(April 4, 2024) Annapolis, Md. – The Maryland Municipal League (MML)’s priority legislation enabling Maryland’s 157 municipalities to establish Tourism Zones, SB 14 (Sen. Michael A. Jackson) and HB 1281 (Del. Wayne A. Hartman), received final passage yesterday. The bill is now awaiting Governor Moore’s signature, after sharing his support for the concept at MML’s Fall Conference in 2023.  

In addition to allowing local jurisdictions to self-designate the boundaries of a tourism zone, the bill provides the authority to establish definitions for tourism businesses, provide certain local incentives, and set qualifications. Incentives can include real property tax credits, personal property tax credits, and exemption from local Admission and Amusement taxes.

Maryland Secretary of Commerce Kevin Anderson also shared support from the Moore Administration at both the Senate and House hearing. 

“We are grateful to the bill sponsors, Committee Chairs, Presiding Officers, and the Moore Administration for their support, and I am excited to share this new economic development tool with our cities, towns, and villages,” said MML CEO Theresa Kuhns. 

The League is planning a workshop for the annual Summer Conference in Ocean City to familiarize MML members with Tourism Zones and how to tailor this new tool to maximize effectiveness.