Below is a partial list of Maryland laws taking effect today.

Some laws passed in the 2004 General Assembly session took effect as soon as they were passed last spring, and many already have taken effect.

More will take effect in the future. For more information on state laws and the General Assembly, visit mlis.state.md.us.

- SB 69 (Income Tax - Time for Filing Quarterly Income Tax Withholding Returns): Alters the time for filing some income tax withholding returns in the state general tax article.

- HB 714/SB 485 (Solar Energy Grant Program): Establishes a grant program under the Maryland Energy Agency for individuals, businesses and local governments to help pay for solar-powered equipment.

- HB 806/SB 323 (Economic Development Financial Assistance - Minority Business Enterprise Procurement Goals): Establishes rules that are favorable to minorities seeking financial assistance from some state funds.