Maryland Governor Larry Hogan has made the pursuit of commonsense solutions a hallmark of his first term. As an ardent supporter of market-based, clean energy legislation, Governor Hogan has distinguished himself as a leader who understands the important role these reforms play in strengthening the local economy, creating local jobs, and preserving the Bay State’s pristine environment.
According to the Maryland Office of Tourism Development’s latest Economic Impact Report, Maryland’s tourism industry sales rose 3.3% to $16.9 billion and visitor spending generated $28.7 billion in total business sales across all state industries in 2015. In fact, visitor spending has grown for six straight years, expanding by nearly a third since 2009. From the western mountains to the pristine waters of the Chesapeake and its tributaries, the quality and preservation of natural resources remains a critical component of Maryland’s tourism and economy.
That’s why Governor Hogan recently announced his 2017 Environmental Package, an agenda that outlines nearly $65 million in investments to grow Maryland’s economy and renewable energy innovation, while also protecting its natural resources and environment. Additionally, Hogan’s agenda includes a targeted investment in Maryland’s EARN Program to train 1,500 workers for solar, wind, and hydroelectric jobs.
“The proposals in our package are innovative, forward-thinking solutions to ensure that Maryland continues to lead the way to safeguard our environment,” said Governor Hogan upon the announcement. “I look forward to working with legislators to get these common sense measures passed. We owe it to the next generation to continue to find cost-effective ways to protect Maryland’s environment and stimulate economic growth.”
This isn’t the first time that Hogan has taken decisive action to implement clean energy solutions. Shortly after taking office in 2015, Hogan enhanced Phosphorous Management Tool (PMT) regulations to boost rural economies and improve the Chesapeake Bay’s water quality. He also enacted legislation during his first year in office to expand and codify the Maryland Commission on Climate Change. Recently, the Hogan administration built upon their work to address climate change by taking proactive steps to ensure Maryland’s position as a national leader in combating greenhouse gas emissions.
As a matter of fact, Hogan’s leadership to advance clean energy legislation is already producing tangible results for Maryland. According to a report released by the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science in May, the Chesapeake Bay’s levels of nitrogen, phosphorus, and sediment have decreased dramatically compared to recent years.
Governor Larry Hogan deserves applause for enacting cost-effective, clean energy policy that is critical for boosting the quality of Maryland’s economy and environment. CRES commends Hogan’s tireless leadership to promote commonsense, clean energy solutions, and we look forward to working with Hogan to continue this progress in the 2017 legislative session.