Maryland Senate Bill SB366

Maryland 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/21/22
• Refer: 1/21/22

Caption

Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays 2010 Trust Fund - Use of Funds (Chesapeake Bay Lockbox Protection Act of 2022)

Impact

If enacted, this legislation would restrict the transfer of funds from the Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays Trust Fund to the state’s General Fund or other special funds, except under specific conditions which include a declaration of fiscal emergency by the Governor and approval from the General Assembly. This ensures that money allocated for pollution control projects remains dedicated to its original purpose, highlighting a significant legislative step towards enhanced environmental stewardship.

Summary

Senate Bill 366, known as the Chesapeake Bay Lockbox Protection Act of 2022, aims to establish the Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays 2010 Trust Fund. This fund is intended to provide financial resources for nonpoint source pollution control projects across Maryland. The bill highlights a commitment to bolster the state's environmental efforts by focusing on cleaning up and improving the health of the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries, which are crucial for both ecosystem health and local economies reliant on waterways.

Contention

Debate around SB366 may arise from concerns about the conditions under which funds can be diverted, potentially leading to arguments regarding the need for flexibility in state budgeting during fiscal emergencies. While proponents view the bill as a protective measure for environmental funding, critics may argue that the stringent controls could hinder the state's ability to address urgent budgetary needs or emergencies, thus creating a contentious issue within the legislative assembly.