PHED committee backs resolution urging foreclosure moratorium for Maryland federal employees

The Planning, Housing and Economic Development Committee on April 3 recommended approval of a resolution urging a residential mortgage foreclosure moratorium for Maryland federal employees.

The resolution, identified in committee materials as CR 22 20 25, passed the committee on a favorable recommendation after the sponsor and county administration agreed on “friendly amendments” to narrow the scope and add implementation clarifications. Council member Hawkins sponsored the resolution and moved both the amendments and the final favorable recommendation.

The measure was framed by its sponsor as a preemptive step to address possible mortgage foreclosures tied to federal employment changes. “PR 22 20 25 is really an effort to try to get in front of what may become a very challenging situation with our, foreclosures in Prince George’s County,” Council member Hawkins said during the committee meeting. County administration staff signaled support for the resolution and read proposed edits onto the record that would, among other changes, clarify which federal workers would be covered, exclude cases where a property is abandoned or the homeowner chooses foreclosure proceedings, and suggest relief from penalties and interest on overdue taxes during the protection period.

Committee members accepted a motion to adopt the administration’s recommended amendments. Clerk roll-call votes show Chair DeNova, Council member Hawkins, Council member Olson and Vice Chair Oriada voting to accept the amendments. The motion to move the resolution favorably as amended was later adopted by recorded vote in committee.

Why it matters: committee members said the resolution is intended to send a policy request to the governor and state officials so county residents who are federal employees have additional time or protections if their employer status changes. The resolution does not itself change county code or provide direct financial assistance; it is a formal expression of support urging action by state or federal authorities.

Next steps: The committee forwarded the measure with a favorable recommendation; the full County Council will consider the resolution during its legislative process.

Acknowledgments: County staff from the Office of Law provided a memorandum to the committee indicating no legal impediment to adoption. Committee materials included a Moody’s analysis about state-level exposure to federal job cuts that committee members had before them.

Votes-at-a-glance: The committee recorded aye votes on the amendment and on the favorable recommendation in the meeting minutes and roll call.