RENEW Act Victory!

Congratulations! On December 16, the Maryland General Assembly overrode the Governor’s veto and passed the RENEW Act!

The RENEW Act is an important step towards protecting our communities from the harmful effects of climate change, from flooding to heat waves. It will commission a study calculating the financial costs of the damage polluting companies have caused in Maryland by contributing to climate change. The study will be completed by the end of 2026.

This law will pave the way for more legislation that would fine the highest-polluting companies in Maryland and use the money raised towards climate adaptation and electrification projects in communities.

We supported the RENEW Act in our 2025 statewide campaign as the Maryland Just Power Alliance. During our Advocacy Days in Annapolis, our members shared personal stories with legislators about the need for the RENEW Act, especially for home electrification to improve indoor air quality. 

The bill passed the Maryland House and Senate with large majorities in April but was vetoed by the Governor.

Just this past week, Maryland Just Power Alliance members renewed their support by sending 200 emails to their State Senators and Delegates asking them to override the Governor’s veto.

On December 12, Governor Moore reversed his previous position and announced his support of the RENEW Act and commitment to funding the study. The legislature then overrode the veto, passing the RENEW Act into law.

Congratulations on helping pass this important climate legislation, a step in the right direction for our communities’ future!