Bill > SB966

This bill introduces several changes to environmental permit processes and property taxation specifically for Howard County, Maryland. For air quality control permits, the bill requires the Department of the Environment to automatically provide an informational meeting for applications in Howard County, with the option to cancel only if Howard County delegation members request it. The bill mandates that Howard County must hold a public meeting before verifying zoning and land use requirements for permit applications, giving interested parties an opportunity to provide testimony. Additionally, permit holders operating within one mile of residential-zoned property must provide annual emissions reports to relevant community associations. The bill also authorizes Howard County's governing body to grant a property tax credit for owner-occupied residential properties located within one-half mile of sites with certain environmental permits, with the county required to develop specific criteria for implementing this credit. Finally, the bill requires Howard County to report by January 1, 2026, on its potential authority to adopt more restrictive ambient air quality standards than those set by state law. The legislation is set to take effect at various dates in 2025, with different sections becoming applicable in June and October of that year.

Education

Howard County Senators

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0966?ys=2025RS