Del. Mark Fisher Introduces Bill Banning Calvert Commissioners From Signing NDAs With Private Entities

NOTE: The Office of Delegate Mark Fisher shared the following press release:

ANNAPOLIS, Md. — Maryland Delegate Mark Fisher (R-27C) has introduced House Bill 1332 in the 2026 Maryland General Assembly session. The bill would prohibit the Calvert County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) from entering into non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) or confidentiality agreements with private entities.

The proposed legislation responds to recent public concerns regarding government transparency, particularly in connection with discussions about potential large-scale developments, such as data centers, in Calvert County. These projects can involve significant impacts on local energy infrastructure, utility rates, grid capacity, property values and community quality of life.

During a December 2025 joint meeting with Calvert County’s state legislative delegation, Commissioner Earl “Buddy” Hance confirmed that the BOCC had entered into an NDA with a private company. When Delegate Fisher asked directly if such an agreement existed with a “Data Center,” Commissioner Hance said it was not with a Data Center.

At the March 3, 2026, BOCC meeting, a representative from Amazon Web Services (AWS) addressed the board regarding the company’s interest in potentially developing a data center in Calvert County. AWS has stated that no formal plans, permits or agreements have been finalized.

“Major developments like data centers can affect every resident in Calvert County through increased energy demands and other infrastructure needs,” said Delegate Mark Fisher. “The public has a right to transparency from their elected officials, especially on issues with such broad implications. NDAs between county commissioners and private entities undermine public trust and limit residents’ ability to provide meaningful input. This bill would promote accountability and ensure that decisions affecting the entire community are made openly.”

Data centers typically require substantial electricity and water resources, which can strain local utilities and potentially influence rates for residents and businesses. Many Calvert County residents have expressed concerns and called for full public disclosure and engagement before any such projects advance.

House Bill 1332, titled “Calvert County – County Commissioners – Prohibited Agreements,” would make any NDA or confidentiality agreement entered into in violation of the prohibition void and unenforceable as contrary to public policy. The bill is assigned to the Government, Labor and Elections Committee.