On February 18, Legislative Services Assistant Charlotte Fleckenstein testified in support of HB 517 – Emission Standards, Ambient Air Quality Standards, and Solid Waste Management – Local Authority.
This bill would clarify the intent of the General Assembly that counties have the power to regulate outdoor air quality and enact regulations that are as strict or stricter than the federal and state floors.
Over many years, the General Assembly has entrusted local governments with meaningful authority to address environmental challenges in ways that reflect community needs and conditions. HB 517 is a welcome clarification to reaffirm that counties may adopt and enforce outdoor air quality standards that meet or exceed federal and state floors.
Local jurisdictions deserve the flexibility to tailor environmental
standards to serve their communities. Counties recognize the importance of a healthy environment and have largely been leading the charge in securing better environmental outcomes.
More on MACo’s Advocacy:
- Follow MACo’s advocacy efforts during the 2026 legislative session on MACo’s Legislative Tracking Database
- Learn more about MACo’s 2026 Legislative Initiatives
- Read more General Assembly News on MACo’s Conduit Street blog