Bill > HB62

This bill establishes comprehensive regulations for handling chemical warfare materials (CWMs) in Maryland, defining CWMs as specific toxic chemical agents like Adamsite, GA, GB, and VX, along with their derivatives. The bill recognizes these materials were designed for warfare and pose significant health risks, and therefore mandates strict permitting requirements for their treatment through incineration. Key provisions include requiring permit applicants to demonstrate advanced incineration technology that meets federal and state performance standards, achieving a 99.9999% destruction efficiency, developing robust emergency preparedness plans with public input, and conducting continuous monitoring of incineration processes. Notably, the bill explicitly exempts research facilities conducting incineration for research, development, or demonstration purposes from these extensive requirements. The Department of Environment is granted broad authority to regulate CWMs as controlled hazardous substances, with permits specifically limited to a predetermined quantity and requiring complete facility disassembly after the authorized destruction is complete. Additionally, the bill requires independent third-party review of monitoring data and mandates that permit applicants pay for this review. The regulations aim to ensure the safest possible disposal of these extremely dangerous materials while protecting public health and the environment, with the law set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Transportation and Infrastructure

Environment and Transportation (H)

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0062?ys=2025RS