# Rule 9-1 “Hopper Rule”

Current through 2024. Source: DLR publication. Published by the Baltimore City Department of Legislative Reference.

## Rule 9-1 “Hopper Rule”

Balt., Md., Council Rules r. 9-1 (2026)

(a) In general. For a Councilmember to introduce a bill at a Council meeting, the member shall:

  (1) verbally or in writing authorize the Department of Legislative Reference to submit the bill to the President’s Office for introduction; and

  (2) give approval to the Department of Legislative Reference to file the necessary documents with the President or the President’s designee before noon of the 3rd workday preceding the meeting at which the bill is to be introduced.

(b) Lack of approval. Until the Department of Legislative Reference has received verbal or written approval by the Councilmember, the bill will not be considered as having been filed.

(c) Late filing. A bill filed after the deadline for a meeting may not be introduced at that meeting unless a majority of all Councilmembers (8) consent to its introduction.