Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity - BURDEN Analysis (CHERISH Our Communities Act)

HB 1287 (CHERISH Our Communities Act) requires developers seeking permits for new power plants in Maryland to submit a BURDEN report with their application if the plant is located in an "at-risk census tract." This report must analyze environmental and health burdens in the area using Maryland's EJ tool, which identifies communities facing multiple pollution and health stressors. The Public Service Commission must deny permits if issuing them would worsen environmental or public health stressors in these overburdened communities. The bill directly affects power plant developers and the Commission, focusing on preventing further harm in neighborhoods already facing significant environmental challenges.