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SB 799

Water Companies and Sewage Disposal Companies - Eminent Domain Proceedings and Service Rates

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Mike McKay

SB 799 modifies eminent domain procedures and rate-setting rules for Maryland water and sewage companies, affecting property acquisition processes and utility billing practices.

Hearing 3/03 at 1:00 p.m.
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Bill Summary · SB 799

Legislative bill overview

SB 799 modifies Maryland's laws governing how water and sewage companies can exercise eminent domain authority and sets procedures for their service rate determinations. The bill appears to establish new procedural requirements or limitations on these utilities' ability to acquire property and regulate how they set rates for customers.

Why is this important

Eminent domain and rate-setting directly affect property owners and utility customers. Changes to these processes can shift the balance between utilities' operational needs and residents' property rights and affordability concerns. This impacts both individual property owners who may face land acquisition and households' utility bills.

Potential points of contention

  • Utilities vs. property owners: Stricter eminent domain procedures may slow infrastructure projects but better protect landowner rights, creating tension between service expansion and property rights
  • Rate regulation authority: Changes to rate-setting could affect utility revenues needed for maintenance and improvements versus customer bills and affordability
  • Geographic disparities: Rules affecting water/sewage companies may impact rural versus urban areas differently given service area variations

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

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