulations has been continued.

* Research and development whose discharge may expose desirable species has been added to those who must submit an NOI.

* Language was added to provide better details for applicants, identifying what information should be included with an NOI and what supporting documents are needed.

* Pesticide Discharge Management Plans (PDMPs) are now required to be submitted along with the NOI for all large entities, regardless of treatment area size.

* The requirement to outline visual monitoring procedures in the PDMP has been added.

* Narrative water quality-based effluent limits have been added to maintain consistency with State regulations and the EPA's 2026 Pesticide General Permit (PGP).

* Language to address water utility notification for treatments to drinking water has been added.

* PFAS water quality-based effluent limit requirements, including the implementation of Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) and Aquatic Life Criteria, assurance plans, and monitoring plans, have been added.

The other requirements of the 25-PE remain unchanged from the 17-PE.

WRITTEN COMMENTS - Written comments concerning the tentative determination will be considered in the preparation of a final determination if submitted to the Department at the address below, on or before August 13, 2026. The draft permit is available on MDE s website and can be found at https://mdewwp.page.link/PEGP during the above comment period. Any questions should be directed to the Maryland Department of the Environment, Water Management Administration, 1800 Washington Blvd., Ste. 455, Baltimore, MD 21230-1708, Attn: Paul Hlavinka, Industrial Stormwater Permits Division, at [email protected], or by telephone at 410-537-3323 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Copies of the document may be obtained for $0.36 per page.

PUBLIC HEARING - For communication purposes, we encourage all interested individuals to register via the virtual event link below.

The in-person meeting location is accessible to individuals with disabilities as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Individuals who require reasonable accommodation or a language interpreter to participate in the meeting should contact MDE by email at [email protected] or call 410-537-3152 (MD Relay TTY: 7-1-1) at least 5 business days in advance of the meeting.

[26-13-09]

DEPARTMENT OF STATE POLICE

HANDGUN ROSTER BOARD

Proposed Additions to Handgun Roster and Notice of Right to Object or Petition

The following is a list of handguns that the Handgun Roster Board proposes to add to the official handgun roster. These handguns will be officially placed on the Handgun Roster if no timely objection is received or if all timely objections are dismissed.

Under the Public Safety Article, 5-405, Annotated Code of Maryland and COMAR 29.03.03.13 and .14, any person may object to the placement of any of those handguns on the Handgun Roster. Objections must be filed within 30 days after June 26, 2026. In addition, any person may petition for the placement of an additional handgun on the Handgun Roster. Forms for objections or petitions may be obtained from: Rachel Rosenberg, Administrator, Handgun Roster Board, 1201 Reisterstown Road, Baltimore, Maryland 21208 (Phone: 410-653-4247).

Make	Model	Caliber	Additional Comments
GARAYSAR	FEAR-114	12 Gauge	Model addition
BRUGGER & THOMET (BRUGGER & THOMET USA)	APC45K Pro Pistol	45 ACP	Model addition
HARRINGTON & RICHARDSON	DOE Pistol	9 mm	Model addition
BRUGGER & THOMET (BRUGGER & THOMET USA)	SPC9 SD Tele Pistol	9 mm	Model addition
BRUGGER & THOMET (BRUGGER & THOMET USA)	SPC9 SD G Pistol	9 mm	Model addition
ALPHA FOXTROT	AF1911 ROMULUS COMP	9 mm	Model addition
Nexus Firearms	Nexus Evo Gen 1	9 mm	Model addition
Nexus Firearms	Nexus Evo Gen 1 X-SD	9 mm	Model addition
F. TANFOGLIO (ITALIAN FIREARMS GROUP)	Stock III Special	10 mm, 9 mm	Model addition
TISAS (SDS IMPORTS)	M1911 A1 U.S. ARMY	45 ACP	Model addition
CIMARRON ARMS (PIETTA)	Hollywood Rooster Shooter	45 Colt	Model addition
GLOCK	17 GEN 6	9 mm
GLOCK	19 GEN 6	9 mm
GLOCK	45 GEN 6	9 mm
ZASTAVA (HKI)	M1983/1989	357 Mag
BOND ARMS	TEXAS DEFENDER (WITH TRIGGER GUARD)	22 Mag	Caliber addition
F. LLI PIETTA	Copper Canyon 1873	357 Mag/38 Spl	Model addition
WILSON COMBAT	EDC X9 Black Edition	9 mm	Model addition
ROBINSON ARMAMENT	XCR-M Pistol	8.6 BLACKOUT, 308 Win, 6.5 Creedmoor, 243 Win, 260 Rem
CHIAPPA FIREARMS	1911 EMPIRE	45 ACP	Model addition
COLT/COLTS MFG. CO., INC.	Custom Carry Government	45 ACP	Model addition
SIG SAUER/SIGARMS INC.	P226 X LEGION	9 mm	Model addition
SIG SAUER/SIGARMS INC.	P226 X LEGION SAO	9 mm	Model addition
ROSSI	M711	357 Mag	Model addition
STACCATO	Staccato HD C4X	9 mm	Model addition
FUSION FIREARMS, INC. [ERMOX]	XP Pro Comp & Ported	9 mm	Model addition
FN AMERICA LLC	FN 509 MRD-LE	9 mm	Model addition
KIMBER	2K11 COMP	9 mm	Model addition
ROCK ISLAND ARMORY	M1911 TAC Ultra MS	10 mm	Model addition
SONS OF LIBERTY GUN WORKS	MK1 Pistol	5.56 NATO	Model addition
PTR	The Jack	12 Gauge	Model addition
DIKAR (CVA)	SCOUT V2	223 Rem	Caliber addition
HI POINT FIREARMS	C9 YEET Cannon G1	9 mm	Model addition
BERETTA USA	92G Elite LTT II	9 mm	Model addition
IMP (C.A.I.)	PHP MV	9 mm
ALDO UBERTI & CO. (CIMARRON ARMS)	MODEL 3 SCHOFIELD	45 Colt, 45 Schofield	Model addition
HANOVER ARMORY	HA-15	6mm ARC	Caliber addition
HANOVER ARMORY	HA-15	338 ARC	Caliber addition
HANOVER ARMORY	HA-10	8.6 BLACKOUT	Caliber addition
SMITH & WESSON	20 Heavy Duty	357 Mag	Model addition
Mitchell Defense LLC	MD15 Pistol	300 BLK, 6mm ARC, 338 ARC, 5.56 NATO, 223 Rem
Mitchell Defense LLC	MD9 Pistol	9 mm
TISAS (MILITARY ARMAMENT CORPORATION)	ZIG M1911 MEUSOC	45 ACP	Model addition
KORTH (NIGHTHAWK CUSTOM)	NXR Hunter	44 Mag	Model addition
KORTH (NIGHTHAWK CUSTOM)	NXA	357 Mag/9 mm	Model addition
KORTH (NIGHTHAWK CUSTOM)	Heritage Edition	357 Mag/9 mm	Model addition
KORTH (NIGHTHAWK CUSTOM)	Callahan	44 Mag	Model addition
KORTH (NIGHTHAWK CUSTOM)	2.75" Carry Special	357 Mag/9 mm	Model addition
NIGHTHAWK CUSTOM	Kestrel	9 mm/45 ACP	Model addition
NIGHTHAWK CUSTOM	Single Stack Sand Hawk	9 mm	Model addition
NIGHTHAWK CUSTOM	Shadow Hawk Long Slide	45 ACP	Model addition
NIGHTHAWK CUSTOM	Shadow Hawk Government	9 mm/45 ACP	Model addition
NIGHTHAWK CUSTOM	Falcon Commander	9 mm/45 ACP	Model addition
NIGHTHAWK CUSTOM	GI Plus	45 ACP	Model addition
NIGHTHAWK CUSTOM	VIP Black Commander	45 ACP	Model addition
NIGHTHAWK CUSTOM	Envoy	9 mm/45 ACP	Model addition
NIGHTHAWK CUSTOM	Agent 2 Commander	9 mm/45 ACP	Model addition
NIGHTHAWK CUSTOM	Alpha Hawk	9 mm/45 ACP	Model addition
NIGHTHAWK CUSTOM	War Hawk Commander	9 mm/45 ACP	Model addition
NIGHTHAWK CUSTOM	VIP Silver	9 mm/45 ACP	Model addition
BOND ARMS	America 250th	45 LC/410 BORE	Model addition
BOND ARMS	America 250th Black Cerakote Version	45 LC/410 BORE	Model addition
BERETTA USA	92XI SAO Tactical	9 mm	Model addition
ARMSCOR PHILIPPINES-ROCK ISLAND ARMORY (ARMSCOR PRECISION INTERNATIONAL)	M1911 A1 FS-TACT	45 ACP	Caliber addition
ADAMS ARMS	AA-19	9 mm	Model addition
MKE (CENTURY ARMS)	AP5-N "Navy"	9 mm	Model addition
GEISSELE AUTOMATICS	Super Duty MOD1-A Pistol	5.56 NATO	Model addition
SAVAGE ARMS	516BSAK/BSS SUPER STRIKER	7mm-08 Rem	Model addition
SMITH & WESSON	PERFORMANCE CENTER M&P 9 M2.0 FULL SIZE CARRY COMP	9 mm	Model addition
MKE (CENTURY ARMS)	AP53 Pistol	5.56x45mm NATO	Model addition
PALMETTO STATE ARMORY	Sabre Enhanced Mixtape Volume 1	300 BLK	Model addition
SIG SAUER/SIGARMS INC.	P239 SAS	357 Sig, 40 S&W, 9 mm	Model addition
BERETTA (BERETTA USA)	80X Cheetah Tactical	32 ACP	Model addition
BERETTA (BERETTA USA)	80X CHEETAH	32 ACP	Caliber addition
Q	Boombox Pistol	8.6 BLACKOUT	Model addition
F. TANFOGLIO (ITALIAN FIREARMS GROUP)	Stock III Special	38 SA, 40 S&W, 45 ACP	Caliber addition
STURM RUGER	NEW MODEL SINGLE SIX	32 H&R Mag	Caliber addition
SIG SAUER/SIGARMS INC.	P938 BRG	9 mm	Model addition
SIG SAUER/SIGARMS INC.	P365 DH3 AXG	9 mm	Model addition
KIMBER	1911 DS Warrior	10 mm
KIMBER	1911 DS Warrior	9 mm
KIMBER	1911 DS Warrior	38 Super, 45 ACP	Caliber addition
CITADEL	Centurion CP9	9 mm	Model addition
SPRINGFIELD ARMORY/INC. (HS PRODUKT)	ECHELON COMPACT COMP	9 mm	Model addition
KIMBER	2K11 Pro Comp	9 mm	Model addition
Bersa USA	M2XI	9 mm
SARSILMAZ (SAR USA)	SAR 7/24 Full Size	9 mm	Model addition
SARSILMAZ (SAR USA)	SAR 7/24 Compact	9 mm	Model addition
SARSILMAZ (SAR USA)	SAR 7/24 Sport	9 mm	Model addition
PATRIOT ORDNANCE FACTORY, INC (POF)	P-15	300 BLK, 5.56 NATO, 350 LEGEND	Model addition
LODESTAR TECHNOLOGY, INC.	LNK9	9 mm
TAURUS ARMAS (TAURUS INTERNATIONAL MFG.)	850	38 Spl	Model addition
TISAS	PX-9 Carry Raptor Comp	9 mm	Model addition
GIRSAN (EAA)	Witness2311C CMX	9 mm	Model addition
SMITH & WESSON	PERFORMANCE CENTER M&P 10MM M2.0 FULL SIZE CARRY COMP	10 mm	Model addition
APF Armory	APF-15 Pistol	300 BLK
CITADEL	M1911 A1-MS	45 ACP
TAURUS ARMAS (TAURUS INTERNATIONAL MFG.)	608C	357 Mag
CANIK USA	Prime Radian	9 mm	Model addition
SIG SAUER/SIGARMS INC.	P211-GTO EQUINOX	9 mm	Model addition
INGLIS MANUFACTURING (SDS IMPORTS)	2035	9 mm	Model addition
BUL LTD (MAGNUM RESEARCH)	BABY DESERT EAGLE III Full Size	9 mm	Model addition
BUL LTD (MAGNUM RESEARCH)	BABY DESERT EAGLE III Semi-Compact	9 mm	Model addition
BUL ARMORY (BUL ARMORY USA, LLC)	AXE C	9 mm	Model addition
BUL ARMORY (BUL ARMORY USA, LLC)	AXE C PRO	9 mm	Model addition
BUL ARMORY (BUL ARMORY USA, LLC)	AXE FS	9 mm	Model addition
BUL ARMORY (BUL ARMORY USA, LLC)	AXE FS PRO	9 mm	Model addition
PATRIOT ORDNANCE FACTORY	Phoenix	9 mm	Model addition
ENGAGE ARMAMENT LLC	MoCoAlamo Pistol	5.56 NATO
SIG SAUER/SIGARMS INC.	P365-FUSE COMP	9 mm	Model addition
PALMETTO STATE ARMORY	Guardsman-15 Pistol	300 BLK	Model addition
SIG SAUER/SIGARMS INC.	P211-GT5	9 mm
GIRSAN (EAA)	Witness2311C CMXX	10 mm, 45 ACP, 9 mm	Model addition
CZ (SOUTHERN TACTICAL)	CZ 75 Semicompact	9 mm	Model addition
SMITH & WESSON	Performance Center Equalizer Carry Comp	9 mm	Model addition
CMMG, INC.	DISSENT MK4	5.7X28 mm	Caliber addition
HECKLER & KOCH (HECKLER & KOCH INC.)	VP9CC	9 mm
SMITH & WESSON	BODYGUARD 38 2.0	38 S&W SPL +P	Model addition
SMITH & WESSON	BODYGUARD 38 2.0 INTEGRATED CRIMSON TRACE LASER	38 S&W SPL +P	Model addition
SMITH & WESSON	M&P 9 M2.0 METAL HD NO THUMB SAFETY	9 mm	Model addition
SMITH & WESSON	M&P 9 M2.0 METAL HD THUMB SAFETY	9 mm	Model addition
SMITH & WESSON	Performance Center M&P 9 M2.0 COMPETITOR HD NO THUMB SAFETY	9 mm	Model addition
SMITH & WESSON	Performance Center M&P 9 M2.0 COMPETITOR HD THUMB SAFETY	9 mm	Model addition
SMITH & WESSON	SPEC SERIES VI M&P 9 M2.0 METAL COMPACT	9 mm	Model addition
SMITH & WESSON	SPEC SERIES R MODEL 686 PLUS NO LOCK	357 Mag	Model addition
BUL ARMORY (BUL ARMORY USA, LLC)	SAS II BLAZE	9 mm	Model addition
BUL ARMORY (BUL ARMORY USA, LLC)	SOF	9 mm	Model addition
BUL ARMORY (BUL ARMORY USA, LLC)	SOF PRO	9 mm	Model addition
KIMBER	Next Generation Stainless 1911	45 ACP, 9 mm	Model addition
FUSION FIREARMS, INC. [ERMOX]	XP Pro XP 3C Black	9 mm	Model addition
FUSION FIREARMS, INC. [ERMOX]	XP Pro XP 3C Black Thumb Ledge	9 mm	Model addition
FUSION FIREARMS, INC. [ERMOX]	XP Pro XP 3C Chrome Ambi Thumb Ledge	9 mm	Model addition
CANIK (CANIK USA)	METE MC9LS SIGNATURE SERIES DRIP	9 mm	Model addition
JACOB GREY	Hex Pro	9 mm	Model addition
KEL-TEC	KP50 Pistol	5.7X28 mm	Model addition
SIG SAUER/SIGARMS INC.	P211-GT4	9 mm	Model addition
SPRINGFIELD ARMORY/INC.	Model 2020 Heatseeker Pistol	308 Win	Model addition
SPRINGFIELD ARMORY/INC.	SAINT VICTOR PDW	9 mm	Caliber addition
ALPHA FOXTROT	Attila Compact	9 mm	Model addition
CZ (CZ USA)	CZ TS3 Orange	9 mm	Model addition
CHIAPPA FIREARMS (Chiappa Firearms USA)	RHINO 60DS L-Frame	44 Rem Mag	Model addition
FOWLER INDUSTRIES	Vanta 9 Ported	9 mm	Model addition
OA DEFENSE	2311 Compact Pro Elite	9 mm	Model addition
STEALTH ARMS	1911 Platypus Comp	9 mm	Model addition
TARAN TACTICAL INNOVATIONS	Viper	9 mm	Model addition
TAURUS ARMAS (TAURUS INTERNATIONAL MFG.)	RPC Pistol	9 mm	Model addition
FN AMERICA LLC	FN 309 MRD	9 mm	Model addition
WALTHER ARMS	PDP F-Series Pro-X PMM	9 mm	Model addition
AUTO ORDNANCE	Bootlegger 1911	45 ACP	Model addition
SMITH & WESSON	SW40V	40 S&W	Model addition
MILLER PRECISION FIREARMS	RANGER 9X	9 mm	Model addition
MOSSBERG	590RM	12 Gauge	Model addition
COLT'S PT. F.A. MFG. CO.	Colt Defender Lightweight	45 ACP	Model addition
CENTURY ARMS, INTERNATIONAL	MICRO DRACO	7.62X39mm	Model addition
GLOCK	17T GEN 5	9 MM TRAINING (FX OR FOF)
Finks Custom Gunsmithing	Gunsite Performance Pistol Double Stack Pro	9 mm
L.W. Seecamp Co.	LWS-25	25 ACP
CZ USA	SHADOW 2 SA	9 mm
ALCHEMY CUSTOM WEAPONRY	Restomod Series	45 ACP, 9 mm	Model addition
JESSE JAMES FIREARMS UNLIMITED	Cisco Especial	45 ACP	Model addition
SMITH & WESSON	Performance Center 586 L-Comp	357 Mag	Model addition
WILSON COMBAT	Division 77 Project 1 Ghost Edition	9 mm	Model addition
WILSON COMBAT	EXPERIOR ELITE	45 ACP, 9 mm	Model addition
MANURHIN	MR 22 Match	22 LR	Model addition
MANURHIN	MR 32 Match	32 S&W Long	Model addition
MANURHIN	MR 73 Match	357 Mag/38 Spl	Model addition
STP Prommersberger (DOT40 LLC)	Perfect Classic 5.4	45 ACP	Model addition
SARSILMAZ (SAR USA)	SAR9CLTX	9 mm	Model addition
SARSILMAZ (SAR USA)	SR38	38 Spl, 357 Mag	Model addition
SMITH & WESSON	36 CLASSIC	38 Spl	Model addition
SPRINGFIELD ARMORY/INC. (HS PRODUKT)	XD Mod.4	9 mm	Model addition
ROST MARTIN	RM1F	9 mm	Model addition
NOVESKE RIFLEWORKS, LLC	N 4	300 BLK	Caliber addition
SAVAGE ARMS	110 PCS	400 Legend	Caliber addition
Mountain Billy Gun Lab, LLC	GOAT-15 Pistol	22 LR
CHARTER ARMS	Double Dog	357 Mag, 9 mm, 38 Spl	Model addition
AMERICAN PRECISION FIREARMS (ARSENAL FIREARMS)	Strike Two Compact	9 mm	Model addition
SIG SAUER/SIGARMS INC.	P230SL	380 ACP	Model addition
SIG SAUER/SIGARMS INC.	P365-FUSE TACOPS	9 mm	Model addition
SIG SAUER/SIGARMS INC.	P226 X-FIVE NIGHTMARE	9 mm	Model addition
SIG SAUER/SIGARMS INC.	P226 X-FIVE EXTREME	9 mm	Model addition

[26-13-07]

General Notices

Notice of ADA Compliance

The State of Maryland is committed to ensuring that individuals with disabilities are able to fully participate in public meetings. Anyone planning to attend a meeting announced below who wishes to receive auxiliary aids, services, or accommodations is invited to contact the agency representative at least 48 hours in advance, at the telephone number listed in the notice or through Maryland Relay.

CHESAPEAKE BAY TRUST

Subject: Public Meeting

Date and Time: July 29, 2026, 11:30 a.m. 1 p.m.

Place: 108 Severn Avenue, Annapolis

Contact: Office Manager 410-974-2941

[26-13-02]

CHESAPEAKE BAY TRUST

Subject Public Meeting

Date and Time: September 18, 2026, 10 a.m. 12p.m.

Place: 101 N Harbor Rd, St. Michaels, MD

Contact: Office Manager 410-974-2941

[26-13-05]

CHESAPEAKE BAY TRUST

Subject Public Meeting

Date and Time: February 17, 2027, 3 6 p.m.

Place: 108 Severn Ave., Annapolis

Contact: Office Manager 410-974-2941

[26-13-03]

CHESAPEAKE BAY TRUST

Subject Public Meeting

Date and Time: May 19, 2027, 3 6 p.m.

Place: 108 Severn Ave, Annapolis, MD

Contact: Office Manager 410-974-2941

[26-13-04]

COMMISSION ON CRIMINAL SENTENCING POLICY

Subject: Public Meeting

Date and Time: July 7, 2026, 5:30 7:30 p.m.

Place: The MSCCSP will meet via videoconference. A livestream of the meeting is available at:

https://www.youtube.com/live/SqEaGX0R-Bs

Contact: David Soule 301-403-4165

[26-13-17]

DEPARTMENT OF THE ENVIRONMENT

Subject: Public Hearing

Date and Time: July 17, 2026, 1 p.m.

Place: Online - Google Meet platform.

Add'l. Info: The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) gives notice of a public hearing and comment period concerning a State Implementation Plan (SIP) addressing outstanding requirements for the 2015 Ozone National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for the State of Maryland.

A virtual public hearing will be held on:
Friday, July 17, 2026: 1:00 pm (America/New York)
Please join the meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone.
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/bry-rsyq-qjd
You can also dial in using your phone.
Access Code: 534 846 575#
United States: +1 575-808-8359

The Public Hearing will be held as required by federal law (Clean Air Act at 42 U.S.C. 7410(a) and 40 CFR 51.102). Interested persons are invited to attend and express their views. After the Department considers the comments received, and revises the proposal if necessary, all related items will be submitted to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

An electronic copy of the proposed SIP revision will be available on the Maryland Department of the Environment s website at
https://mde.maryland.gov/programs/air/airqualityplanning/pages/index.aspx

Note: the public library systems in Maryland can be used for Internet access to view the document. Copies of the document can also be obtained via email by writing to [email protected].

Written comments may be presented at the hearing, emailed to [email protected], or mailed to the Planning Program, MDE ARA, 1800 Washington Boulevard, Suite 730, Baltimore, MD 21230. Comments must be received before 5:00 pm on July 17, 2026.

Anyone needing special accommodations at a public hearing should contact the Department s Fair Practices Office at (410) 537-3964. TTY users may contact the Department through the Maryland Relay Service at 1-800-735-2258.

Contact: Emily Bull 410-537-4223

[26-13-11]

DEPARTMENT OF THE ENVIRONMENT

Subject Public Hearing

Date and Time: July 17, 2026, 3 p.m.

Place: Google Meet Platform

Add'l. Info: The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) gives notice of a public hearing and comment period concerning a State Implementation Plan (SIP) containing a redesignation request and maintenance plan for the 2015 Ozone National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for the Serious Baltimore Nonattainment Area.

A virtual public hearing will be held on:
July 17, 2026, 3:00 PM (America/New York)
Please join the meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone.
https://meet.google.com/wmt-hrid-nnv
You can also dial in using your phone.
PIN: 827 518 997#
Or dial: ‪(US) +1 252-776-5652

The Public Hearing will be held as required by federal law (Clean Air Act at 42 U.S.C. 7410(a) and 40 CFR 51.102). Interested persons are invited to attend and express their views. After the Department considers the comments received, and revises the proposal if necessary, all related items will be submitted to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

An electronic copy of the proposed SIP revision will be available on the Maryland Department of the Environment s website at
https://mde.maryland.gov/programs/air/airqualityplanning/pages/index.aspx

Note: the public library systems in Maryland can be used for Internet access to view the document. Copies of the document can also be obtained via email by writing to [email protected].

Contact: Emily Bull 410-537-4223

[26-13-15]

DEPARTMENT OF THE ENVIRONMENT/AIR AND RADIATION ADMINISTRATION

Subject: Public Hearing

Date and Time: July 17, 2026, 11 a.m.

Place: Google Meet Platform

Add'l. Info: This is a correction to a previous notice of public hearing. The public comment period has been extended, and the public hearing date has changed from June 30, 2026 at 10:00 am to July 17, 2026 at 11:00 am. The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) gives notice of a public hearing concerning the redesignation request and maintenance plan for the Baltimore Nonattainment Area for the 2008 Ozone National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS).
The virtual public hearing will be held on July 17, 2026 at 11:00 am.
Public Hearing Redesignation Request and Maintenance Plan for the 2008 Ozone National Ambient Air Quality Standards for the Moderate Baltimore Nonattainment Area
July 17, 2026, 11:00 AM (America/New York)
Please join the meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone.
https://meet.google.com/phh-rtvk-udb
You can also dial in using your phone.
PIN: ‪988 604 205#
Or dial: ‪(US) +1 317-743-0490

An electronic copy of the proposed Maintenance Plan for the 2008 Ozone National Ambient Air Quality Standards for the Moderate Baltimore Nonattainment Area SIP revision will be available on the Maryland Department of the Environment s website at
https://mde.maryland.gov/programs/air/airqualityplanning/pages/index.aspx

Note: the public library systems in Maryland can be used for Internet access to view the document. Copies of the document can also be obtained via email by writing to [email protected].

Written comments may be presented at the hearing, faxed to 410-537-3203, emailed to [email protected], or mailed to the Planning Program, MDE ARA, 1800 Washington Boulevard, Suite 730, Baltimore, MD 21230. Comments must be received before 5:00 pm on July 17, 2026.

Contact: Emily Bull 410-537-4223

[26-13-16]

MARYLAND HEALTH BENEFIT EXCHANGE

Subject: Public Meeting

Date and Time: August 4, 2026, 1 2:30 p.m.

Place: Virtual. Please register for the meeting here: https://maryland-gov.zoomgov.com/meeting/register/SY5kM9AFTfOq-LT-jsNR3w, MD

Add'l. Info: Please fill out this form to sign up for public comment or to request accessibility accommodations: https://forms.gle/4Ji94REeRUNh62tu6

Contact: Becca Lane 410-547-7371

[26-13-06]

Issue Date	Emergency and Proposed Regulations 5 p.m.*	Notices, etc. 10:30 a.m.	Final Regulations 10:30 a.m.
2026
July 10	June 22	June 29	July 1
July 24	July 6	July 13	July 15
August 7	July 20	July 27	July 29
August 21	August 3	August 10	August 12
September 4	August 17	August 24	August 26
September18**	August 31	September 4	September 9
October 2	September14	September21	September23
October 16	September28	October 5	October 7
October 30**	October 9	October 19	October 21
November 13	October 26	November 2	November 4
November30***	November 9	November16	November18
December 11	November23	November30	December 2
December28***	December 7	December14	December16