Maryland removes local approval requirement for neighborhood business aid

The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development can approve program applications without local government approval. This covers small businesses, including very small businesses, and nonprofits seeking program aid for projects in designated areas called priority funding areas or eligible opportunity zones. The state must still give written notice to the local government where the proposed project is located. Applicants must show that the requested aid is the minimum needed to make the project financially possible and that the project is ready to proceed once funded. Projects in areas lacking access to healthy food must include a plan to seek Maryland-grown produce and Maryland-produced foods. The removal of the local approval requirement took effect July 1, 2026.