Stormwater Fee Update

Lawmakers heard legislation to repeal Maryland’s stormwater remediation fees this week. While a complete repeal is unlikely for several reasons, the Maryland Chamber’s Energy and Environment Committee and Legislative Committee will continue to monitor the issue. The Maryland Chamber has raised issues with lawmakers and regulators about the need for more uniformity across the 10 impacted jurisdictions. In addition, the Chamber’s Energy and Environment Committee have developed three concepts for the legislators to consider as the debate continues:  

1. No blanket exemptions of any entities from remediation fees; 

2. Clearly define those who are eligible for credits under the financial hardship provision listed in the statute; and,

3. To demonstrate that the fee systems comply with the state law, request that the Maryland Department of the Environment establish a mechanism for comprehensive annual reporting of each local fee program including revenue, credits, exemptions and fund expenditures. 

The issue will be debated this session and lawmakers could consider ideas to reform the program. Senate President Thomas V. Mike Miller has voiced concerns about the uniformity of the fees, but he has also said that he doesn’t think the legislature can pass a reform bill this session. 

We will continue to monitor the issue. For more information, contact Deriece Pate Bennett at dpatebennett@mdchamber.org. 

Legislative Issues Tag: Environment & Energy