The future of the critically important “county consent” bill is at stake in two fast-approaching Annapolis hearings. Senate Bill 229 and its counterpart House Bill 292 would require the State to get approval from the majority of affected counties before constructing a toll road, bridge, or tunnel.
Here’s what you need to know
Just announced: The Senate Finance Committee hearing for SB229 is this Wednesday, Jan. 29 (yes, that soon). Last year, the county consent bill never made it out of committee. This year, the committee has a new chair and the bill has much stronger support among Senators.
The hearing for HB292 is on Feb. 13 in the House Environment and Transportation Committee. The committee is chaired by Kumar Barve (D-17), who last year kept the county consent bill locked in his committee. The bill already has the backing of 54 Delegates. The key is convincing Chair Barve.
The Washington Post just published a fact-challenged editorial opposing the county consent bills. Ben Ross, chair of the Maryland Transit Opportunities Coalition, said, “The county consent bill for toll roads has got our opponents scared!” Read and share Ben’s expert rebuttal.
Actions to take now
If you live in D-17, write or call Chair Kumar Barve ahead of the Feb. 13 hearing on HB292. Tell him to report the bill out of committee so it can be voted on. His contact information is here.
Come to Annapolis on Feb. 13, especially if you live in D-17. A strong turnout of constituents at the hearing will send a clear message to Chair Barve. Look for specifics about time and place in coming newsletters.
Contact your Senator before the Jan. 29 hearing on SB229 and tell them to support the county consent bill.
Read The Myth of 73 Hours about MDOT’s mistaken estimates of how much time the proposed toll lanes would save commuters.