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SB 371

Water Pollution Control - Discharge Permits - Animal Feeding Operations

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Mary Beth Carozza and 3 co-sponsors

SB 371 modifies discharge permit requirements for large livestock operations in Maryland, affecting water pollution controls and agricultural industry compliance standards.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 253
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Bill Summary · SB 371

Legislative bill overview

SB 371 modifies Maryland's water pollution control regulations specifically targeting concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs). The bill appears to adjust discharge permit requirements and oversight mechanisms for large-scale livestock facilities that generate substantial animal waste. The exact scope of changes requires the full bill text, but the focus suggests either relaxing or restructuring pollution control standards for these operations.

Why is this important

CAFOs represent a significant source of water pollution through nitrogen and phosphorus runoff, which contaminate rivers, streams, and the Chesapeake Bay—a critical environmental and economic resource for Maryland. How Maryland regulates these facilities directly affects water quality, public health, and compliance costs for agricultural operations. This bill will influence the balance between agricultural economic interests and environmental protection in the state.

Potential points of contention

  • Environmental advocates vs. industry: Stricter permitting could increase compliance costs for farmers but strengthen water quality protections; relaxed standards create the opposite tension
  • Chesapeake Bay restoration goals: Any changes must align with federal Bay cleanup commitments, creating potential conflicts if standards are weakened
  • Rural economic impact: Permit requirements affect farm profitability and operational flexibility, particularly for mid-sized livestock producers in Maryland's agricultural regions

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

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