Charter Counties - Enforcement of Local Building Performance Laws (Building Energy Performance Standards Act of 2022)
Impact
The bill's introduction marks a significant shift towards empowering charter counties to implement stringent energy performance standards tailored to local needs. If enacted, HB61 would enable counties to actively enforce these regulations by penalizing property owners who fail to comply, which could lead to improved energy consumption practices across residential and commercial establishments. These changes are expected to foster energy-efficient building practices and encourage investment in sustainable infrastructure, contributing to broader climate objectives.
Summary
House Bill 61, also known as the Building Energy Performance Standards Act of 2022, proposes that charter counties in Maryland be authorized to enforce local building performance laws. This bill allows counties to impose civil fines for non-compliance with these local standards, specifically allowing charges up to $10 per square foot based on the gross floor area of the building in violation. The main aim of this legislation is to enhance energy efficiency in building operations, thereby positively impacting the environment and potentially reducing energy costs for occupants over time.
Contention
However, discussions around HB61 may bring forth contention regarding the balance of power between state legislation and local autonomy. Some stakeholders may argue that while energy performance standards are crucial for environmental sustainability, empowering local governments to impose fines may lead to inconsistent regulations across counties. Additionally, potential opponents could raise concerns about the financial burden on property owners or the feasibility of implementing such specific laws without adequate support and resources from state authorities.