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Bill

HB 1023

Environment - Wetlands - Landward Boundaries

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Chris Adams and 1 co-sponsor

HB 1023 modifies Maryland's wetland landward boundary definitions, affecting development restrictions and property rights across the state.

Hearing 2/26 at 1:00 p.m.
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Bill Summary · HB 1023

Legislative bill overview

HB 1023 addresses the landward boundaries of wetlands in Maryland, likely modifying how the state defines or measures where wetlands begin on land. The bill has been introduced with a scheduled hearing before the Environment and Transportation Committee on February 26, 2025. Specific statutory changes are not yet detailed in the available action history.

Why is this important

Wetland boundary definitions directly affect property rights, development restrictions, and conservation protections. Landowners, developers, and environmental agencies all have significant stakes in how these boundaries are drawn, as they determine what lands are subject to wetland regulations and permitting requirements. Clarifying or adjusting these boundaries could impact thousands of properties and projects across Maryland.

Potential points of contention

  • Property owner concerns: Stricter or expanded boundary definitions could restrict development or agricultural use on private land
  • Environmental protection debate: Narrower boundaries might reduce wetland protections, while expansion could increase regulatory burden on landowners
  • Implementation and enforcement: Changes may require expensive re-mapping of existing wetlands and reassessment of current permits and property deeds

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

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