Creating Smart Energy Solutions
Maryland is at an energy crossroads. Powerful energy companies want to charge higher electric rates and build more power plants and lines. Instead, we should focus on energy efficiency—the fastest and cheapest way to meet our energy needs, lower bills and create good jobs for Maryland.
Maryland PIRG supports legislation that:
- Reduces Maryland’s per-capita energy use 15 percent by 2015.
- Requires utilities to submit binding long-term plans that explain how they will provide reliable electricity service at affordable prices.
- Challenges the construction of a new nuclear reactor at Calvert Cliffs.
Safe & Healthy Communities
Our children have a right to grow up in a safe environment. Unfortunately, unseen toxic chemicals in products and the environment put our children at risk every day. Maryland PIRG supports legislation that:
- Phases out the use of toxic chemicals in children’s products.
- Establish a recycling program for car switches that contain toxic mercury.
Budget & Tax
A fair tax system relies on everyone paying their fair share. Unfortunately, multi-state corporations are able to use fancy accounting tricks to minimize their in-state tax burden.
Maryland PIRG supports legislation that establishes ‘combined reporting’ to eliminate many corporate tax-avoidance schemes.
Protecting Consumers
Maryland ranks 11th highest in the country for identity theft and many of Maryland’s most vulnerable consumers fall victim to predatory lenders.
Maryland PIRG supports legislation that:
- Prevents the use of social security numbers on any ID cards.
- Allows law enforcement to seize assets obtained through identity theft.
- Prevents predatory for-profit debt management companies from operating in Maryland.
Encouraging Transit, Not Traffic
Investment in public transit reduces the number of cars on the road and strengthens the economy. Maryland currently has the 2nd longest commute times in the country. As our state’s population continues to grow, we need to develop a better mass transit infrastructure to save time, money and our natural resources.
Maryland PIRG supports legislation that:
- Fully funds transit expansion projects including the Purple Line in Montgomery & Prince George’s County, Red Line in Baltimore and expanded MARC train service.
Democracy
The influence of wealthy special interests in the funding of campaigns has eroded public trust in our political system and discouraged political participation.
Maryland PIRG supports legislation that:
- Allows candidates who agree to spending limits and refuse special interest and other private contributions to receive public financing for their campaigns.
- Fully funds the transition to an election system with a voter-prepared paper ballot that allows for an independent recount.