Advocacy

The Maryland General Assembly
will reconvene Wednesday, January 14, 2026 at 12:00 PM.

Statement on Governor Wes Moore’s veto of SB980, Natural Resources— Maryland Heritage Areas Authority— Funding and Grants

May 19, 2025

The Maryland Heritage Areas Coalition is grateful to the Moore-Miller Administration and the Maryland General Assembly for all the support that has been given to the unique statewide Maryland Heritage Areas Program. This program is a proven economic driver for Maryland – heritage areas benefit every county in the state bringing a $7 return for every $1 in state funding.

Therefore, it is with concern that we respond to the veto of the bi-partisan legislation SB980 that passed with universal acclaim in the Maryland General Assembly and was crafted in consultation with members of the Governor’s office.

This legislation was a response to the need for future economic growth within the state.

SB980 was not a mandate for funding; it had no fiscal note. The Maryland Heritage Areas Program is funded through the transfer tax and is a dedicated line in Program Open Space.

SB980 was a vehicle for lifting caps on future funding, which may be years away, when economic times and transfer tax levels would support such a request. And, as the program falls within the Office of the Governor, any future funding levels would be determined by that office.

This legislation was necessary for future economic growth. With the current cap in place, many organizations will be unable to receive future funding that would revitalize regions of our state. We appreciate the careful considerations that the Moore-Miller Administration is making amid historic budget problems and vast regional economic uncertainty. However, this legislation recognized that fact with its mindful approach.

Full Statement (PDF)

Heritage Area Program, Primarily Grantees, to Benefit from Successful Passage of
SB0980/HB1327 by General Assembly

April 9, 2025

On the last day of the Maryland General Assembly, Monday, April 7, SB0980 Natural Resources - Maryland Heritage Areas Authority - Funding and Grants passed the Maryland Senate unanimously and received 137 votes in favor from the House of Delegates. The Maryland Heritage Areas Coalition proudly celebrated the passage of SB0980, allowing more funds to support Maryland’s heritage and economy.

The legislation, sponsored by Sens. Paul Corderman and Michael A. Jackson, increases the opportunity for funding for the Maryland Heritage Areas Program—from $6 million to $12 million annually and raises caps on grants to heritage organizations from $100,000 to $300,000 —allowing for higher levels of program and product development and more impactful capital projects. It also reduces the match requirement for nonprofits, further reducing barriers to equitable awards.

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