Favorable
Committee: Economic Matters
HB 0155
The Maryland Catholic Conference (MCC) offers this testimony in support of House Bill 155. The Catholic Conference is the public policy representative of the three (arch)dioceses serving Maryland, which together encompass over one million Marylanders. Statewide, their parishes, schools, hospitals, and numerous charities combine to form our state’s second largest social service provider network, behind only our state government.
House Bill 155 would establish the Carbon Capture Opportunity Program, which would assist nonprofit and for-profit organizations engaged in carbon capture projects or research. Addressing environmental challenges is not just a scientific or political endeavor but a moral imperative rooted in our responsibility to care for God’s creation.
The Catholic Church teaches the importance of stewardship and protection of the environment. Pope Francis, in his encyclical “Laudato Si,” emphasizes the urgent need for global action to address climate change and calls for responsible care of the planet. Establishing programs, such as the one in this bill, promote sustainable practices and contribute to the reduction of carbon emissions.
The Carbon Capture Opportunity Program holds great promise in fostering environmental stewardship withing Maryland. By supporting nonprofit and for-profit businesses engaged in carbon capture projects or research, the program takes a proactive approach to mitigating the impact of climate change. It not only addresses the immediate environmental concerns but also encourages innovation and collaboration in finding long-term solutions.
The MCC appreciates your consideration and, for these reasons, respectfully requests a favorable report on House Bill 155.