This bill would require major highway capacity projects over 100 million dollars to achieve net-zero or negative greenhouse gas emissions through additional offset programs. If those offsets are not funded at the same time as the project, the project must be delayed.

The bill does not identify a funding source for these new requirements.

At a time when construction materials, fuel, and energy costs are already elevated, SB 59 / HB 437 adds new modeling mandates, offset obligations, and financial uncertainty to Maryland’s transportation program.

If enacted, this legislation could:

• Increase the cost of major highway and bridge projects
• Vehicle miles traveled is not a negative indicator in rural Maryland. It reflects employment, freight movement, tourism, and regional growth. If VMT becomes a penalty trigger, rural areas that depend on personal mobility will be disproportionately affected.
• Delay congestion relief and freight improvements
• Add pressure to the Transportation Trust Fund
• Reduce the number of projects delivered statewide

We support responsible environmental stewardship and emissions reduction. However, policies must be practical, fiscally sustainable, and focused on delivering results for Maryland families and businesses.

Maryland roads carry the vast majority of commuters and freight. Our transportation system must remain reliable, safe, and economically competitive.

Please contact your legislators today and urge them to oppose HB 437.

Tell them you support environmental progress, but you oppose unfunded mandates that increase costs and delay critical transportation investments.

Your voice matters.