Maddy summaryHB 695 repeals a requirement that Maryland's motor fuel tax rates automatically increase annually based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI), changing how fuel tax revenue is calculated. The bill bans vehicle-miles-traveled (VMT) taxes and similar fees, including requiring devices to track mileage in private vehicles. It also sets specific farebox recovery targets for the Maryland Transit Administration (MTA), limits when MTA can raise fares, and removes public hearing requirements for certain fare changes. This directly affects drivers (through fuel tax changes), MTA (via fare rules), and local governments (by prohibiting new transportation fees). The bill modifies existing tax and transportation laws without adding new funding mechanisms.
Del. Charles Otto
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryThis bill modifies Maryland's tax exemption for parts and equipment used to repair, maintain, or upgrade aircraft. It keeps the exemption in place for smaller planes under 12,500 pounds and larger planes used primarily in interstate or foreign commerce. The law removes the requirement for the state Comptroller to report annually on lost tax revenue and job changes related to the exemption. Additionally, it extends the exemption's expiration date from June 30, 2025, to June 30, 2030.
Maddy summaryThis bill authorizes Somerset County Commissioners to create or designate a new entity to manage fire, rescue, and emergency medical services while maintaining the county's volunteer-based system. It requires the commissioners to establish an Emergency Services Advisory Council to provide recommendations on the operations of these services. The legislation takes effect on October 1, 2024, giving the county greater flexibility to organize its emergency response infrastructure.
Maddy summaryThis bill directs Somerset County Commissioners to provide specific annual funding amounts to seven organized volunteer fire companies in the county. It establishes a ten-year schedule of payments that begins in fiscal year 2024 and automatically continues for each subsequent year unless changed by new legislation. The law sets exact dollar figures for each company, ensuring a steady financial stream to support their operations over the next decade.
Maddy summaryThis Maryland bill officially changes the common name of the northern snakehead to "Patuxent Fish" or "Chesapeake Channa" in state laws and department publications. It creates a specific commercial fishing license for catching this fish in tidal waters, allowing the use of bow and arrow or hook and line methods with certain safety restrictions near swimmers and divers. The license costs $15 per year, is valid for one year, and cannot be transferred to another person. The Department of Natural Resources must update all its materials to use the new names by January 1, 2025, while the law itself takes effect on October 1, 2024.