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Delegate Schindler’s bill would require free patient parking at Maryland hospitals; hospitals say contracts, budgets complicate mandate
Summary
Delegate Matthew Schindler asked the committee to require free validated parking for patients during inpatient/outpatient stays. Hospitals warned a statewide mandate could shift costs to hospital operating budgets, conflict with private parking contracts and disproportionately affect urban hospitals that operate paid garages.
Delegate Matthew Schindler presented House Bill 519, which would require Maryland hospitals to provide free validated parking for patients receiving inpatient or outpatient care for the duration of their visit. Schindler told the committee validated parking is a straightforward way to reduce a financial burden on patients receiving lengthy or repeated care.
Nut graf: Sponsors said the policy would provide relief to patients who otherwise pay hospital parking fees that can total tens of dollars per visit; opponents — primarily hospital groups — said a state mandate would impose substantial costs and legal complications for hospitals that lease parking or operate garage contracts.
Sponsor testimony: Schindler said validated parking is an established option and that his bill would not require hospitals to provide free parking to visitors or staff. He proposed exempting facilities that already provide free parking, and said the bill’s flexibility would let hospitals choose implementation methods and validation systems.
Hospital testimony: Jake Whitaker of the Maryland Hospital Association opposed the bill, saying Maryland hospitals operate under the HSCRC global budget model; requiring free patient parking without funding would divert operating funds away from patient care. The association also said some hospitals lease parking from private operators and cannot unilaterally change contracts.
Committee discussion: Members asked about liability and implementation details — for example, whether hospitals should validate parking when a patient drove themselves but staff later judge them unfit to drive home. Sponsors agreed to meet with hospitals and asked to explore amendments addressing contract and hardship questions.
Ending: Schindler said he would meet with hospital representatives; the committee asked sponsors to consult with hospitals and the Department of Health before advancing the bill.
