Maryland Code, ELECTION LAW 13-202
(1) spend more than $1,000 in personal funds; or
(2) accept contributions.
(b) Unless otherwise expressly authorized by law, all campaign finance activity for an election under this article shall be conducted through a campaign finance entity.
(c) An individual may not file a certificate of candidacy or a declaration of intent under § 5-703 or § 5-703.1 of this article until the individual establishes, or causes to be established, an authorized candidate campaign committee.
(d) A circulator may not collect signatures for a petition under Article XI-A, Article XI-F, or Article XVI of the Maryland Constitution or under § 9-205 of the Local Government Article until the sponsor of the petition establishes a ballot issue committee.