§ 28. Publications

   (a) Definitions. -- In a law, resolution, or court order or decree that refers to publishing a legal advertisement or legal notice, words such as "paper", "newspaper", "newspaper in general circulation", or "newspaper devoted to the dissemination of general news" mean, unless otherwise provided, a publication that:

   (1) Has at least 4 pages;

   (2) Habitually contains news items, reports of current events, editorial comments, advertising matter, and other miscellaneous information that is of public interest and is found generally in an ordinary newspaper;

   (3) At least once a week for 6 months or more before publication of the notice or advertisement, has been published and distributed, by sale, from an established place of business;

   (4) Has general circulation throughout the community where the publication is published; and

   (5) Is entitled to be entered as second-class matter in the United States mail.

(b) Prince George's County. -- Subject to subsection (a) of this section and for purposes of the public general laws of the State, in Prince George's County, "newspaper in general circulation" includes:

   (1) A newspaper designated by the County Council as a newspaper of record; and

   (2) A newspaper that:

      (i) Qualifies under subsection (a) of this section with respect to Prince George's County; and

      (ii) Is published by a small business as defined in § 14-201 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.

HISTORY: 1984, ch. 284, § 9; 2001, ch. 709.