Maryland senator seeks 'common sense' changes to state's utility relief proposal

Republican State Sen. Mary Beth Carozza wants to rebalance green energy mandates in the Utility Relief Act.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 9:58pm

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A vibrant, abstract painting of overlapping, geometric shapes in shades of blue, green, and amber, conveying the dynamic tensions in Maryland's energy policy.As Maryland debates its energy future, the state's utility relief proposal sparks discussions on balancing environmental goals and affordability.Baltimore Today

Gov. Wes Moore's proposal to help curb skyrocketing energy bills in Maryland, known as the Utility Relief Act, is now in the state Senate. The bill aims to save ratepayers $150 on their annual energy costs through a rebate and by lowering the EmPOWER Maryland surcharge. Republican State Sen. Mary Beth Carozza says she's open to the bill but wants to see 'common sense' proposals included, such as rebalancing green energy mandates and considering natural gas as part of the state's energy generation mix.

Why it matters

As Maryland residents face rising energy costs, the Utility Relief Act is a key proposal to provide ratepayer relief. However, some lawmakers like Sen. Carozza believe the bill needs adjustments to better balance environmental goals with affordability concerns.

The details

The Utility Relief Act would direct state funds toward clean energy generation in addition to providing a $150 annual rebate and lowering the EmPOWER Maryland surcharge. Sen. Carozza, who represents parts of the Eastern Shore, says she believes natural gas needs to be part of the conversation around the state's energy generation mix in order to reduce costs.

  • The bill passed the Maryland House earlier this month.

The players

Gov. Wes Moore

The governor of Maryland who proposed the Utility Relief Act.

State Sen. Mary Beth Carozza

A Republican state senator from Maryland who wants to see 'common sense' changes to the Utility Relief Act, such as rebalancing green energy mandates.

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What they’re saying

“We've talked about basically rebalancing some of the green energy mandates, that the fact that if we make some adjustments, we can still stay on track with meeting some of these environmental goals, but on a less aggressive timeframe.”

— State Sen. Mary Beth Carozza

“I believe that when you look at this, and if you're serious about reducing energy costs and having energy generation in the state of Maryland, that you have to be looking at natural gas as well.”

— State Sen. Mary Beth Carozza

What’s next

The Utility Relief Act will now be considered by the Maryland Senate after passing the House earlier this month.

The takeaway

The debate over the Utility Relief Act highlights the challenge of balancing environmental goals with affordability concerns as Maryland residents face rising energy costs. Some lawmakers like Sen. Carozza believe the bill needs adjustments to better address both priorities.