The O'Malley administration wanted to dedicate a new $140 million-a-year fund to helping consumers and businesses improve their energy efficiency. But amid worries about skyrocketing electricity rates, the bill nearly failed altogether and was resurrected after lawmakers diverted some of the money to rate relief and energy assistance programs for the poor.
Chesapeake Bay cleanup
Lawmakers voted in November to dedicate $50 million a year to prevent agricultural runoff from entering the bay. But with the poor economy cutting into state tax receipts, the General Assembly voted to cut the fund in half.
Pollution control
Last year, legislators voted to ban phosphates from dishwasher detergent. This year, to appease large companies such as Procter & Gamble, which has a manufacturing plant in Hunt Valley, legislators voted to delay the restriction by six months, which the state estimates will allow an extra 7 tons of pollution in the Chesapeake Bay.
Environmental bills pending in the General Assembly
Global Warming - Requires reduction in greenhouse gas emissions 25 percent by 2020, with a goal of 90 percent by 2050. Amended to require legislative review of plans to reach goals. Passed Senate, pending in House. Critical Area - Overhauls Chesapeake Bay shoreline development curbs. Amended to reduce expansion of waterfront buffer, retain local control of enforcement and exempt many wooden decks from restrictions. Passed the General Assembly and is headed to the governor for his signature. Energy - A package of bills would set goals for reducing energy consumption in the state, increase reliance on renewable energy and dedicate funding to energy efficiency and conservation programs. House and Senate have passed different versions, and need to find compromise. Green Buildings - Requires energy-efficient and environmentally friendly design and materials for new state buildings and public schools. Passed the General Assembly and is headed to the governor for his signature. Chesapeake Bay Fund - Legislators have mostly agreed on funding efforts to curb polluted runoff from farmland and lawns, but budget crisis cut the $50 million fund in half. House and Senate have passed their own versions with minor differences.
