Maryland Legislature Approves Commemorative Months for Muslim and Jewish Heritage Amid Final Session Push

The Maryland legislature approved new heritage months for Muslim and Jewish communities and passed the No Kings Act. Read the latest legislative updates.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 11, 2026, 10:25 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Maryland Matters.

Maryland Senate Approves Landmark Religious Heritage Months

In a 33-10 vote on Friday, the Maryland Senate gave final approval to House Bill 661, establishing January as Muslim American Heritage Month and May as Jewish American Heritage Month. The legislation, which now heads to the governor's desk, marks the first time religious components have been included in the state’s official list of 20 commemorative recognitions. Proponents of the bill argued that these designations are essential to combat a documented rise in hate crimes targeting both Jewish and Muslim communities.

The bill’s passage followed a contentious debate regarding religious inclusion. Some lawmakers criticized the measure for excluding a Christian heritage month. An amendment to designate April as a month for all religions was blocked on Friday, following a similar defeat for a proposed Christian-specific month earlier in the week. Supporters maintained that the specific focus on Judaism and Islam was necessary to address immediate societal tensions.

"No Kings Act" Passes House Despite GOP Opposition

House Bill 351, frequently referred to as the "No Kings Act," received final approval from the House of Delegates on Friday with a 97-35 vote. The bill is a direct response to federal immigration enforcement tactics and seeks to unmask federal officials involved in alleged misconduct. It grants state and local prosecutors the authority to utilize GPS data, cellphone records, and other surveillance tactics to identify federal agents if a misconduct claim is filed against them.

The legislation also includes provisions allowing civil claims against federal officials who violate constitutional rights "under color of law." While House Republicans fought the measure until the final vote arguing that it unfairly targets federal law enforcement the Democratic majority successfully sent the bill, and its Senate companion (SB 346), to the governor for signature.