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Bill

SB 288

Transportation - Highway User Revenues Capital Grants - Calculation

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Cory McCray

SB 288 revises Maryland's Highway User Revenue capital grant calculation formula, redistributing state transportation funding to counties and municipalities based on modified criteria.

Hearing 2/03 at 2:00 p.m.
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Bill Summary · SB 288

Legislative bill overview

SB 288 modifies how Maryland calculates and distributes Highway User Revenue (HUR) capital grants to counties and municipalities. The bill adjusts the formula or methodology used to determine which jurisdictions receive highway funding and in what amounts. This is a technical fiscal bill that restructures state transportation fund allocation mechanisms.

Why is this important

Highway User Revenue capital grants are a primary funding source for local road maintenance and improvements across Maryland. Changes to the calculation formula directly affect how much money each county and city receives for transportation infrastructure, potentially shifting resources between wealthy and less wealthy jurisdictions. Communities dependent on these grants may face budget constraints or windfalls depending on whether the formula favors or disadvantages their region.

Potential points of contention

  • Rural vs. urban equity: The new calculation may disproportionately benefit urban areas with higher population density or disadvantage rural counties with longer road networks relative to population
  • Existing funding disruption: Jurisdictions currently receiving substantial grants may lose funding if the formula redistributes resources, creating local opposition from affected communities
  • Transparency of methodology: The specific calculation changes may be complex, raising questions about whether the new formula is truly equitable and whether stakeholders had adequate input in its design

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

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