WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 590

Study on Greenhouse Gas Emissions Economy-Wide Cap-and-Invest Program (Maryland Climate Crisis Equity Act)

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Ben Kramer

Maryland authorizes a study on implementing an economy-wide cap-and-invest greenhouse gas emissions program with focus on equitable revenue distribution impacts.

First Reading Education, Energy, and the Environment
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 590

Legislative bill overview

SB 590 directs Maryland to conduct a comprehensive study on implementing an economy-wide cap-and-invest program for greenhouse gas emissions. The bill requires analysis of how such a program would function across all economic sectors and how revenues could be reinvested, with particular attention to equity impacts on disadvantaged communities. This is a study authorization rather than immediate implementation of a cap-and-invest system.

Why is this important

Cap-and-invest programs (also called cap-and-trade) are a market-based climate policy tool used in other states and regions; Maryland's analysis could inform whether this approach is feasible for meeting its climate goals. The explicit equity focus recognizes that climate policies can have disproportionate costs on low-income and communities of color, making revenue distribution critical to policy design.

Potential points of contention

  • Business compliance costs: Critics worry cap-and-invest programs increase operational expenses for Maryland businesses, potentially affecting competitiveness and job retention versus neighboring states without similar requirements
  • Regressive impact on consumers: Opponents argue that carbon pricing ultimately increases energy and goods costs, placing heavier burdens on lower-income households despite equity provisions
  • Study scope and timeline: Questions about whether the study will adequately examine implementation challenges, enforcement mechanisms, and whether findings will actually lead to legislative action or sit unused

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

Sign in to ask a question.