In early April, Maryland Governor Larry Hogan signed into law SB 323, the Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Act, mandating a statewide gas emission reduction of 40 percent from 2006 levels by 2030. This bipartisan legislation, which was supported by the Maryland Departments of the Environment, Agriculture, and Natural Resources, stems from a recommendation of the Maryland Commission on Climate Change and enhances the 2009 Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Act.
Under the law, the Maryland Commission on Climate Change is required to oversee a study of the economic impact of requiring specified reductions from the manufacturing sector. The law is expected to help create and maintain tens of thousands of jobs and represents a balanced, science-based approach to reduce carbon pollution.
“These important pieces of legislation will have a profound impact on preserving our environment, while creating jobs and protecting our business community,” said Governor Hogan. “I want to thank both the Senate and House for supporting our initiatives.” [Miller/Parisien]
