MHLA Lodging Members stay informed on issues impacting the industry, and help determine the Association's legislative priorities each year. Wins help to set and maintain a reasonable business climate for hotel operators throughout Maryland, and our efforts have paid off. A few examples include the following:

In early 2022 we successfully defeated the proposed implementation of vaccine passport mandates in Montgomery County and Baltimore City when they were being implemented in DC and other states. Additionally we have advocated for state and federal relief for hotels severely impacted by government imposed travel restrictions. In a big win at the state level, Governor Hogan allocated $50M for direct hotel relief, which was distributed through Maryland counties in early 2021, making Maryland one of the first states to provide direct relief specifically to hotels.  READ MORE...​

​​During the 2021 Maryland General Assembly, SB 610 was introduced at the request of MHLA in an effort to delay existing requirements related to the height of beds in ADA accessible rooms.  In acknowledgement of the hardships facing hotels, the legislature passed the bill, resulting in a 1-year extension of all deadlines and enabling hotels to postpone the capital expenditure until 2022. 

​​​Over the course of many years, MHLA has successfully advocated in multiple counties and statewide for the right of hotel operators to determine their own lifeguard needs at small hotel pools.  In 2022, MHLA opposed and defeated SB139, which proposed requiring a lifeguard at all hotel pools in Maryland.  On average, these efforts have saved hotels with a seasonal outdoor or year-round indoor pool an average of $20,000 – $45,000 annually if a lifeguard is not needed. 

MHLA Lodging Members may serve on our Government Affairs Committee or request MHLA’s involvement in local issues impacting specific cities and counties. It’s important to maintain membership before issues arise to ensure swift activation by the Association, just like an insurance policy retained to protect against unforeseen threats on your business. Legislative Alerts and Reports as well as Compliance & Operational Resources may be viewed with a Member Log-In.