The segments below provide a brief overview of MACo’s work in the area of transportation policy in the 2021 General Assembly. 

MACo generally advocates for the appropriate state assistance with roadways and bridges across our local communities. Transportation is a shared function in Maryland, with state-maintained roadways (mainly numbered roads) and locally-maintained roadways interlocking throughout most areas.

This year the Maryland General Assembly conducted a legislative session unlike any other due to the enduring COVID-19 pandemic. The unique circumstances surrounding the 442nd legislative session, including necessary health and safety measures, posed a challenge for lawmakers and advocates alike. Despite the unusual circumstances, MACo’s advocacy still led to more positive outcomes for its members.

For more information on Maryland’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic visit MACo’s COVID-19 resource page.

Follow links for more coverage on Conduit Street and MACo’s Legislative Tracking Database. 

Highway User Revenues

MACo supported legislation that would have provided long-term stability for county transportation services by restoring county funding from the Highway User Revenues. Following the “great recession” in 2009, the Board of Public Works cut distributions of Highway User Revenues to counties by 90% and by roughly 40% for Baltimore City. Highway User Revenues – Revenue and Distribution proposed a 2026 commencement for a gradual phase-in return to the dollar distributions provided in FY 2008, which would allow local governments to plan for and provide vital transportation safety and maintenance services. This legislation passed through the Senate but did not advance in the House following its public hearing.

Bill Information I MACo Coverage

Crosswalks and Curb Ramps

MACo supported legislation that would require the State Highway Administration (SHA) to install and maintain crosswalks and curb ramps at the intersection of a State highway and local highway under certain circumstances. This bill provides a fair, reasonable, and much-needed framework to improve and increase pedestrian safety, which is central to proper road planning. Intersection of State and Local Highways – Crosswalks and Curb Ramps did not advance in the 2021 General Assembly following its public hearing. 

Bill Information I MACo Coverage

For more on transportation and public works-related legislation tracked by MACo during the 2021 legislative session, click here.