Maryland 2023 Regular Session

Maryland House Bill HB873

Introduced
2/9/23  
Refer
2/9/23  
Report Pass
4/3/23  
Engrossed
4/4/23  
Refer
4/4/23  

Caption

Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission - Prince George's County - Commissioner Qualifications MC/PG 108-23

Impact

The bill also empowers the general manager of the Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission with voting rights identical to those of the commissioners, with specific exceptions regarding decisions affecting the salary of top leadership. This reform may streamline decision-making processes within the Commission and is designed to enhance the management of public utilities in the region. It is expected to bolster overall accountability within the Commission's governance structure.

Summary

House Bill 873, concerning the Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission, introduces specific qualifications for commissioners representing Prince George's County to enhance the operational effectiveness of the commission. It stipulates that at least one commissioner must possess advanced education or relevant professional experience in fields such as environmental sciences or utility management. This aims to ensure that the appointed commissioners are equipped with the knowledge necessary to handle the complexities of public utilities efficiently.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 873 appears to be predominantly positive among supporters who view it as a necessary legislative action to professionalize the governance of the sanitary commission. By ensuring that commissioners carry relevant qualifications, the bill is perceived to improve the quality of oversight and decision-making in utility management. However, there may be concerns about the extent of power granted to the general manager, which could lead to debates on the balance of authority within the Commission.

Contention

While the bill passed unanimously in the House, discussions surrounding the qualifications and the implications of granting significant voting powers to the general manager may have elicited differing opinions, particularly on how these changes might affect local governance. Critics could raise questions about maintaining a democratic process within the Commission and the balance of power between appointed officials and managerial staff.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MD HB1007

Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission – Membership – Alterations MC/PG 110–23

MD HB1168

Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission – Service Charges MC/PG 112–25

MD HB535

Washington Suburban Transit Commission - Montgomery County and Prince George's County Commissioners - Repeal of Term Limit PG/MC 111-22

MD HB1195

Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission - Membership, Reporting, Billing, and Planning (WSSC Planning and Reporting Act of 2025) MC/PG 105-25

MD HB1230

Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission - System Development Charge - Exemptions MC/PG 107-25

MD HB1023

Prince George's County and Montgomery County - The Washington Suburban Transit Commission Reform Act PG/MC 103-24

MD HB872

Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission - Service Near Regional Transit Districts and Neighborhood Centers in Prince George's County - Contracts MC/PG 111-23

MD HB783

Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission – Minority Business Enterprise Utilization Program – Revisions and Extension MC/PG 101–23

MD HB526

Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission - Plumbing and Fuel Gas Services - Licenses and Penalties PG/MC 109-22

MD HB1064

Montgomery County Planning Board and Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission - Open Meetings - Live Streaming Requirement MC/PG 101-25

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