Maryland Selected to Enhance Eviction Data Systems and Bolster Housing Stability

The State of Maryland has been chosen as one of eleven states to participate in New America’s Eviction Data Response Network (EDRN) for 2026-2028. This initiative will provide the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development’s (DHCD) Office of Tenant and Landlord Affairs with critical technical assistance and grant funding aimed at developing robust eviction data systems. The ultimate goal is to improve housing stability for residents across the state by using this data to inform policy and programs.

The state’s participation in the EDRN cohort signifies a commitment to addressing the challenges posed by the current housing shortage and its impact on vulnerable tenants. Through this program, Maryland will gain access to specialized coaching from New America, funding to build its eviction data capacity, resources from technology experts, and opportunities for peer learning with other participating states. This collaborative environment is expected to foster the development of a comprehensive and outcomes-oriented approach to tenant protection.

The Office of Tenant and Landlord Affairs, established by the Renters Rights and Stabilization Act of 2024, plays a crucial role in educating Marylanders about their rights and responsibilities as renters and landlords. The office is responsible for various initiatives, including the annual Maryland Tenants’ Bill of Rights, the management of the Tenants Right of First Refusal portal, the analysis of eviction data from the District Court of Maryland, and the production of an annual eviction report. This new partnership will further empower the office by enabling the creation of a state-of-the-art eviction data dashboard. This dashboard will be instrumental in shaping public policy at both state and local levels, identifying areas with high eviction rates, and strategically deploying resources such as tenant outreach, legal services, and emergency rental assistance.

The broader implications of evictions extend beyond individual households, impacting the stability of entire communities. Evictions can disrupt children’s education, hinder employment prospects, negatively affect health outcomes, and weaken community ties. For the state, this can translate into increased rates of homelessness, economic instability, and greater strain on social services. The technical assistance and funding provided through the EDRN are expected to equip Maryland with the tools to identify emerging eviction trends earlier, target preventative resources more effectively, and intervene before families face a housing crisis.

Maryland’s selection to the EDRN cohort highlights a national recognition of data’s essential role in achieving housing stability. The program aims to create a replicable model for other states to improve their eviction data infrastructure. The participating states represent a diverse range of geographical locations, political landscapes, and housing market conditions, underscoring a widespread understanding of the need for data-driven solutions. The high level of interest in the EDRN, with over half the country applying, indicates a strong demand for improved data systems to address the eviction crisis.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development.

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