Bill > HB210

This bill requires the Maryland Department of Labor to adopt, by January 1, 2025, new building standards as part of the Maryland Building Performance Standards. These include a requirement that new buildings meet all their energy demands without the use of fossil fuels, with a phased implementation by October 1, 2026 for buildings under 7 stories and October 1, 2030 for buildings 7 stories or taller. The bill also allows local jurisdictions to grant waivers for certain building types, such as those with emergency backup power or commercial food establishments, but requires those buildings to minimize fossil fuel use, maximize health and safety, and comply with electric-ready standards. The bill also directs the Department to report on any policy changes needed to ensure these new requirements do not diminish affordable housing or electricity affordability for all-electric buildings.