Bills we are monitoring this week 02/17/2025
✅ Supporting Legislation
• HB 1466 / SB 891 – Expanding Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
• These bills promote housing availability by requiring local jurisdictions to allow ADUs on single-family properties, streamlining zoning and permitting. AIA Maryland supports this effort to expand housing choices and affordability.
🚨 Opposing Legislation
• HB 1414 / HB 1415 – Weakening Building Energy Performance Standards
• These bills propose exemptions for certain buildings from complying with Maryland’s Building Energy Performance Standards (BEPS), delaying progress on energy efficiency and emissions reduction. AIA Maryland opposes these exemptions to ensure continued commitment to sustainability.
• HB 1451 / SB 779 – Weakening Climate Policy Accountability
• These bills introduce “economic feasibility” clauses into Maryland’s climate policies, which could reduce accountability for meeting climate goals. AIA Maryland opposes these changes to protect Maryland’s leadership in climate resilience.
👀 Monitoring Legislation
• SB 952 – Advancing Grid-Enhancing Technologies
• Requires the Public Service Commission (PSC) to consider grid-enhancing technologies in new overhead transmission line approvals. We are monitoring this to ensure responsible energy infrastructure development.
• HB 1436 – Adjusting School Construction Costs for Inflation
• This bill would require annual adjustments to school construction budgets to reflect real cost changes. AIA Maryland is monitoring to ensure adequate funding for school facilities.
• HB 1446 – Tax Credits for Relocating Businesses
• Establishes a state tax credit for businesses moving to Maryland. We are monitoring for its impact on economic growth and development.
• SB 716 – Adding Nuclear Energy to the Renewable Portfolio Standard
• This bill would classify nuclear energy as a Tier 1 renewable source. AIA Maryland is reviewing the implications for clean energy initiatives.
AIA Maryland Testimony
HB0049– Letter of Support
HB0061- Letter of Support
HB0155 – Letter of Support
HB0277 – Letter of Support
HB0489 – Letter of Support
SB0096 – Letter of Support
SB0247 – Letter of Support
On February 13th, Chris Parts, AIA, testified on bill SB0256 – Building Energy Performance Standards – Compliance and Reporting., on behalf of AIA Maryland. He presented testimony and answered most questions posed to the group.
Future Forward Conference and Expo
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Sponsorships available!
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Not just a Political Action Committee
The Maryland Architects PAC Protects Architects Careers.
Founded in 1995, the Maryland Architects PAC partners with AIA Maryland to achieve legislative goals, aiding architects in electing supportive legislators. Financial contributions are vital for promoting Maryland architects’ interests and enhancing the state’s architectural practice.
Every donation, big or small, helps support this cause.
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