FAQs

Where does the Maryland General Assembly meet?

A. The Maryland General Assembly meets in Annapolis each year for 90 days to act on more than 2300 bills including the State's annual budget.

When does the Maryland General Assembly convene?

A. The Maryland General Assembly convenes annually on the second Wednesday in January for a 90-day session.

How does a Council bill become law?

The Montgomery County Council enacts local public laws for the "peace, good government, health, and welfare of the county." Since State laws take precedence over local laws, the Council must not enact any law that is contrary to State law; in case of a conflict, State laws are preeminent. Most criminal laws that we are familiar with are State laws.

The Montgomery County Charter requires that the County Council hold a public hearing on every proposed law, and a majority of 5 votes is required to enact a law. Emergency legislation, which is declared necessary for the immediate protection of public health or safety, requires 6 votes for enactment. If the County Executive vetoes a law enacted by the Council, the Council within 60 days may, by the vote of 6 members, override the veto.

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