Maryland — As the calendar turns to 2026, several new state laws will officially take effect across Maryland, introducing changes that touch public safety, healthcare access, worker protections, and homeowner rights. While lawmakers will reconvene for the General Assembly’s 449th session on January 14, 2026, these measures become law at the very start of the year.
Here’s a breakdown of the most impactful Maryland laws launching January 1, 2026, and how they may affect residents statewide.
Domestic Violence Awareness Training for Barbers and Cosmetologists
A new law, House Bill 1547, requires licensed barbers and cosmetologists to complete one hour of domestic violence awareness training when applying for or renewing their professional licenses.
The training focuses on:
- Recognizing signs of domestic violence
- Communicating safely and compassionately with potential victims
- Listening and responding appropriately
- Connecting individuals to support services and resources
Lawmakers say the goal is to leverage trusted, community-based professions to help identify and support victims who may not otherwise seek help.
Rideshare Earnings Transparency for Drivers
Under House Bill 861, rideshare companies such as Uber and Lyft must provide drivers with detailed weekly earnings statements.
These reports must clearly outline:
- Total fares
- Fees charged
- Driver pay percentages
The information must also be submitted to Maryland’s State Public Service Commission, increasing oversight and transparency in the gig-economy sector.
Free Cancer Screenings for Firefighters
Firefighters employed by Maryland counties will receive expanded health protections under House Bill 459.
The law requires counties to provide free preventative cancer screenings with no copayments, deductibles, or coinsurance. Covered screenings include:
- Bladder
- Breast
- Cervical
- Colorectal
- Lung
- Oral
- Prostate
- Skin
- Testicular
- Thyroid
In addition, counties must collect anonymized data to support future research into cancer risks among firefighters, a profession shown to have elevated cancer exposure rates.
Easier Emergency Transfers for Pediatric Patients
House Bill 1301 eliminates prior authorization requirements for emergency transfers to special pediatric hospitals.
This applies to:
- Private insurers
- Nonprofit health service plans
- Health maintenance organizations (HMOs)
- Medicaid
- Maryland Children’s Health Program (MCHP)
A “special pediatric hospital” is defined as a Maryland facility providing non-acute medical, rehabilitation, therapy, or palliative care to individuals under 22 years old, or up to age 23 for those with co-occurring physical and behavioral health conditions.
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The change aims to reduce delays during time-sensitive medical situations.
Insurance Coverage for Early Heart Disease Testing
With House Bill 666, insurers must now cover coronary artery calcium score testing, a diagnostic scan used to detect early signs of heart disease.
The test:
- Is a CT scan of the heart
- Measures calcium buildup in coronary arteries
- Helps assess future heart attack risk
Lawmakers say early detection could lead to better prevention and long-term cost savings in cardiovascular care.
Expanded Protections for Heirs Living in Family Homes
House Bill 59 introduces new safeguards for individuals living in inherited family properties, often known as “heir properties.”
The law:
- Prevents certain family homes from being sold at tax sales
- Establishes an heir property registry
- Modifies tax sale redemption rules to give heirs more time and protection
Supporters say the measure helps prevent generational wealth loss, particularly in communities where property ownership is shared informally among family members.
Looking Ahead to 2026
Together, these laws reflect Maryland’s focus on healthcare access, worker transparency, domestic violence prevention, and housing stability as the new year begins. Additional legislation may follow when lawmakers return to Annapolis later in January.
Which of these new laws do you think will have the biggest impact on Maryland residents in 2026? Share your thoughts in the comments.
