Maryland House Bill HB1470

Maryland 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/26/22
• Refer: 2/26/22
• Refer: 3/11/22

Caption

State Finance and Procurement - Chesapeake Bay Watershed States - Expenses and Contracts (Quit Polluting My Bay Act of 2022)

Impact

The bill's implications are significant for state finance and procurement laws, particularly regarding the intersection of economic activity and environmental stewardship. By restricting state contracts and reimbursements based on pollution levels, HB1470 sends a clear message about the importance of environmental responsibility. Proponents argue that these measures will incentivize businesses to adopt environmentally friendly practices to maintain eligibility for state contracts. This bill aligns with Maryland's ongoing efforts to protect and restore the Chesapeake Bay, which faces ongoing threats from pollution.

Summary

House Bill 1470, titled the 'Quit Polluting My Bay Act of 2022', seeks to implement stricter regulations concerning state expenditures and contracts in relation to the Chesapeake Bay watershed. The bill mandates that the Standard State Travel Regulations prohibit reimbursement for travel expenses to states identified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as having significant pollution issues. Additionally, it prohibits public bodies from entering into procurement contracts with businesses from such states. This regulatory approach is aimed at fostering environmental compliance and holding businesses accountable for their environmental impact.

Contention

One of the notable points of contention surrounding HB1470 involves the potential economic repercussions for businesses operating in states where pollution levels have drawn federal oversight. Opponents may argue that such regulations could inadvertently restrict competition and raise costs for state contracts, as businesses in cleaner states might have advantages over those in more polluted jurisdictions. Critics could also express concerns about the fairness and effectiveness of penalizing all businesses within a specific geographic area, regardless of their individual environmental practices.