WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 400

State Finance - Prohibited Appropriations - Magnetic Levitation Transportation System

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Sandy Bartlett and 6 co-sponsors

Maryland prohibits state appropriations for magnetic levitation transportation systems, blocking taxpayer funding for maglev infrastructure development or implementation.

Hearing 2/14 at 1:30 p.m. (Environment and Transportation)
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 400

Legislative bill overview

HB 400 prohibits the State of Maryland from appropriating funds for magnetic levitation (maglev) transportation systems. The bill effectively blocks state spending on maglev infrastructure development, research, or implementation as a transportation solution.

Why is this important

Maglev technology represents a significant capital investment with uncertain ridership and financial sustainability. This prohibition prevents Maryland from committing taxpayer dollars to a high-cost transportation mode before its viability and public demand are firmly established in the state context.

Potential points of contention

  • Technological opportunity cost: Supporters of advanced transit may argue this preemptively eliminates a potentially transformative technology without allowing for proper feasibility studies or pilot programs
  • Regional competitiveness: Other states or regions investing in maglev could gain economic advantages, and Maryland's prohibition might cede leadership in emerging transportation infrastructure
  • Specificity of restriction: Critics may question why this technology receives an explicit ban while other unproven transit investments receive discretionary review, and whether the restriction is too rigid if circumstances change

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

Sign in to ask a question.