On March 9, 2022, Associate Policy Director Dominic Butchko testified before the House Environment and Transportation Committee in support of HB 1263 – Environment – Office on Climate Change – Establishment with amendments. The bill would establish the Office on Climate Change in the Office of the Governor, responsible for a multitude of actions surrounding the State’s response to climate change. MACo amendments would add uncodified language clarifying that the new office would not gain unnecessary regulatory oversight.
From the MACo testimony: 
Counties are on the front line of the effects of climate change, especially sea level rise and saltwater intrusion. As counties continue to combat climate change in a variety of ways, state support can be a valuable asset. Many counties do not have one department dedicated to climate change or sustainability, but those that do report highly of its effectiveness in coordinating larger efforts and providing support to the rest of the local government. The State should provide research and guidance to counties to plan and develop local actions that address the impacts of climate change in a way that best serves their residents.
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.
