Maryland's statewide smoking ban was the biggest news coming out of the Maryland General Assembly 2007 legislative session. But there were more than 700 other bills passed during that session.These bills passed both the House and Senate, and then signed by Gov. Martin O'Malley:
- Ground Rent - No new ground rents are to be created; a ground rent registry is established; homeowner notification requirements are increased; and ground-rent holders are required to issue regular bills.
- Apology for Slavery - State apologized for its role in slavery.
- Smoking Ban - Starting Feb. 1, 2008, smoking is illegal in bars, restaurants and private clubs. However, business owners can apply for waivers, which would expire in 2011, if they can demonstrate a financial hardship.
- "Living Wage" - State government contractors must pay workers a "living wage" defined as $11.30 in the Baltimore-Washington corridor and $8.50 in rural areas.
- "Jessica's Law" - Parole for sex offenders serving mandatory minimum sentences is prohibited. Another bill defines a sex offense against a child as a crime of violence.
- Voting Procedures - Maryland's presidential primary will be moved to Feb. 12. Maryland will award its electoral votes to the popular vote winner, if enough other states agree to do the same. Felons who have completed their sentences will have voting rights restored. Maryland will replace its electronic voting system with one that provides a paper trail by 2010, if funding becomes available.
- Diamondback Terrapin - Trapping of Maryland's state reptile is banned.
- Emissions Standards - Stricter standards are enacted for cars sold in Maryland.
- Teenage Drivers - Teenagers must prove good school attendance to get learners' permits. More on teenage drivers.
- Tuition Freeze - For University System of Maryland campuses for the 2007-2008 academic year
- Consumer Credit Reform – Consumers can place a hold on credit reports as a way to fight identity theft.