reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Maryland Statutes › Natural Resources › Title 8 - Waters › Subtitle 18 - Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays Critical Area Protection Program › Section 8-1813 - Prior Project Approval

(a)    From June 1, 1984 with regard to any subdivision plat approval or approval of a zoning amendment, variance, special exception, conditional use permit, or use of a floating zone, affecting any land or water area located within the initial planning area identified in § 8-1807(a) of this subtitle, for which application is completed after that date, the approving authority of the local jurisdiction in rendering its decision to approve an application shall make specific findings that:
(1)    The proposed development will minimize adverse impacts on water quality that result from pollutants that are discharged from structures or conveyances or that have run off from surrounding lands; and
(2)    The applicant has identified fish, wildlife, and plant habitat which may be adversely affected by the proposed development and has designed the development so as to protect those identified habitats whose loss would substantially diminish the continued ability of populations of affected species to sustain themselves.
(b)    On or after June 1, 2002, with regard to any subdivision plat approval or approval of a zoning amendment, variance, special exception, conditional use permit, or use of a floating zone, affecting any land or water area located within the initial planning area identified in § 8-1807(b) of this subtitle, for which application is completed after that date, the approving authority of the local jurisdiction in rendering its decision to approve an application shall make specific findings that:
(1)    The proposed development will minimize adverse impacts on water quality that result from pollutants that are discharged from structures or conveyances or that have run off from surrounding lands; and
(2)    The applicant has identified fish, wildlife, and plant habitat which may be adversely affected by the proposed development and has designed the development so as to protect those identified habitats whose loss would substantially diminish the continued ability of populations of affected species to sustain themselves.
(c)    With regard to any application for project approval described in subsection (a) or (b) of this section, a local approving authority shall require any additional information from an applicant as is necessary in order to make the findings required by subsection (a) or (b) of this section.
(d)    This section shall remain in effect in a local jurisdiction until such time as an approved program becomes effective.
(e)    This section does not apply to any application in the Chesapeake Bay Critical Area initially filed prior to March 1, 1984 or any application in the Atlantic Coastal Bays Critical Area filed prior to June 1, 2002.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Natural Resources › Title 8 - Waters › Subtitle 18 - Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays Critical Area Protection Program › Section 8-1814 - Commission Approval of Certain Projects; Applicability of Other Laws

(a)    After 760 days have elapsed from the date upon which criteria adopted by the Commission become effective, any State or local agency that proposes development which has not been subject to project approval by the local jurisdiction under an approved program, including buildings, treatment plants, roads, railroads, and airports, in the Chesapeake Bay Critical Area shall, before the State or local agency begins the development, receive the approval of the Commission in accordance with procedures or exceptions set forth in regulations adopted by the Commission using the standards set forth in § 8-1808(b)(1) through (3) of this subtitle. These regulations shall be adopted on or before September 1, 1987, and only after consultation with affected State and local agencies.
(b)    The Secretary shall consult with the Commission in making consistency determinations under the Federal Coastal Zone Management Program.
(c)    This subtitle is not intended to relieve any obligation otherwise imposed by law or regulation to obtain licenses, permits, or approvals from State and local regulatory agencies or to comply with applicable State and local regulatory prohibitions or restrictions.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Natural Resources › Title 8 - Waters › Subtitle 18 - Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays Critical Area Protection Program › Section 8-1815.1 - Cutting or Clearing Trees

(a)    (1)    The provisions of this section are in addition to any other sanction, remedy, or penalty provided by law.
(2)    This section does not apply to any cutting or clearing of trees that is allowed under regulations adopted by the Commission under this subtitle.
(b)    If a person cuts or clears or plans to cut or clear trees within the Chesapeake Bay Critical Area or Atlantic Coastal Bays Critical Area in violation of an approved local critical area program or of regulations adopted by the Commission, the chairman may bring an action, or the local jurisdiction may bring an action or request that the chairman of the Commission refer the matter to the Attorney General to bring an action:
(1)    To require the person to replant trees where the cutting or clearing occurred in accordance with a plan prepared by the State Forester, a registered professional forester, or a registered landscape architect;
(2)    To restrain the planned violation; or
(3)    For damages:
(i)    To be assessed by a circuit court in an amount equal to the estimated cost of replanting trees; and
(ii)    To be paid to the Department by the person found to have violated the provisions of this subsection.
(c)    If the chairman of the Commission has reason to believe that the local jurisdiction is failing to enforce the requirements of subsection (b) of this section, the chairman shall refer the matter to the Attorney General as provided under § 8–1815(b) of this subtitle.
(d)    On the chairman of the Commission’s referral of an alleged violation under subsection (c) of this section to the Attorney General, the Attorney General may invoke the remedies available to the local jurisdiction under subsection (b) of this section in any court of competent jurisdiction in which the local jurisdiction would be authorized to prosecute or sue.
(e)    On the request of a local jurisdiction or the chairman of the Commission, the State Forester, a registered professional forester, or a registered landscape architect may prepare, oversee, and approve the final implementation of a plan to:
(1)    Replant trees in any part of the Chesapeake Bay Critical Area where trees in the Chesapeake Bay Critical Area are cut or cleared in violation of subsection (b) of this section; and
(2)    Replant trees in any part of the Atlantic Coastal Bays Critical Area where trees in the Atlantic Coastal Bays Critical Area are cut or cleared in violation of subsection (b) of this section.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Natural Resources › Title 8 - Waters › Subtitle 18 - Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays Critical Area Protection Program › Section 8-1816 - Commission to Prepare Report

In consultation with State and local agencies involved in planning, acquiring, and managing open space and recreational lands, the Commission, by January 1, 1987, shall prepare a report to the Governor and the General Assembly recommending State policy and goals for:
(1)    The provision of public access along the shoreline of the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries; and
(2)    The reforestation of land within the Critical Area and the preservation of forested land within the Critical Area.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Natural Resources › Title 8 - Waters › Subtitle 18 - Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays Critical Area Protection Program › Section 8-1817 - Commission Report on Chesapeake Bay Critical Area

(a)    By January 1, 1994, the Commission shall adopt criteria that assure the protection of land and water resources in the Critical Area and that shall apply throughout the Critical Area for:
(1)    Production of oil or natural gas on lands or waters leased by the State; and
(2)    Exploration or production of oil or natural gas on any lands in the Critical Area.
(b)    (1)    In addition to other applicable provisions of law, an applicant for any production or exploratory drilling that will occur on, in, under, or through the Critical Area, including wells drilled outside the Critical Area by a method known as slant drilling that will pass through the Critical Area, shall complete and submit with the application an environmental impact study that addresses the potential for any adverse environmental effects on the Critical Area as a result of the drilling.
(2)    (i)    The Department shall forward a copy of the permit application and the environmental impact study referred to in paragraph (1) of this subsection to the Commission for its review and comment.
(ii)    The Department shall consider and comment in writing on the objections and concerns of the Commission before issuing a permit under this subsection.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Natural Resources › Title 8 - Waters › Subtitle 19 - Chesapeake Bay Trust and Programs › Part I - General Provisions › Section 8-1901 - Definitions

(a)    In this part the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)    “Board” means the Board of Trustees of the Chesapeake Bay Trust.
(c)    “Trust” means the Chesapeake Bay Trust.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Natural Resources › Title 8 - Waters › Subtitle 19 - Chesapeake Bay Trust and Programs › Part I - General Provisions › Section 8-1903 - Purpose

The purpose of the Chesapeake Bay Trust is declared to be of general benefit to the citizens and charitable in nature. The Trust shall be a body corporate and shall have perpetual existence, subject to modification or termination by the General Assembly if necessary to effectuate its purpose or when and if its substantial purpose ceases.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Natural Resources › Title 8 - Waters › Subtitle 19 - Chesapeake Bay Trust and Programs › Part I - General Provisions › Section 8-1904 - Board of Trustees -- in General

(a)    The powers and duties of the Chesapeake Bay Trust shall rest in and be exercised by a board of 19 trustees.
(b)    The Board of Trustees shall consist of:
(1)    The President of the Senate, ex officio;
(2)    The Speaker of the House, ex officio;
(3)    The Secretaries of Agriculture, the Environment, and Natural Resources, ex officio, or their designees; and
(4)    14 individuals appointed by the Governor as follows:
(i)    8 shall represent the interests of local government, education, environmental conservation, and the general public; and
(ii)    6 shall represent the business community.
(c)    The Governor shall consider geographical balance in making appointments to the Board of Trustees.
(d)    Except for the ex officio members or their designees:
(1)    The term of a member is 4 years;
(2)    The terms of members are staggered as required by the terms provided for members of the Board on July 1, 1985;
(3)    At the end of a term, a member continues to serve until a successor is appointed and qualifies;
(4)    A member who is appointed after a term is begun serves for the rest of the term and until a successor is appointed and qualifies; and
(5)    A member may serve no more than 2 consecutive terms.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Natural Resources › Title 8 - Waters › Subtitle 19 - Chesapeake Bay Trust and Programs › Part I - General Provisions › Section 8-1905 - Chair; Meetings; Expenses; Staff, Supplies, and Office Space

(a)    The Board shall elect one of their members to serve as chair.
(b)    The Board shall meet at places and dates to be determined by the Board, but not less than 2 times a year.
(c)    Seven trustees shall constitute a quorum, but action may not be taken by a vote of less than seven members.
(d)    A trustee:
(1)    May not receive compensation as a trustee; but
(2)    Is entitled to reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations as provided in the State budget.
(e)    The State agencies represented on the Trust shall provide staff, supplies, and office space, and shall be reimbursed for these expenses from moneys of the Trust.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Natural Resources › Title 8 - Waters › Subtitle 19 - Chesapeake Bay Trust and Programs › Part I - General Provisions › Section 8-1906 - Powers and Duties

The Trust shall have the powers and duties to:
(1)    Solicit and accept any gift, grant, legacy, or endowment of money from the federal government, State government, local government, or any private source in furtherance of the Trust;
(2)    Provide grants to nonprofit organizations, community associations, civic groups, schools, or public agencies for citizen involvement projects;
(3)    Develop projects for sponsorship by corporate and business organizations or private individuals;
(4)    Develop criteria for citizen involvement projects or corporate sponsorship projects;
(5)    Make, execute, and enter into any contract or other legal instrument;
(6)    Receive appropriations as provided in the State budget;
(7)    Lease and maintain an office at a place within the State the Trust designates;
(8)    Adopt bylaws for the regulation of its affairs and the conduct of its business;
(9)    Take any other action necessary to carry out the purposes of the Trust;
(10)    Sue and be sued, but only to enforce contractual or similar agreements with the Trust; and
(11)    Report annually to the Governor and, subject to § 2–1257 of the State Government Article, to the General Assembly, its activities during the preceding year together with any recommendations or requests deemed appropriate to further the purposes of the Trust.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Natural Resources › Title 8 - Waters › Subtitle 19 - Chesapeake Bay Trust and Programs › Part I - General Provisions › Section 8-1907 - Citizen Involvement Projects -- in General

(a)    In developing the criteria for citizen involvement projects or corporate sponsorship projects, the Trust may consider activities that:
(1)    Preserve water quality and habitat;
(2)    Restore aquatic and land resources;
(3)    Publish or produce educational materials on the Chesapeake Bay and other aquatic and land resources of the State;
(4)    Provide educational scholarships or training; or
(5)    Promote conservation programs for the Chesapeake Bay and other aquatic and land resources of the State through the media or other means.
(b)    The Trust may not consider activities which advocate a political candidate or political solution.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Natural Resources › Title 8 - Waters › Subtitle 19 - Chesapeake Bay Trust and Programs › Part I - General Provisions › Section 8-1908 - Citizen Involvement Projects -- Application of Funds

The Trust shall apply at least one–third of any gift, grant, legacy, or endowment received in excess of $5,000 directly to citizen involvement projects in accordance with the provisions of this subtitle.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Natural Resources › Title 8 - Waters › Subtitle 19 - Chesapeake Bay Trust and Programs › Part I - General Provisions › Section 8-1909 - Deposits and Investments; Accounting

(a)    (1)    All money received by the Trust shall be deposited, as directed by the Trust, in any State or national bank, or federally or State insured savings and loan associations located in the State having a total paid–in capital of at least $1,000,000.
(2)    The trust department of any State or national bank or savings and loan association may be designated as a depository to receive any securities acquired or owned by the Trust.
(3)    The restriction with respect to paid–in capital may be waived for any qualifying bank or savings and loan association which agrees to pledge securities of the State or of the United States to protect the funds and securities of the Trust in amounts and under arrangements acceptable to the Trust.
(b)    (1)    Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, any money of the Trust, in its discretion and unless otherwise provided in any agreement or covenant between the Trust and the holders of any of its obligations limiting or restricting classes of investments, may be invested in the following:
(i)    Bonds or other obligations of the United States, the State, the political subdivisions or units of the State, or direct or indirect federal agencies;
(ii)    Corporate bonds with a rating of BAA3/BBB;
(iii)    Mortgage backed and asset backed securities with a rating of AAA;
(iv)    Marketable equity securities;
(v)    Marketable equity–related mutual funds; or
(vi)    Debt–related mutual funds.
(2)    The overall debt security portion of the portfolio of the Trust must have a rating of at least AA.
(c)    The Trust shall make provision for a system of financial accounting, controls, audits, and reports.
(d)    The books, records, and accounts of the Trust are subject to audit by the State.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Natural Resources › Title 8 - Waters › Subtitle 19 - Chesapeake Bay Trust and Programs › Part I - General Provisions › Section 8-1910 - Exemption From Certain Code Provisions

(a)    (1)    Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, in exercising its powers, the Trust:
(i)    Is exempt from the provisions of the State Finance and Procurement Article, the provisions of Division I of the State Personnel and Pensions Article that govern the State Personnel Management System, and the provisions of Division II and Title 37 of the State Personnel and Pensions Article; and
(ii)    May carry out its corporate purposes without obtaining the consent of any department, board, or agency of the State.
(2)    The Trust is subject to the provisions of the State Finance and Procurement Article to the extent of State appropriations or contracts or grants from a unit of State government, if any.
(b)    (1)    Subject to paragraph (2) of this subsection, the trustees and employees of the Trust are exempt from the provisions of the Public Ethics Law.
(2)    (i)    The Board shall adopt provisions to govern the public ethics of the trustees and employees of the Trust relating to conflicts of interest for nonprofit organizations.
(ii)    The Trust shall keep on file and make available for public inspection at the principal office of the Trust a written copy of the conflict of interest provisions adopted under subparagraph (i) of this paragraph.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Natural Resources › Title 8 - Waters › Subtitle 19 - Chesapeake Bay Trust and Programs › Part II - Chesapeake Conservation Corps Program › Section 8-1913 - Definitions

(a)    In this part the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)    “Clean energy project” means a project to improve access to clean, renewable energy sources in a community disproportionately affected by climate impacts.
(c)    “Climate mitigation project” means a project to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases and co–pollutants and mitigate the health impacts of climate impacts in a community disproportionately affected by climate impacts.
(d)    “Community disproportionately affected by climate impacts” means a community identified using the methodology recommended by the Commission on Environmental Justice and Sustainable Communities under § 1–702 of the Environment Article.
(e)    “Corps Board” means the Advisory Board of the Corps Program.
(f)    “Corps Program” means the Chesapeake Conservation Corps Program established under § 8–1914 of this part.
(g)    “Energy conservation project” means a project to promote energy conservation or efficiency, including a project to:
(1)    Improve energy efficiency of households and public structures through energy audits, weatherization, and other on–site energy conservation measures;
(2)    Implement clean energy projects in communities to enhance the use of renewable energy, reduce carbon emissions, and mitigate climate impacts;
(3)    Implement community greening and urban tree canopy projects that create energy savings; and
(4)    Assist schools in becoming “green schools” and reducing energy costs.
(h)    “Environmental project” means a project that results in long–term preservation, protection, and conservation of the environment, in areas including environmental restoration, agricultural and forestry, infrastructure, energy conservation, and educational improvements.
(i)    “Qualified organization” means:
(1)    A nonprofit organization;
(2)    A school;
(3)    A community association;
(4)    A service, youth, or civic group;
(5)    An institution of higher education;
(6)    A county or municipality; or
(7)    A unit of State government.
(j)    “Trust” means the Chesapeake Bay Trust.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Natural Resources › Title 8 - Waters › Subtitle 19 - Chesapeake Bay Trust and Programs › Part II - Chesapeake Conservation Corps Program › Section 8-1914 - Program Established

(a)    There is a Chesapeake Conservation Corps Program administered by the Trust, in consultation with the Corps Board.
(b)    The purpose of the Corps Program is to:
(1)    Promote, preserve, protect, and sustain the environment;
(2)    Provide young adults with opportunities to become better citizens, students, and workers through meaningful service to their communities and the State;
(3)    Mobilize, educate, and train youth and young adults to work with communities and schools to promote energy conservation and mitigate and prevent threats to the environment;
(4)    Mobilize, educate, and train youth and young adults to deploy clean energy technology and mitigate and prevent the environmental and health impacts of climate impacts in communities disproportionately affected by climate impacts;
(5)    Ensure underserved and geographical climate disparities populations are given assistance needed to prepare for and adapt to climate impacts;
(6)    Provide a green career ladder and opportunities for all youth and young adults, especially those most at risk, to be exposed to and trained in the energy efficiency, environmental protection, governmental and regulatory administration, and renewable energy generation sectors;
(7)    Educate and train communities and individuals for the long–term action needed to continue to promote, preserve, protect, and sustain the environment after a Corps project has been completed;
(8)    Act as a coordinator and facilitator of efforts to foster public–private partnerships in developing “green collar” job opportunities and in enhancing and expanding the workforce available for environmental protection and clean energy industries; and
(9)    Channel available public and private resources to the protection, conservation, and preservation of the environment of the State.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Natural Resources › Title 8 - Waters › Subtitle 19 - Chesapeake Bay Trust and Programs › Part II - Chesapeake Conservation Corps Program › Section 8-1915 - Corps Board

(a)    (1)    The purpose of the Corps Board is to advise the Trust in the development and implementation of the Corps Program.
(2)    The Corps Board consists of the following members:
(i)    One member of the Senate of Maryland, appointed by the President of the Senate;
(ii)    One member of the House of Delegates, appointed by the Speaker of the House;
(iii)    One member appointed by the Chancellor of the University System of Maryland with the advice and consent of the Senate, to serve as a liaison between the Corps Board, the Chancellor, and the Board of Regents;
(iv)    One member appointed by the President of Morgan State University, to serve as a liaison between the Corps Board, the President, and the Board of Regents;
(v)    Three members of the Board of Trustees of the Chesapeake Bay Trust, appointed by the Chair of the Board; and
(vi)    Five members appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Senate, including at least one individual from the nonprofit sector with a background in education and student service and one with a background in workforce development.
(3)    If a regulated lobbyist is appointed to serve as a member of the Corps Board, the lobbyist is not subject to:
(i)    § 5–504(d) of the General Provisions Article; or
(ii)    § 5–704(f)(3) of the General Provisions Article as a result of that service.
(b)    A member of the Corps Board shall reside in the State.
(c)    In making appointments to the Corps Board, the Governor shall consider:
(1)    Diversity; and
(2)    All geographic regions of the State.
(d)    A member of the Corps Board:
(1)    May not receive compensation as a member of the Corps Board; but
(2)    Is entitled to reimbursement for expenses under the Standard State Travel Regulations, as provided in the State budget.
(e)    (1)    The term of a member is 4 years.
(2)    The terms of the members are staggered as required by the terms provided for members on July 1, 2010.
(3)    At the end of a term, a member continues to serve until a successor is appointed and qualifies.
(4)    A member who is appointed after a term has begun serves only for the rest of the term and until a successor is appointed and qualifies.
(f)    The appointing authority may remove a member for incompetence, misconduct, or failure to perform the duties of the position.
(g)    (1)    The Corps Board shall determine the times and places of its meetings.
(2)    The Corps Board may act with an affirmative vote of six members.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Natural Resources › Title 8 - Waters › Subtitle 19 - Chesapeake Bay Trust and Programs › Part II - Chesapeake Conservation Corps Program › Section 8-1917 - Grants

(a)    (1)    The Trust, in consultation with the Corps Board, shall make grants to qualified organizations for the creation or expansion of full– and part–time Chesapeake Conservation Corps Programs, that involve citizens of all ages throughout the State, to carry out this part.
(2)    Corps programs shall engage and develop volunteers and stipend volunteers in environmental and energy conservation projects.
(3)    Eligible Corps Program expenses include personnel costs, stipends, supplies, and other materials for projects undertaken by Corps Program volunteers.
(b)    The Trust, in consultation with the Corps Board, shall develop guidelines for evaluating applications from qualified organizations.
(c)    The guidelines developed in accordance with subsection (b) of this section shall:
(1)    Consider the capability of the qualified organization to carry out Corps programs or projects;
(2)    Encourage and consider multiyear, multipartner proposals, local match, cost–sharing agreements, and in–kind match as factors in evaluating Corps Program grant applications; and
(3)    Require grant applications to describe how the qualifying organization intends to:
(i)    Assess the skills of Corps Program volunteers;
(ii)    Provide life skills and work skills training;
(iii)    Provide training and education, in addition to the training provided as a part of the main Corps Program;
(iv)    Develop, where relevant, agreements for academic study with:
1.    Local education agencies;
2.    Community colleges;
3.    4–year colleges;
4.    Area charter high schools and vocational–technical schools; and
5.    Community–based organizations;
(v)    Provide career and educational guidance;
(vi)    Recruit participants without high school diplomas; and
(vii)    Recruit retired and semi–retired seniors and other qualified individuals with relevant experience to train Corps Program volunteers and participate in Corps projects by volunteering their experience and skills.
(d)    A grant agreement regarding funds from the Trust shall:
(1)    Specify the allowed use of the funds provided under the grant, including accountability measures and performance requirements;
(2)    Take into account the need for efficient multiyear funding and administration of the funds; and
(3)    Include provisions for verification that Corps programs and projects are being implemented as planned.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Natural Resources › Title 8 - Waters › Subtitle 19 - Chesapeake Bay Trust and Programs › Part II - Chesapeake Conservation Corps Program › Section 8-1918 - Programs

(a)    (1)    For stipend volunteer programs, the Trust and qualified organizations shall principally recruit individuals for a minimum 6–month commitment who, at the time of enrollment, are at least 18 years of age and not more than 25 years of age.
(2)    For summer volunteer programs, including summer stipend programs, the Trust and qualified organizations shall principally recruit individuals who, at the time of enrollment, are at least 15 years of age and not more than 18 years of age.
(b)    Qualified organizations may not undertake a project if the project would replace regular workers or duplicate or replace an existing service in the same locality.
(c)    A stipend volunteer:
(1)    May not receive a salary as a stipend volunteer; but
(2)    May receive a stipend, as determined by the Trust, based on the needs of the stipend volunteer and the limits of budgetary appropriations.
(d)    (1)    A stipend volunteer may not participate in any partisan political activity while engaged in the performance of duties as a stipend volunteer.
(2)    This part is effective only to the extent that it does not conflict with any federal or State laws or regulations relating to participation in partisan political activities.
(3)    A volunteer or stipend volunteer may not participate in any regulatory or statutory enforcement activities while engaged in the performance of duties as a member of the Corps Program.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Natural Resources › Title 8 - Waters › Subtitle 19 - Chesapeake Bay Trust and Programs › Part II - Chesapeake Conservation Corps Program › Section 8-1919 - Duties of Trust

(a)    The Trust shall provide technical assistance to qualified organizations that request assistance.
(b)    The Trust shall convene Chesapeake Conservation Corps Program participants on a regular basis in order to:
(1)    Promote team building among the participants;
(2)    Develop an understanding of the overall Corps Program purpose;
(3)    Share information about best practices;
(4)    Recognize excellence; and
(5)    Provide training and other learning opportunities.
(c)    In providing training and technical assistance, the Trust may contract with an organization with a proven track record of developing and sustaining Corps programs, working with the Conservation Corps model, and engaging young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Natural Resources › Title 8 - Waters › Subtitle 19 - Chesapeake Bay Trust and Programs › Part II - Chesapeake Conservation Corps Program › Section 8-1921 - Funding

(a)    Except as provided in subsection (c) of this section, the Corps Program shall be funded each fiscal year with:
(1)    The amount specified in § 3–302(d) of this article; and
(2)    Up to $250,000 in additional funds that may be allocated by the Trust through its annual budget process.
(b)    The Trust and the Corps Board shall seek federal funds and grants and donations from private sources to be made to the Trust for the purpose of long–term funding of the Corps Program.
(c)    For fiscal year 2024 and each fiscal year thereafter, the Governor shall include in the annual budget bill an appropriation of $1,500,000 to the Trust for the Corps Program to implement climate mitigation and clean energy projects under § 8–1920 of this subtitle.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Natural Resources › Title 8 - Waters › Subtitle 19 - Chesapeake Bay Trust and Programs › Part II - Chesapeake Conservation Corps Program › Section 8-1922 - Participation by Colleges and Universities

Colleges and universities may:
(1)    Contract with the Trust to carry out Corps Program work;
(2)    Assign to the Trust resources to assist in its Corps Program work, development, and activities; and
(3)    Assign faculty and staff to the Trust for the purpose of carrying out or assisting with Corps programs.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Natural Resources › Title 8 - Waters › Subtitle 19 - Chesapeake Bay Trust and Programs › Part II - Chesapeake Conservation Corps Program › Section 8-1923 - Development of Programs

(a)    In developing its programs and seeking federal and State grants, the Trust and the Corps Board shall:
(1)    Coordinate all efforts with the Maryland Conservation Corps established in Title 5, Subtitle 2 of this article to engage young adults in conservation service projects;
(2)    Coordinate all efforts with the Civic Justice Corps, an adjunct program of the Maryland Conservation Corps, to engage youth in conservation service projects; and
(3)    Seek assistance and advice from relevant public and private sources.
(b)    In developing clean energy infrastructure and educational programs, the Trust and the Corps Board shall seek assistance from and cooperate with the Maryland Clean Energy Center under Title 10, Subtitle 8 of the Economic Development Article.
(c)    In developing its volunteer programs, the Trust and the Corps Board shall seek assistance from and cooperate with:
(1)    The Maryland Service Corps and the Governor’s Office on Service and Volunteerism under Title 9.5, Subtitle 2 of the State Government Article;
(2)    The Department of Economic Competitiveness and Commerce and other appropriate units of State government and private sector entities to develop opportunities for student participation in private sector activities, such as internship and externship programs; and
(3)    The University System of Maryland and other institutions of higher education in the State to develop opportunities for course credit arrangements through which students may earn course credits for participation in Corps programs as an alternative to or in addition to payment of a stipend in a stipend volunteer or other volunteer Corps program.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Natural Resources › Title 8 - Waters › Subtitle 19 - Chesapeake Bay Trust and Programs › Part II - Chesapeake Conservation Corps Program › Section 8-1923.1 - Recruitment of Individuals to Participate in the Programs -- Stipends -- Coordinated Efforts

(a)    This section applies to programs developed to implement climate mitigation and clean energy projects under § 8–1920 of this subtitle.
(b)    (1)    The Trust and qualified organizations shall principally recruit individuals for a minimum 6–month commitment, who, at the time of enrollment, are at least 18 years old and under the age of 26 years.
(2)    Qualified organizations may not undertake a project if the project would replace regular workers or duplicate or replace an existing service in the same locality.
(3)    A Corps member may receive a stipend.
(4)    Stipends for Corp members shall include monetary payments of at least $15 per hour.
(c)    In developing its programs and seeking federal and State grants, the Trust and the Corps Board shall:
(1)    Coordinate efforts with the Maryland Corps Program established under § 24–1102 of the Education Article;
(2)    Coordinate efforts with the Maryland Conservation Corps to engage young adults in conservation service projects;
(3)    Seek assistance and advice from relevant public and private sources; and
(4)    Explore opportunities for initiating a college–level campaign to engage with community colleges, historically black colleges and universities, and other institutions of higher education in the State.
(d)    In developing clean energy infrastructure and educational programs, the Trust and the Corps Board shall seek assistance from and cooperate with the Maryland Clean Energy Center under Title 10, Subtitle 8 of the Economic Development Article.
(e)    In developing its Corps member programs, the Corps Board shall seek assistance from and cooperate with:
(1)    The Maryland Service Corps and the Governor’s Office on Service and Volunteerism under Title 9.5, Subtitle 2 of the State Government Article;
(2)    The Department of Commerce and other appropriate units of State government and private sector entities to develop opportunities for student participation in private–sector activities, such as internship and externship programs; and
(3)    Community colleges, 4–year colleges, and universities in the State to develop opportunities for course credit arrangements through which Corps members may earn course credits for participation in the Corps Program as an alternative to or in addition to payment of a stipend.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Natural Resources › Title 8 - Waters › Subtitle 19 - Chesapeake Bay Trust and Programs › Part II - Chesapeake Conservation Corps Program › Section 8-1924 - Reports

(a)    On or before October 1 of each year, the Trust, in consultation with the Corps Board shall report to the Governor and, in accordance with § 2–1257 of the State Government Article, the General Assembly.
(b)    The report shall include a complete operating and financial statement covering the operations of the Corps Board and a summary of the activities of the Corps Board during the preceding fiscal year.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Natural Resources › Title 8 - Waters › Subtitle 20 - Penalty and Fines; Prosecution › Section 8-2001 - Penalties and Fines

(a)    Any person who violates any provision of this title is guilty of a misdemeanor. Upon conviction in a court of competent jurisdiction, unless another penalty is specifically provided elsewhere in this title, the person is subject to a fine not exceeding $500, with costs imposed in the discretion of the court. Every fine and cost shall be paid in accordance with § 7-503 of the Courts Article.
(b)    Any person found guilty of a second or subsequent violation of any provision of this title in a court of competent jurisdiction, unless another penalty is specifically provided elsewhere in this title, is subject to a fine not exceeding $1,000, or imprisonment not exceeding 1 year, or both with costs imposed in the discretion of the court. For the purpose of this subsection, a second or subsequent violation is a violation which has occurred within 2 years of any prior violation of this title.
(c)    In addition to any administrative penalty provided in this title, violation of any regulation or restriction adopted by any unit within the Department of Natural Resources pursuant to the provisions of this title is a misdemeanor and is punishable as provided in subsections (a) and (b) of this section.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Natural Resources › Title 8 - Waters › Subtitle 20 - Penalty and Fines; Prosecution › Section 8-2002 - Attorney General Responsible for Cases Arising Under Provisions of Title

The Attorney General shall take charge of, prosecute, and defend on behalf of the State every case arising under the provisions of this title, including the recovery of penalties, except for prosecution of violations of the provisions of Subtitle 7 of this title and regulations adopted under Subtitle 7 of this title.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Natural Resources › Title 8 - Waters › Subtitle 20 - Penalty and Fines; Prosecution › Section 8-2003 - Citations for Offenses on Publicly Owned Watershed Property

(a)    Whenever a person is halted by a regular or special police officer for an offense on publicly owned watershed property punishable as a misdemeanor and which is either a violation of law or a violation of watershed regulations, and is not taken before a District Court commissioner as would otherwise be required or is permitted by law, the officer may prepare a written or electronic citation containing:
(1)    A notice to appear in court;
(2)    The name and address of the person charged;
(3)    The offense charged;
(4)    The time and place the person shall appear in court;
(5)    An acknowledgment of receipt of the citation by the person charged made in a manner determined by the Department; and
(6)    Other pertinent information as necessary.
(b)    The time specified in the notice to appear shall be at least five days after the alleged violation unless the person charged with the violation demands an earlier hearing.
(c)    The place specified in the notice to appear shall be before a judge of the appropriate District Court.
(d)    The person charged with the violation may promise to appear in court by acknowledging receipt of at least one copy of the citation prepared by the officer in a manner determined by the Department, in which event the officer shall deliver a copy of the citation to the person. Then, the officer may not take the person into physical custody for the violation.
(e)    Failure to comply with the notice to appear is punishable as contempt or as otherwise provided by law in such cases.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Natural Resources › Title 8 - Waters › Subtitle 21 - Phragmites Management and Control › Section 8-2101 - Legislative Findings

The General Assembly finds that the growth of the tall, reed-like grass Phragmites communis, commonly known as phragmites, may be a public and common nuisance on land and wetlands used for wildlife habitat areas. Therefore, it is the intent of the General Assembly that this subtitle require that statewide studies of phragmites be conducted in order to determine its spread and determine any progress made in current management and control programs.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Natural Resources › Title 8 - Waters › Subtitle 21 - Phragmites Management and Control › Section 8-2102 - Cost Sharing Assistance to Real Property Owner

(a)    A person who owns real property on which phragmites grows may apply to the Secretary for cost sharing assistance in the management and control of the spread of phragmites.
(b)    The Secretary shall establish a cost sharing program to assist landowners, on whose property phragmites grows, in the management and control of the spread of phragmites.
(c)    The Secretary may determine whether the Department should assist a landowner in the management and control of the spread of phragmites based on:
(1)    The magnitude of the area to be managed and controlled; and
(2)    The possibility of the spread of phragmites into adjoining land and wetland areas.
(d)    (1)    (i)    Subject to the requirements of this subsection, the Department shall pay a landowner 50% of the costs associated with the eradication and control of the spread of phragmites.
(ii)    The landowner shall be responsible for any remaining costs.
(iii)    Moneys paid to a landowner under this section may be paid from the Tidal Wetlands Compensation Fund, the Wildlife Management and Protection Fund, or federal funds. The Department shall coordinate cost sharing assistance paid from the funds under this section with the Department of the Environment.
(iv)    The Department shall require verification of a landowner’s expenses before the landowner may receive money from the cost sharing program.
(2)    The Department may not pay more than $12,000 each year to a single landowner, or to a person in the immediate family of the landowner, or to an entity in which the landowner has a substantial ownership interest, under the cost sharing program established in this section.
(3)    The Department may not expend more than $60 per acre per year for any cost sharing project under this section.
(4)    In lieu of cash payments to landowners, the Department may substitute in-kind services of equal value.
(5)    The Department shall establish priorities to target cost sharing assistance to wetlands restoration and enhancement where:
(i)    Phragmites threatens rare or endangered wildlife or plants;
(ii)    The highest diversity and abundance of native plants, wildlife, or fish exist; and
(iii)    Phragmites can be effectively controlled.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Natural Resources › Title 8 - Waters › Subtitle 21 - Phragmites Management and Control › Section 8-2103 - Cost Sharing Program; Study and Analysis of Progress

(a)    (1)    The Department shall study and analyze the effectiveness of the cost sharing program in the Department that assists landowners in paying for the cost of the management and control of the spread of phragmites.
(2)    The analysis required in paragraph (1) of this subsection shall include information on how assistance under the cost sharing program is allocated.
(b)    The Department shall ascertain on a per–acre basis the statewide extent of infestation of phragmites, when necessary data is available, and shall study and analyze the progress made in the management and control of the spread of phragmites on:
(1)    Lands that the Department owns or controls; and
(2)    Any real property on which the Department assists landowners with the control of phragmites.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Natural Resources › Title 10 - Wildlife › Subtitle 1 - In General › Section 10-102 - Findings Regarding Hunting -- Right of Residents to Hunt Subject to Certain Regulations and Restrictions

(a)    The General Assembly finds that:
(1)    Hunting is a valued part of the State’s cultural and social heritage that provides unique recreational benefits to residents of the State; and
(2)    Hunting plays an important part in the State’s economy by contributing to tax revenues and employment and, through the receipt of federal funds, supports the conservation, preservation, and management of the State’s wildlife, natural areas, and related resources.
(b)    It is the intent of the General Assembly that residents of the State have a right to hunt subject to regulations and restrictions under laws that the General Assembly enacts.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Natural Resources › Title 10 - Wildlife › Subtitle 2 - Organization and Authority of Unit Pertaining to Wildlife -- in General › Section 10-202 - Responsibilities of Secretary Generally

(a)    The Secretary is responsible for conservation and management of wildlife and wildlife resources of the State.
(b)    The Secretary shall provide for a statewide system of assistance to local political subdivisions regarding the disposition of wild animals. Assistance may include field services, training, or payment to local political subdivisions for wildlife control in accordance with procedures and plans agreed to between the Department and the local political subdivisions.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Natural Resources › Title 10 - Wildlife › Subtitle 2 - Organization and Authority of Unit Pertaining to Wildlife -- in General › Section 10-202.1 - Nutria Management Plan

(a)    The Secretary shall develop, adopt, and implement a comprehensive nutria management plan to eradicate the species Myocastor coypu (nutria) from the State.
(b)    In addition to any funding provided under § 10-308.1 of this title, the Department shall seek funding from federal, private, and other sources to implement fully the nutria management plan until nutria are eradicated from the State.
(c)    (1)    In accordance with § 2-1257 of the State Government Article, the Secretary shall report annually to the General Assembly beginning July 1, 1995 and by July 1 each year thereafter until the nutria have been eradicated from the State.
(2)    The report shall include data on the implementation of the nutria management plan, including:
(i)    Expenditures and future funding needs;
(ii)    Nutria removed from the population;
(iii)    Results from specific efforts to remove nutria; and
(iv)    An assessment of the success of the plan.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Natural Resources › Title 10 - Wildlife › Subtitle 2 - Organization and Authority of Unit Pertaining to Wildlife -- in General › Section 10-203 - Transfer of Jurisdiction of Department of Game and Inland Fish and Fish and Wildlife Administration to Department

Every right, power, duty, obligation, and function previously conferred upon or exercised by the Department of Game and Inland Fish or the Fish and Wildlife Administration is transferred to and may be exercised by the Department. Every reference to the Department of Game and Inland Fish or the Fish and Wildlife Administration which appears in the Code, in any other State law, or in any ordinance, resolution, regulation, legal action, directive, or document means the Department.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Natural Resources › Title 10 - Wildlife › Subtitle 2 - Organization and Authority of Unit Pertaining to Wildlife -- in General › Section 10-204 - Department Advisory Commissions

(a)    There is a Wildlife Advisory Commission in the Department.
(b)    Notwithstanding any other provision of this article, a member of the Fish and Wildlife Commission as of June 30, 1972 may serve the unexpired remainder of the member’s term as a member of an advisory commission created by law.