Maryland House Bill HB1331

Maryland 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/11/22
• Refer: 2/11/22

Caption

Coal Ash - Use, Recycling, and Management (Coal Ash Recycling Act of 2022)

Impact

The legislation imposes new requirements on contractors and individuals using construction materials, mandating that they give preference to materials containing coal ash when feasible. Moreover, it creates a framework for the Department of the Environment to develop a tracking system for the management and utilization of coal ash, ensuring accountability in its incorporation into public works. This measure is expected to not only support waste recycling initiatives but also foster local employment, as contractors are encouraged to hire local personnel for work related to coal ash usage.

Summary

House Bill 1331, known as the Coal Ash Recycling Act of 2022, addresses the use, recycling, and management of coal ash within the state. The bill mandates that specific construction materials, including those used for shoreline protection and precast concrete, incorporate coal ash. It establishes a necessary preference for these materials in offshore wind projects, with the aim of enhancing the use of coal ash in sustainable practices. The overarching goal of the legislation is to promote environmental responsibility by utilizing this industrial byproduct in state-sponsored projects.

Contention

Although the bill aims to bolster coal ash recycling, points of contention may arise from the implications for contractors who might be resistant to these mandates due to cost or feasibility concerns. Critics may argue about the environmental impact of using coal ash in construction, including potential health effects for workers and communities. Additionally, the obligation to track coal ash use and submit bi-annual reports may pose administrative burdens on contractors, particularly smaller entities that may lack the resources to comply with these requirements.