Maryland 2024 Regular Session

Maryland Senate Bill SB20

Introduced

1/10/24

Refer

1/10/24

Report Pass

2/12/24

Engrossed

2/15/24

Refer

2/16/24

Report Pass

3/27/24

Enrolled

4/1/24

Chaptered

5/16/24

Passed

5/16/24

Caption

Environment - Cox Creek Citizens Oversight Committee - Alterations

Impact

The passage of SB20 is expected to create a structured framework for monitoring dredging activities, which have implications for both environmental health and local economies. With the formation of the oversight committee, the state aims to facilitate communication between the Maryland Port Administration and affected communities, ensuring that concerns about dredged material management are addressed effectively. This measure reflects Maryland's commitment to environmental stewardship while balancing the interests of maritime activities and community welfare.

Summary

Senate Bill 20 aims to establish a Cox Creek Citizens Oversight Committee to oversee the management of dredged materials in the Cox Creek area of Maryland. The committee will consist of various stakeholders, including representatives from local communities, business associations, and environmental organizations, ensuring diverse input and monitoring of dredging activities. A significant aspect of this bill is its goal to enhance community involvement in environmental decisions that affect local resources and residents' quality of life.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around SB20 appears to be supportive among environmental advocates and local community representatives. Supporters view the establishment of the oversight committee as a positive step toward accountability and transparency in managing dredged materials. However, there may also be underlying concerns about the effectiveness of the committee and whether it can truly influence state administration decisions, which may lead to contention among stakeholders in future discussions.

Contention

While SB20 promotes community oversight, potential points of contention may arise regarding the actual authority and effectiveness of the oversight committee. Critics could argue that if the committee lacks the power to enforce recommendations, it may not fulfill its intended purpose. Furthermore, differing opinions on dredging practices and the associated environmental impacts could lead to heated debates among stakeholders, emphasizing the need for continuous dialogue as implementation progresses.

Companion Bills

MD HB343

Crossfiled Environment - Dredged Material - Containment, Redeposit, and Oversight

Previously Filed As

MD HB941

Poplar Island and Mid-Chesapeake Bay Island Citizens Oversight Committee - Establishment

MD HB201

Creation of a State Debt – Maryland Consolidated Capital Bond Loan of 2023, and the Maryland Consolidated Capital Bond Loans of 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2022

MD HB152

Department of Agriculture - Urban Agriculture Grant Programs - Alterations

MD HB1298

Prior Authorizations of State Debt - Alterations

MD SB222

Environment - Statewide Recycling Needs Assessment and Producer Responsibility for Packaging Materials

MD SB7

Environment - On-Site Wastewater Services - Board, Fees, and Penalties

MD HB30

Environment - On-Site Wastewater Services - Board, Fees, and Penalties

MD SB830

Environmental Health Specialists and Well and Septic Systems Permitting - Studies (Environmental Health Systems Support Act of 2023)

MD HB794

Baltimore Regional Transit Commission - Establishment

MD SB19

Equity in Transportation Sector - Guidelines and Analyses

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