Maryland's legislative session starts this Wednesday! For the following 90 days, we'll be working to get important legislation passed for clean air, clean water, and healthy communities.
Septic Systems: Septic systems play an important role in protecting water quality, public health, and home values. Unfortunately, Maryland's approach to regulating them has created a situation where problematic systems fail, fixes are financially out of reach, and consumers (and the environment) are left to suffer the consequences. We are supporting efforts to create a regulatory board to manage licensing, certification, and training within the industry, a database to track existing and proposed septic systems, and increased investment in low or no interest loans to help people fix broken and polluting systems.
Compost: As part of our campaign to reduce Maryland's reliance on trash incineration and landfills, we have targeted compost as a waste strategy that reduces methane emissions, creates a soil amendment, and can be expanded sustainably. In 2022, we are looking to expand the opportunities for on-farm compost operations and for compost and food waste reduction in schools.
Renewable Energy: Over the years, many dirty sources of energy have been added to Maryland's Renewable Portfolio, including burning trash, methane, and poop. We cannot burn our way to a healthier climate, and it is time for Maryland to direct its subsidies for renewable energy to clean, renewable sources like wind, solar, and geothermal.
Maryland Environmental Justice: As part of the Maryland Environmental Justice Table, we are supporting initiatives to direct investment in underserved and overburdened communities and for an equity analysis for future transportation decisions.
Data Collection: As part of our work with Marylanders for Food and Farmworker Protection, we are asking the state to collect industry and occupational information with regards to COVID-19 and future infectious diseases. Using standardized data would enable the state to target interventions among the populations who need it most.
Letters and calls from members like you to legislators are critical to passing strong legislation. Click the links above to make your voice heard!
