Bill > H3476

This bill establishes a new Healthy and Sustainable Schools Office within the Department of Energy Resources to conduct comprehensive energy audits and efficiency improvements for public schools and higher education institutions, with a particular focus on environmental justice communities. The office will be responsible for conducting detailed ventilation verification assessments every five years, which include extensive testing of HVAC systems, air quality, and ventilation rates, and will require schools to implement corrective actions recommended by mechanical engineers. The bill mandates that all contractors and subcontractors must meet strict labor and hiring standards, including using skilled and trained workforce, paying prevailing wages, prioritizing hiring from environmental justice communities, and complying with anti-discrimination laws. The office is authorized to seek public input, aggregate projects for efficiency, apply for various federal and state funding sources, and establish a revolving fund to finance these activities. Contractors are prohibited from performing both energy audits and installations at the same school, and all work must prioritize energy efficiency, renewable energy systems, and improvements to school facilities. The bill defines numerous technical terms and establishes comprehensive guidelines for implementation, with the provisions set to take effect on January 1, 2026.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H3476