ANNAPOLIS — Nearly 900 bills passed by the Maryland General Assembly during the 2026 session will take effect July 1, bringing changes to taxes, education, public safety benefits and consumer protections.
The state gas tax will rise to 46.6 cents per gallon for gasoline and 47.5 cents per gallon for diesel, according to the Comptroller of Maryland. This marks the first increase in two years and comes on top of the federal tax of 18.4 cents per gallon. The adjustment follows a formula tied to inflation and fuel prices established in prior legislation.
County school boards must now allow excused or discretionary absences for students participating in civic engagement activities, such as testifying before lawmakers or taking part in General Assembly programs.
Marylanders who donate deer meat to qualifying organizations can claim a state income tax credit of up to $600, an increase from the previous $300 limit. The credit applies to taxable years beginning after Dec. 31, 2025.
Residents aged 55 or older who worked in certain public safety roles, including correctional officers, emergency medical technicians and paramedics, may subtract up to $20,000 of retirement income from their state taxes over five years. The previous limit was $15,000.
School systems must include details in harassment and bullying reports about whether incidents were motivated by a student’s race, religion, sexual orientation or other characteristics. School boards must provide this information upon request while protecting individual student privacy.
Higher education institutions with on-campus housing must provide free menstrual hygiene products in health centers by Aug. 1, 2028.
Cannabis dispensaries face new advertising restrictions. Exterior signs must identify the business as licensed and include safety warnings. Media advertisements are allowed only if data shows at least 85 percent of the audience is expected to be 21 or older, and ads cannot use cartoons or mascots that appeal to minors.
These measures represent a portion of the legislation enacted during the session. Residents can review full bill texts and implementation details through the Maryland General Assembly website.
