Vision: A Maryland that doesn't generate carbon pollution from coal plants, protection for marginalized communities in which all of our current coal plants have been sited, and a transition plan for employees of plants slated to close. "Bring good news to the poor, to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free." (Luke 4:18)
Bill Numbers: Senate Bill 887, House Bill 1545
Sponsors: House - Del. Kumar Barve (D), Senate - Sen. Chris West (R)
Click here to see IPC's Testimony in support of the Community Coal Transition bill.
What happened during the 2020 Session?
- Didn't make it out of committee
- This was the first year, so it's not surprising that it died in committee -- still, good first-year steps were made.
- Some promising conversations began with Labor groups, which will continue throughout the year.
- One tiny victory regarding coal: a tax forgiveness measure for coal mining companies is slated to expire at the end of 2020, and an attempt to extend it failed.
If Passed, What Would the Bill Do?
- Close the six remaining coal-fired electric power production facilities in Maryland.
- Provide retraining and transition support for affected workers and communities.
- Result in cleaner air and water in neighboring communities.
Environmental Justice Implications: Coal-fired plants have historically been sited in marginalized communities. The Chalk Point Generating Station was built adjacent to the oldest African-American community in Maryland (Eagle Harbor) and the discharge of the heated water is routed just outside its harbor on the Patuxent River. The Brandon Shores Power Plant and Herbert A. Wagner Generating Station are located near poor and disadvantaged communities in northern Anne Arundel County and southern Baltimore City. Closing these plants is essential in order to truly fight for justice for all people and to eliminate disparities in how healthy the environment is in certain communities.
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