Bill Positions

Bill Number: SB 539

Bill Title: Driver Relief Act of 2009

Bill Sponsor(s): Sen. Frosh, et al

Subject: Transportation

Committee: EHE

Bill Summary: This bill would have required specified plans and programs to provide for air quality improvement by attaining a specified performance objective of reducing the statewide average of vehicle miles traveled (VMT) by a specified amount by January 1, 2036; would have required a specified schedule for reducing VMT; would have required the Department of the Environment to review and evaluate specified plans and programs for compliance with the Act; and would have authorized the Department to adopt regulations.

History: This bill died without a vote in EHE Committee.

Chamber Position: Oppose

Position Summary: This legislation would have put Maryland at a significant competitive disadvantage with surrounding states, and discouraged the growth of new businesses and detered the expansion of existing businesses. This legislation was counter to BRAC, and expressed no consideration of alternative energy for cars and trucks. It assumed that there is no environmentally sound way to drive a vehicle.

The legislation attempted to steer transportation investment toward non-highway capital improvements (transit investment). Transit is an encouraged form of transportation; however, its promotion should not come at the detriment of highway transportation. This legislation was overbroad and unnecessary.

The fiscal impact of this legislation was significant as well. It would have taken needed funds away from road projects, and added to small business cost at a time when businesses are struggling to survive.

A reduction in vehicle miles traveled should not be mandated by legislation. It is already driven by need in the market. Drivers adapt to current their circumstances. Today, people drive due to necessity. A legislative mandate on vehicle miles traveled was misguided and unnecessary. For these reasons, the Maryland Chamber opposed this bill.

Position Statement:Click here (pdf)

Chamber Staff: Allyson Black

General Assembly: Click here to view the bill on the Maryland General Assembly's website.