Bill > HB613

This bill, concerning shoreline stabilization in Maryland, aims to promote the use of "living shorelines," which are projects that use natural materials like plants, oyster reefs, and submerged aquatic vegetation to absorb the impact of storms and waves, thereby preventing erosion. It also defines "nonstructural shoreline stabilization measures" as erosion control methods dominated by tidal wetland vegetation designed to preserve the natural shoreline. The bill clarifies that these measures, including living shorelines, are generally preferred for shoreline stabilization projects, especially in areas not designated for structural stabilization by the Department of the Environment. However, it allows for waivers from these requirements if a property owner can demonstrate that living shorelines or nonstructural measures are not feasible for their property, such as in areas with excessive erosion or heavy tides. To facilitate this waiver process, the Department of the Environment is required to adopt regulations that include a waiver process, conduct site visits within 45 days of a waiver request, and notify local soil conservation districts for their recommendations. Furthermore, the Department will develop a scoring system to evaluate waiver requests, outlining the factors considered, their weight, and the minimum score needed to demonstrate infeasibility, though the Department retains discretion to grant waivers even if a project doesn't meet the minimum score. The bill also mandates stakeholder engagement to address challenges in medium- and high-energy environments and improve transparency in the waiver process, with a reporting requirement to legislative committees by December 1, 2026.

Education, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0613?ys=2026RS