Energy Relief That Puts Money Back In Your Pocket
On March 17, the House of Delegates passed energy legislation with strong bipartisan support, reflecting a shared commitment to lowering energy costs and supporting Maryland families.
HB132 – Utility RELIEF (Reducing Energy Load Inflation for Everyday Families) Act is intended to provide both immediate relief and longer-term cost control for Maryland ratepayers. A significant portion of that relief comes from reducing the surcharge that funds the EmPOWER Maryland program, which supports energy-efficiency upgrades, including appliance rebates and conservation efforts.
While this approach may lower bills in the short term, it raises important concerns. EmPOWER has been a proven tool for reducing energy demand and keeping costs down over time. Scaling it back risks undermining both long-term affordability and our environmental goals.
The Utility RELIEF Act does take meaningful steps to deliver immediate savings and improve transparency and accountability in our energy system, steps that are important as many Maryland families face rising expenses. But these short-term gains must be balanced with sustained investment in programs that deliver lasting results.
As the bill moves through the Senate, where debate is intensifying over immediate relief versus long-term energy investments, I remain concerned about the provision reducing EmPOWER funding and will continue to monitor its progress.
Recent news about the energy debate in Maryland:
- Sweeping energy legislation heads for House floor
- Broad energy bill passes Maryland House with bipartisan support
- Energy legislation would save Marylanders at least $150 annually on bills, lawmakers say
- Senators try to amend bill aimed at lowering energy costs amid emotional debate
- Advocates, Small Businesses, and Lawmakers Rally to Protect Consumers, Restore EmPOWER Maryland Funding
When I am your Delegate, I will remain committed to advocating for solutions that keep energy affordable, reliable, sustainable and in keeping with our aggressive environment goals for our state.
As always, if you have thoughts or questions, please reach out to me at tazeen@tazeenformaryland.com. Thank you for staying informed and engaged.
On April 11 we are honored to welcome Virginia’s Lieutenant Governor Ghazala F. Hashmi and former U.S. Representative Carolyn Maloney to our campaign fundraiser.
Join us for an inspiring evening as we build momentum for our campaign for State Delegate in Maryland’s District 16.
Space is limited, so be sure to register early to reserve your spot. Scroll down and click on the event flyer below.
We always have opportunities for us to talk in-person and for you to meet my team. We also continue to need volunteers to help on a board range of things. If you are interested you can respond to this email or check out our website. We can’t do this without you!
Finally, please consider making a financial contribution HERE.
With heart and purpose,
Tazeen Ahmad
Candidate for Delegate
Leading with Heart, Delivering with Purpose