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HB 167

Gasoline-Powered Leaf Blowers - Purchase and Use - Prohibitions

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Linda Foley

Maryland bill HB 167 bans purchasing and operating gasoline-powered leaf blowers to reduce air pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and noise pollution.

Hearing 2/17 at 1:00 p.m.
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Bill Summary · HB 167

Legislative bill overview

HB 167 proposes to prohibit the purchase and use of gasoline-powered leaf blowers in Maryland. The bill would effectively phase out this category of equipment, likely replacing them with electric or battery-powered alternatives. This represents an environmental and noise pollution mitigation measure at the state level.

Why is this important

Gasoline-powered leaf blowers contribute to air pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and noise pollution in residential and commercial areas. A statewide prohibition would align Maryland with similar regulations already enacted in California and several municipalities nationwide, potentially influencing regional environmental standards and consumer purchasing patterns.

Potential points of contention

  • Economic impact on landscaping businesses: Landscapers and lawn care companies would face equipment replacement costs and potential operational disruptions during transition periods
  • Consumer freedom and practicality concerns: Opponents may argue that electric alternatives have limited runtime, higher upfront costs, or insufficient power for heavy-duty applications
  • Enforcement challenges: The bill would require mechanisms to monitor compliance and prevent illegal use or importation of prohibited equipment
  • Rural vs. urban applicability: Effectiveness and necessity may vary significantly between densely populated areas and rural communities with different noise tolerance levels

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

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