The ECM Committee convened on January 23, 2025, to discuss several key legislative proposals aimed at addressing climate change and its economic impacts in Maryland. The session began with a presentation on a proposed bill to establish a mitigation fund, primarily funded through cost recovery payments from polluters. This fund is intended to support various initiatives, including the transition to zero-emission school buses and the installation of clean energy retrofits in buildings. Proponents argue that these investments will stimulate economic activity, save money for ratepayers, and contribute to the growth of the clean energy economy.

Reverend Ken Phelps of the Episcopal Diocese of Maryland expressed strong support for the bill, emphasizing the moral obligation to hold those who have ignored climate science accountable for the consequences faced by vulnerable communities. He shared a personal story about his family's loss due to wildfires in California, underscoring the urgency of addressing climate change.

Jorge Aguilar, representing Food and Water Watch, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the financial burdens that municipalities face as they adapt to climate-related challenges. He urged the committee to consider the long-term costs of inaction and to support the bill as a means of raising necessary funds to address these pressing issues.

Valerie Fox, a concerned resident, voiced her belief that taxpayers should not bear the costs of fossil fuel companies' reckless practices, reinforcing the call for accountability in the proposed legislation.

Stacey Hartwell from the South County Environmental Justice Coalition highlighted the disproportionate impact of climate change on Black and brown communities, advocating for the bill as a step toward addressing these inequities. She provided examples of local government expenditures aimed at combating flooding and enhancing resilience, illustrating the urgent need for action.

Justin Flagg, representing New York State Senator Liz Krueger, shared insights from New York's Climate Change Superfund Act, which aims to alleviate the financial burden of climate adaptation costs on residents by making polluters pay. He emphasized that the costs associated with climate change are already being borne by taxpayers, and the proposed measures would provide much-needed relief.

The meeting concluded without further questions for the panel, marking a significant step in the legislative process for the proposed climate initiatives. The committee is expected to issue a favorable report on the bill, paving the way for further discussions and potential implementation of these critical measures to combat climate change in Maryland.