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HB 802

State Designations - State Carnivorous Plant - Purple Pitcherplant

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Nick Allen and 11 co-sponsors

Maryland would designate the Purple Pitcherplant as the official state carnivorous plant, creating a ceremonial symbol with no regulatory or funding consequences.

Hearing 3/13 at 3:00 p.m.
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Bill Summary · HB 802

Legislative bill overview

HB 802 designates the Purple Pitcherplant (Sarracenia purpurea) as Maryland's official state carnivorous plant. This symbolic designation would make Maryland one of the few states to officially recognize a carnivorous plant species as a state symbol.

Why is this important

State symbols carry educational and cultural significance, potentially raising awareness about native plant species and wetland ecosystems. The Purple Pitcherplant is native to Maryland's coastal plains and pocosins, making this designation relevant to state ecology and conservation messaging.

Potential points of contention

  • Legislative Priority: Critics may question whether symbolic designations warrant legislative time and hearing resources when other pressing state issues exist
  • Practical Impact: The bill has no regulatory or funding mechanisms—it is purely ceremonial with no measurable policy outcome
  • Selection Rationale: No clear explanation provided for why this species should be prioritized over other native carnivorous plants or endangered species that might benefit from legislative attention

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

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