Bill > SB363

This bill modifies the Maryland Agricultural and Resource-Based Industry Development Corporation's oyster shucking house loan program by making several key changes. The bill reduces from 5 to 3 years the length of time a seafood dealer must have been licensed to be eligible for financing, and increases the maximum loan amount for seasonal full-time jobs from $10,000 to $25,000. A "seasonal full-time job" is defined as a position requiring at least 420 hours of work during a 12-week period within a 3-month timeframe. The bill aims to support seafood processing projects that help retain oyster shells in the state and return them to the Chesapeake Bay. Loan recipients must report job creation annually for three consecutive years and can have their loans forgiven by returning oyster shells to the Department of Natural Resources or planting spat-on-shell on public fishery bottoms. For fiscal year 2024, the bill requires the Governor to include a $1,000,000 appropriation to the Corporation specifically for these loans, with funds to be used for loan provision and program administration. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and is designed to support and incentivize seafood processing businesses in Maryland.

Education, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0363?ys=2025RS