Counties and Municipalities - Homelessness - Local Laws (Right to Rest Act)

HB 1164 (Right to Rest Act) prohibits Maryland counties and municipalities from enacting or enforcing local laws that criminalize basic survival activities for homeless individuals, including resting or sleeping in public spaces (without obstructing access), protecting oneself from weather without blocking property, or sleeping in legally parked vehicles. The bill directly affects homeless individuals and local governments by banning ordinances that target these activities, which the bill states disproportionately impact homeless people and increase incarceration. Key provisions explicitly forbid local laws designed to prevent these actions, shifting focus from criminal penalties to addressing homelessness through housing and support services. The law takes effect October 1, 2025, and does not create new housing programs but restricts specific local ordinances.