Bill > HB84

This bill establishes new requirements for major highway capacity expansion projects in Maryland, focusing on climate and transportation impact assessments. The legislation requires the Department of Transportation to develop a multimodal transportation program for any major highway expansion project costing over $100 million, which must offset the project's greenhouse gas emissions to zero or a negative number. The bill introduces new definitions for terms like "induced demand" (an increase in motor vehicle travel due to roadway expansion) and requires comprehensive impact assessments that evaluate how proposed transportation projects affect greenhouse gas emissions and vehicle miles traveled per capita. Beginning in fiscal year 2027, the Department must evaluate major capital projects and set annual statewide and regional greenhouse gas emission reduction targets, incorporating assumptions about electric vehicle use. The bill prioritizes investments in transit, pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure, transit-oriented development, and other activities that demonstrably reduce greenhouse gas emissions, with a particular focus on supporting overburdened and underserved communities. Additionally, the legislation requires the Secretary of Transportation to establish processes for conducting capacity expansion impact assessments and publish detailed information about multimodal transportation programs on the department's website. The bill aims to align Maryland's transportation infrastructure planning with its climate pollution reduction goals by encouraging more sustainable and climate-conscious transportation development.

Budget and Finance

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0084?ys=2025RS