Bill > SB722

This bill defines the term "ecological restoration" in Maryland law as an activity aimed at recovering, re-establishing, or enhancing ecosystems that have been degraded, damaged, or destroyed. Specifically, the bill outlines three primary methods of ecological restoration: (1) making improvements to physical, chemical, or biological characteristics or processes of an ecosystem, (2) returning natural or historical functions or services to an ecosystem, or (3) protecting or improving the ecosystem's resiliency. The bill eliminates a previous section that would have required the Department of the Environment to update regulations to incorporate this new definition. The definition provides a clear, comprehensive framework for understanding and implementing ecosystem restoration efforts, which can be crucial for environmental conservation and climate adaptation. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, giving state agencies and environmental professionals time to understand and prepare for the new statutory definition.

Education, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0722?ys=2025RS