One of the first bills I will put in as your delegate is a bill to reduce energy costs!
Maryland Energy Affordability & Community Access Act
To reduce energy costs for Maryland residents, improve utility services, and increase community access to energy efficiency programs through expanded affordability measures, renewable energy incentives, and infrastructure improvements.
Key Provisions:
Lowering Energy Bills for Residents
Ratepayer Relief Program – Provides direct rebates and subsidies for low- and middle-income households to offset rising energy costs.
Utility Rate Transparency & Accountability – Requires public hearings before utility companies can raise rates, ensuring community input.
Seasonal Rate Caps – Limits excessive utility rate increases during peak winter and summer months.
Expanding Community Access to Affordable Energy
Community Solar & Renewable Energy Expansion – Supports solar and wind energy programs for low-income households and renters.
Energy Efficiency Grants – Expands state funding for home weatherization, smart meters, and energy-efficient appliances to help families reduce energy consumption.
Public Utility Assistance Centers – Establishes community hubs where residents can access bill assistance, efficiency programs, and consumer rights resources.
Holding Utility Companies Accountable
Service Improvement Requirements – Mandates that energy providers fix infrastructure issues and report on outages, repairs, and service delays.
Infrastructure Modernization Fund – Allocates state funding to upgrade outdated power grids and expand microgrid technology in underserved areas.
Stronger Consumer Protections – Strengthens oversight on utility shutoffs, ensuring that families are not left without power during extreme weather.
Why This Matters:
Too many Maryland families struggle with high energy costs, unreliable service, and lack of access to energy-saving programs. This bill ensures:
Lower bills for working families
Improved utility service and accountability
Greater access to clean and affordable energy
As State Delegate for District 25, I’m committed to making energy affordability a priority. It’s time for solutions that work for the people—not just utility companies.