Natural Resources - Maryland Heritage Areas Authority - Funding and Grants

SB 980 authorizes the Maryland Heritage Areas Authority to provide grants and loans to local jurisdictions and organizations managing certified heritage areas for activities like preservation, restoration, and marketing. The bill increases grant limits to 80% of project costs (from 50%) and sets a $300,000 maximum per grant, while reducing the percentage of Program Open Space funds that can cover the Authority’s operating expenses from 10% to 7%. It also adjusts funding rules to allow up to 50% of Program Open Space funds for debt service on Authority bonds. This bill directly affects local heritage area management entities and the Authority’s financial operations under Maryland’s natural resources funding framework.