When did Maryland become the first U.S. state to pass benefit corporation legislation?
Maryland became the first U.S. state to pass benefit corporation legislation in April 2010.
Short answers, pulled from the story.
Maryland became the first U.S. state to pass benefit corporation legislation in April 2010.
Benefit corporations are legal entities created under specific state laws, whereas B Corporations voluntarily promise to run their firm with social and environmental causes as a concern.
As of now, 36 states and Washington D.C. have passed legislation allowing for the creation of benefit corporations including Alabama which passed its law on the 31st of December 2020.
To receive certification from B Lab companies must score a minimum of 80 out of 200 on a survey called the B impact assessment.
A 2013 study conducted by MBA students at the University of Maryland revealed that one main reason businesses chose to file as benefit corporations was for community recognition of their values.