Bill > SB853

This bill modifies Maryland's public utilities law by establishing new restrictions on the construction of overhead transmission lines. Specifically, the Public Service Commission (PSC) is now prohibited from authorizing, and persons are prohibited from undertaking, the construction of an overhead transmission line outside of an existing transmission line right-of-way unless the applicant can adequately demonstrate to the Commission that existing transmission line rights-of-way are insufficient for the proposed line. If the Commission determines that an existing transmission line right-of-way is indeed insufficient, it may authorize construction of a new overhead transmission line within 0.25 miles of an existing overhead transmission line. The bill also maintains existing provisions that allow local counties and municipal corporations to approve or deny local permits required for such projects, while preventing these local governments from conditioning permit approvals on certain types of zone or use approvals. These new regulations aim to encourage more efficient use of existing infrastructure and limit unnecessary expansion of transmission line rights-of-way. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, providing time for utilities and regulatory bodies to prepare for the new requirements.

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https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0853?ys=2025RS