Department of the Environment - Definition of Ecological Restoration

HB 1155 defines "ecological restoration" in Maryland law as activities aimed at recovering, re-establishing, or enhancing degraded, damaged, or destroyed ecosystems. The definition specifically includes improving physical/chemical/biological processes, restoring natural functions, and protecting ecosystem resilience. The bill requires Maryland's Department of the Environment to update existing environmental regulations to incorporate or align with this new definition by October 1, 2025. This affects the department’s regulatory framework and any projects governed by those regulations, but does not create new requirements for landowners or developers. The bill solely clarifies terminology and mandates regulatory consistency.