On February 25, 2022, Associate Policy Director Dominic Butchko testified before the House Environment and Transportation and Economic Matters Committees in support of HB 894 – Transportation Electrification and Modernization (TEAM) Act. This bill would provide resources to counties looking to expand their electric vehicle fleets.

From the MACo testimony: 

Vehicle emissions represent one of the largest sources of air pollutants in most communities; as such, counties recognize the importance of reducing vehicle emissions as part of an effective strategy to fight climate change. For example, a 2020 study found that vehicles accounted for nearly 35% of Baltimore City’s total emissions. By encouraging the electrification of both public and private vehicles, and harnessing Maryland’s progress toward cleaner sources for our power companies, the State can target one of the most substantial contributors to climate change. While there are some concerns with how electrification may increase pollution from power generation in the short term, as utilities continue to adopt more environmentally friendly technology, the level of harmful emissions is expected to decrease.

More on MACo’s advocacy:

Follow MACo’s advocacy efforts during the 2022 legislative session on MACo’s Legislative Tracking Database.
Learn more about MACo’s 2022 Legislative Initiatives.
Read more General Assembly News on MACo’s Conduit Street blog.