ANNAPOLIS, Md. — A slate of new Maryland laws quietly took effect this month, touching everything from public health and worker training to housing protections and cannabis taxation. While the legislation reflects statewide policy priorities, local governments, small businesses and service providers are now grappling with the realities of implementation.
One new requirement affects barbers and hairstylists, who must now complete domestic violence awareness training as part of their licensing and renewal process. Supporters of the law assert that salons and barbershops are often trusted spaces where clients may feel comfortable disclosing abuse, making stylists potential first points of contact for help. On the local level, however, some shop owners and independent stylists are working to understand how the training will be delivered, how long it will take and whether it will create additional costs or scheduling challenges in an already tight labor market.
Housing advocates are monitoring the rollout of new tenant protection measures that took effect in fall 2025, including changes intended to strengthen notice requirements and guard against unfair eviction practices. While advocates argue the laws offer meaningful safeguards for renters, some landlords and property managers have raised questions about compliance timelines, documentation standards and enforcement. Several local housing offices report an uptick in calls from both tenants and landlords seeking clarification, highlighting the gap that often exists between legislative intent and day-to-day application…