Governor Larry Hogan Signs Records Management and Procurement Bills into Law

Governor Larry Hogan yesterday signed Records Management and Preservation – State Units and Public Officials – Responsibilities (SB 44), important legislation pertaining to the Maryland Department of General Services (DGS), at a bill signing ceremony in Annapolis.

This legislation makes procedural improvements to records management programs used by the State and public officials. It requires units of State government to establish record retention and disposal schedules that facilitate accurate and complete records inventories, and prompt disposition of electronic records and the transfer of permanent records to the custody of the Maryland State Archives (MSA).

“Making government more efficient and effective for Maryland citizens is a top priority of the Hogan-Rutherford administration,” said DGS Secretary Ellington Churchill. “This legislation will enable us to better safeguard important records and provide the level of customer service that Marylanders deserve.”

The legislation also requires each head of a unit of State government to designate a records officer from their executive staff to develop and oversee a records management program and serve as a liaison to the MSA and the Records Management Division of DGS.

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About DGS: The Department of General Services is responsible for essential services and programs administered on behalf of the state, including procuring goods and services; designing, building, leasing, managing and maintaining facilities; leading energy conservation efforts; and providing essential services such as fuel management, disposition of surplus property and records management. The Department of General Services Maryland Capitol Police maintains safety and security at state buildings.