Maryland 2023 Regular Session

Maryland House Bill HB874

Introduced
2/9/23  
Refer
2/9/23  
Report Pass
3/18/23  
Engrossed
3/20/23  
Refer
3/20/23  
Report Pass
3/30/23  
Enrolled
4/8/23  
Chaptered
5/16/23  

Caption

Office of the Attorney General - Environmental and Natural Resources Crimes Unit - Establishment

Impact

If enacted, this bill will significantly strengthen the state's ability to address criminal violations of environmental laws. The unit will be empowered to operate with the same authority as a state's attorney, including the ability to issue subpoenas and utilize grand juries. This represents a notable shift in how environmental crimes are handled at the state level, giving the Attorney General's office more resources and authority in prosecuting offenders. The establishment of this unit underlines the importance of enforcement in environmental policy and aims to provide stronger accountability for those who violate environmental laws.

Summary

House Bill 874 proposes the establishment of the Environmental and Natural Resources Monitoring Crimes Unit under the Office of the Attorney General in Maryland. This new unit is designed to investigate and prosecute violations of state environmental and natural resources laws. Its functions will include working closely with the Maryland Department of the Environment and the Department of Natural Resources, especially in civil cases concerning environmental violations. The establishment of this unit aligns with Maryland's ongoing commitment to enhancing environmental protection and enforcement of existing laws.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 874 appears generally supportive, especially among environmental advocates and those concerned with state pollution enforcement measures. Legislators and community members who prioritize environmental protection view this bill as a necessary step toward addressing growing environmental challenges. However, there is also some concern regarding the potential ramifications of granting extensive prosecutorial powers to the Attorney General's office and how this might affect the balance of power in environmental governance.

Contention

Notable points of contention involve ensuring that the newly created unit operates transparently and effectively without overreach. Opponents may express worries about the implications of increased enforcement, especially concerning its impact on businesses, which may face stricter regulations and penalties. The balance between environmental protection and business interests could lead to further discussions in legislative sessions, prompting debates over the extent of powers granted to this unit.

Companion Bills

MD SB611

Crossfiled Office of the Attorney General - Environmental and Natural Resources Crimes Unit - Establishment

Previously Filed As

MD SB611

Office of the Attorney General - Environmental and Natural Resources Crimes Unit - Establishment

MD SB653

Standing - Environmental and Natural Resources Protection Proceedings (Clean Water Justice Act of 2024)

MD HB1101

Standing - Environmental and Natural Resources Protection Proceedings (Clean Water Justice Act of 2024)

MD HB1266

Office of the Attorney General - Violent Crimes Special Prosecution Unit for Baltimore City

MD HB503

Natural Resources - Greenspace Equity Program - Establishment

MD SB1649

Attorney General; adding certain duties for Office of Attorney General. Emergency.

MD HB701

Maryland Community Health Resources Commission and Offices of the Comptroller, Treasurer, and Attorney General - Compensation and Pay Scales of Employees

MD SF0107

Attorney general-elected official.

MD SB470

Natural Resources - Land Conservation - Establishment of Goals and Programs (Maryland the Beautiful Act)

MD SB290

Office of the Attorney General - Independent Investigations Division - Authority to Prosecute

Similar Bills

CA AB2636

Attorney General: Environmental Justice Fund.

CA AB3136

Attorney General: Bureau of Environmental Justice.

CA AB157

State government.

CA SB157

Crime prevention: enforcement and training programs.

CA AB1628

Environmental justice.

MD SB611

Office of the Attorney General - Environmental and Natural Resources Crimes Unit - Establishment

HI SB2618

Relating To The Department Of The Attorney General.

HI SB1480

Relating To The Environment.