Department of Natural Resources – Savage River Lodge – Hotel Rental Surcharge

SB 638 requires the Maryland Department of Natural Resources to collect an 8% surcharge on hotel rentals at Savage River Lodge. The proceeds will be sent to Garrett County, which must use 6% of the surcharge for promoting the county and the remaining 2% for the county’s general fund. This bill directly affects hotel guests staying at Savage River Lodge and provides a dedicated funding source for Garrett County’s promotional efforts and general operations. It amends Maryland law to establish this specific surcharge mechanism for the lodge property. The bill takes effect July 1, 2025.