WINS and LOSSES in Annapolis
. . . and no time to rest
THE VICTORIES
Climate activists had several victories in Annapolis this session. For any of these victories to take effect, however, the governor will need to SIGN THE BILLS. If he vetoes them, lawmakers will need to vote to override. Please urge Gov. Hogan to sign these bills. Call 410-974-3901 (1-800-735-2258 for MD Relay) or email here. Suggested script is here.
PASSED: The Clean Energy Jobs Act (SB516) doubles Maryland’s Renewable Portfolio Standard policy to 50% renewable electricity by 2030 and requires the state to determine the best path to achieve 100% renewable electricity by 2040. Unfortunately, polluting trash incineration still gets clean-energy subsidies. Utility Dive reports on the bill.
PASSED: Ban on polystyrene foam (Styrofoam) food containers (SB285/HB109) at businesses and schools. If the governor signs the bill, Maryland would become the first state to ban these containers. And, thanks to a new study, we now know that plastic bits from bags and Styrofoam are blowing around in the wind and reaching remote mountains.
PASSED: Plastic bag fee (HB1166) gives Howard County the authority to impose a fee on single-use plastic bags at checkout.
PASSED: Community solar pilot program SB520/HB683. This pilot program is extended through July 1, 2022.
PASSED: Energy storage pilot project SB573/HB650 Read about it here.
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