Bill > SB778

This bill modifies Maryland's existing building energy performance standards law to specifically protect agricultural buildings from certain administrative requirements. The bill defines an "agricultural building" as a structure primarily used for cultivating, manufacturing, processing, or producing agricultural crops, products, or commodities, which includes greenhouses. Under the current law, the Department of Environment was developing standards to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in covered buildings, aiming for a 20% reduction by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2040. The new provision explicitly prohibits the Department from requiring owners, lessors, lessees, or operators of agricultural buildings to apply for an exemption from these standards or to submit any documentation proving their exemption status. This means agricultural buildings are automatically excluded from the building energy performance standards without needing to go through a formal exemption process. The bill will take effect on July 1, 2025, which provides time for implementation and gives agricultural businesses clarity about their regulatory obligations regarding building energy standards.

Education

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0778?ys=2025RS