In a landmark move, Maryland has become the first state in the United States to implement a statewide Tenants’ Bill of Rights. Announced on June 16, 2025, by Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development Secretary Jake Day, the new policy is part of the broader Renters Rights and Stabilization Act of 2024. The legislation aims to protect renters across the state by requiring landlords to provide tenants with a clear and comprehensive list of their rights, ensuring transparency and accountability in rental agreements. The bill also established a new office dedicated to supporting both renters and landlords.

New Requirements for Residential Leases

Beginning July 1, 2025, all residential rental leases in Maryland must include the Maryland Tenants’ Bill of Rights as an attachment. This document outlines key tenant protections and legal entitlements under state and federal law. It serves as a tool to help renters better understand their housing rights from the start of a lease. The requirement aims to promote fairness and prevent confusion between landlords and tenants.

Annual Updates to Keep Up with Law and Feedback

To keep the information current, the Maryland Office of Tenant and Landlord Affairs will update and release a new version of the Tenants’ Bill of Rights each year. The revised version will be published by September 1 and will become effective starting October 1. These updates will reflect changes in federal and state laws, as well as input received from tenants, housing advocates, and property owners across the state.

Creation of a Dedicated Tenant Support Office

The Tenants’ Bill of Rights is part of the broader responsibilities assigned to the newly established Office of Tenant and Landlord Affairs. Created under the 2024 Renters Rights and Stabilization Act, the office is now fully operational and serves as a statewide hub for housing education and support. It works with both tenants and landlords to improve communication, legal understanding, and housing stability.

Leadership with Housing Law Expertise

Alyce Thompson has been appointed as the first director of the Office of Tenant and Landlord Affairs. With over a decade of experience at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, she brings a deep understanding of housing policy and legal enforcement. During her time at HUD, Thompson led a legal team advising on community development programs that supported state and local governments, tribal nations, and nonprofit organizations.

Director’s National Housing Experience

Thompson played a key role in launching several major housing initiatives, including the Tribal HUD-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing program, which helps Native American veterans facing homelessness. She also contributed to HUD’s response to the COVID-19 housing crisis. Her background includes a law degree and a master’s in urban planning from the University of Michigan, along with an undergraduate degree in urban studies and sociology from Barnard College.

Training Offered for Professionals

The new office will not only support renters but will also provide training for landlords, real estate professionals, and property managers. These sessions will cover compliance with the Tenants’ Bill of Rights and related housing laws, including the Right of First Refusal. This particular law gives tenants in certain properties the first chance to purchase the home if the landlord decides to sell.

Right of First Refusal for Tenants

The Right of First Refusal is an important protection under Maryland’s updated housing laws. It allows eligible tenants to make an offer on their rental property before it is listed for sale to the public. This measure is designed to encourage long-term housing stability and help renters transition to homeownership when possible.

Clear Information to Strengthen Housing Stability

Providing renters with upfront and reliable information is a core goal of the Tenants’ Bill of Rights. According to both Secretary Day and Director Thompson, helping tenants and landlords better understand their legal responsibilities can reduce housing disputes and prevent displacement. The new office will play a key role in making this legal knowledge widely available and easy to understand.