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House rejects amendment to block eminent domain for transmission lines; Senate Bill 399 passes after debate over wildlands
Summary
Delegates debated an amendment that would have barred eminent domain for overhead transmission lines through wildland areas; the amendment failed and Senate Bill 399 passed on third reading following arguments about property rights, energy mandates and required mitigation.
A measure regulating overhead transmission lines and wildland impacts (Senate Bill 399) cleared the Maryland House after floor debate and a failed amendment that would have restricted eminent domain for transmission‑line construction.
The amendment’s sponsor moved to prevent use of eminent domain for construction or maintenance of transmission lines in designated wildland areas, saying it would protect family farms and long‑held properties from forced takings. "If we have infrastructure needs, we shouldn't be taking private property," the sponsor said during floor debate.
Opponents of the amendment—including the committee vice chair and other delegates—urged rejection. They argued the state…
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