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HB 865

Catastrophic Event Account - Transfer of Funds - State Disaster Recovery Fund

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Dana Jones

Maryland law redirects Catastrophic Event Account funds to the State Disaster Recovery Fund to enhance disaster recovery financial capacity and response capabilities.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 559
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Bill Summary · HB 865

Legislative bill overview

HB 865 authorizes the transfer of funds from Maryland's Catastrophic Event Account to the State Disaster Recovery Fund. The bill was amended during the legislative process and received gubernatorial approval in May 2025, becoming Chapter 559 of Maryland law.

Why is this important

This legislation directly impacts Maryland's financial capacity to respond to and recover from natural disasters and other catastrophic events. By consolidating or redirecting disaster recovery resources, the state can potentially streamline emergency response and recovery operations, though the actual funding amounts and account balances would determine the real-world significance.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding reallocation concerns: Moving funds between accounts may reduce resources available for other catastrophic events if the Catastrophic Event Account cannot be replenished quickly
  • Specificity of amendments: The bill underwent amendments in committee, and details about what those changes entailed are not publicly specified here, raising questions about what was modified and why
  • Disaster recovery priorities: Stakeholders may disagree about whether directing funds to the State Disaster Recovery Fund represents the most effective use of catastrophic event resources versus maintaining separate account autonomy

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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