HB 405 prevents condo and HOA governing bodies from unreasonably blocking electric vehicle (EV) charger installations in common or limited common use parking areas. It requires boards to follow regular budget processes and confirm sufficient parking availability before installing chargers. The law also allows boards to grant 3-year renewable licenses for necessary common elements (like electrical supply) for EV equipment. This applies retroactively to existing restrictions and takes effect October 1, 2026, directly affecting condo/HOA communities and their residents.
SB 625 requires Maryland's Department of the Environment to adopt regulations by January 1, 2028, for permitting carbon removal technologies and practices certified by an internationally recognized third party. It also mandates that all state agencies use available funding to support carbon removal projects using these certified technologies. The bill directly affects the Department of the Environment (which must create the regulations) and state agencies (which must redirect funding toward qualifying projects). This legislation establishes a framework for integrating carbon removal into state environmental and funding policies.
SB 223 transfers administration of the Jane E. Lawton Conservation Loan Program from the Maryland Energy Administration to the Maryland Clean Energy Center. The bill moves the program’s legal authority to the Maryland Clean Energy Center, repeals the Energy Administration’s regulatory power over the program, and updates reporting requirements for the related Maryland Strategic Energy Investment Fund. The program itself continues to provide low-interest loans to nonprofit organizations, local governments, state agencies, and eligible businesses for energy efficiency projects that reduce fossil fuel use and greenhouse gas emissions. This change is purely administrative and does not alter the program’s eligibility criteria, loan terms, or funding mechanisms.
SB 553 reestablishes the Commission to Advance Lithium-Ion Battery Safety in Maryland with updated membership and a focus on safety improvements. The commission, composed of representatives from environmental agencies, fire departments, battery manufacturers, recycling groups, insurance companies, and transportation stakeholders, will study and recommend solutions for preventing lithium-ion battery fires in consumer products, transportation, and utility settings. Key areas include safety standards for recycling facilities, battery reuse practices, and the impact of battery risks on insurance coverage. The commission must submit an interim report by December 1, 2026, to inform future policy decisions. This bill creates a study group to guide safety improvements without enacting immediate regulatory changes.
HB 648 lowers the qualifying age for Maryland's energy assistance program enrollment from 65 to 60 years old. It requires the Office of Home Energy Programs to create a standardized annual review process specifically for eligible residents aged 60 and older. This change directly affects older Marylanders who need help with utility costs but previously had to wait until age 65 to access the streamlined enrollment process. The bill amends Section 5-5A-09(a) of Maryland's Annotated Code to implement this age adjustment, effective July 1, 2026.
HB 817 requires Maryland's Department of the Environment to create permitting regulations for certified carbon removal technologies and practices by January 1, 2028. It mandates all state agencies to use existing funding to support carbon removal projects using technologies certified by internationally recognized third parties. The bill directly affects state agencies (which must allocate funds) and carbon removal technology providers (which must meet certification standards to qualify for permits). It aims to streamline regulatory processes by replacing outdated solid waste rules with new, technology-specific requirements.
