Bill > H3522

This bill establishes a comprehensive Clean Fuel Standard designed to reduce the carbon intensity of transportation fuels by 80% from 1990 levels by 2050. The legislation creates a market-based credit system where transportation fuel providers can generate or purchase credits based on the carbon intensity of their fuels, measured across the full lifecycle of fuel production and use. Fuel providers must either reduce their carbon emissions or purchase credits to offset their carbon deficits. The bill requires public entities generating credits to invest a portion of their credit value in clean energy and accessible transportation projects in disadvantaged communities. Key definitions are provided, including "carbon intensity" (greenhouse gas emissions per unit of fuel) and "credit" (a metric ton of carbon dioxide equivalent). The standard does not apply to aviation, railroad, military, or interstate waterborne vessel fuels where federal regulations preempt it, but providers in these sectors can voluntarily participate. The Department will establish annual implementation schedules, create a credit trading mechanism, and develop rules and regulations to support the standard's goals, taking into account compliance costs, available technologies, and fuel quality and availability.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H3522