Bill > HB167

This bill prohibits the State of Maryland from purchasing gasoline-powered leaf blowers starting July 1, 2026, and from using them on state-owned land by the State or its contractors beginning January 1, 2031. A "gasoline-powered leaf blower" is defined as a combustion engine-powered handheld, backpack, or walk-behind device for clearing leaves and grass, including electric blowers powered by gasoline generators, but excluding stationary or tow-behind vacuums, mulchers, debris loaders, or snow blowers. The bill includes exceptions for wildland fire suppression, prescribed burn management, authorized firefighting, and emergency response activities at transportation facilities. Each executive branch agency is responsible for monitoring its compliance, and the bill clarifies that local governments can enact stricter regulations or earlier effective dates, and the State must comply with any local standards that are at least as stringent.

Government Affairs

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0167?ys=2026RS