Fiscal and Policy Notes on Legislation

What are "fiscal notes" and where can I find them?

The Department of Legislative Services (DLS) is required by law to provide a written estimate of the fiscal impact on State and local government finances for all proposed legislation.  A small business impact assessment is also required. These "fiscal notes" also include a plain English summary of the bill and current law, plus relevant background information.  Nonpartisan analysts use their professional judgment and data from databases, affected State and local government agencies, and other interested parties in estimating the fiscal impact of the proposed legislation.  Fiscal notes are provided to the sponsor of the legislation, the committee assigned to consider the legislation, and the full chamber for second and third reading. Copies of fiscal notes are available at the public hearing, from the Office of Policy Analysis, and through the Maryland General Assembly's website.

Where:  Office of Policy Analysis, Room 226, Second Floor, Legislative Services Building, 90 State Circle, Annapolis, MD 21401, Baltimore area 410-946-5510 or Washington, D.C. area 301-970-5510, Other areas in Maryland 1-800-492-7122 x5510 or online at http://mgaleg.maryland.gov

Where do I get reports prepared by the Office of Policy Analysis?

The Office of Policy Analysis publishes reports to fulfill its statutory charge to conduct general research studies, develop options, make recommendations, and report to the General Assembly on various fiscal and policy matters.  All reports prepared by the Office of Policy Analysis may be found in the Library of DLS.  Some reports are available electronically on the DLS website.

Where:  Library and Information Services, Basement, Legislative Services Building, 90 State Circle, Annapolis, MD 21401, Baltimore area 410-946-5400 or Washington, D.C. area 301-970-5400, Other areas in Maryland 1-800-492-7122 x5400 or online at http://dls.state.md.us/