On February 24, Director of Intergovernmental Affairs Dominic Butchko submitted written testimony to the Budget and Taxation Committee in support of SB 558 - Chesapeake Bay Enhancement Program - Established.  This bill would establish the Chesapeake Bay Enhancement Program to support oyster propagation and replenishment projects in areas of the Chesapeake Bay affected by development associated with the Helen Delich Bentley Port of Baltimore. By directing resources to targeted restoration efforts within the Chesapeake Bay,…

On February 24, Director of Intergovernmental Affairs Dominic Butchko testified before the Education, Energy, and the Environment Committee in support of SB 553 - Commission to Advance Lithium-Ion Battery Safety in Maryland - Reestablishment.  This bill renews the Commission to Advance Lithium-Ion Battery Safety in Maryland, extending its charge to evaluate policy challenges and solutions regarding battery safety. As these batteries become increasingly embedded in consumer products, vehicles, infrastructure systems, and recycling streams, counties have…

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…

On February 11, Director of Intergovernmental Relations Dominic Butchko submitted written testimony to the Environment and Transportation Committee in support of HB 429 – On-Farm Organics and Wasted Food Reduction and Diversion Grant Programs - Established. This bill would establish several grant programs to expand composting, strengthen environmental stewardship, and improve recycling outcomes. Food waste sent to landfills generates significant greenhouse gas emissions—especially methane—and finding better ways to reduce and divert this material is one…

On February 4, Director of Intergovernmental Relations Dominic Butchko submitted written testimony to the Environment and Transportation Committee in support to HB 35 – Local Government - Regulatory Powers - Regulation of Tree of Heaven.  This bill would provide additional powers to local jurisdictions for the regulation and control of the invasive Tree of Heaven. The Tree of Heaven is the preferred plant for Spotted Lanternflies to lay their eggs. This invasive insect species is…