Maryland House Unanimously Passes Groundbreaking Legislation as Response to Water Crisis Distressing Baltimore and Cities Across the Nation

HB 1409, the Water Taxpayer Protection Act, Soars Past Final Hurdle in Maryland House, Legislation Now Moves to State Senate.

WASHINGTON - Statement of Rianna Eckel, Maryland Organizer, Food & Water Watch:

“Food & Water Watch applauds the incredible leadership of Delegate Mary Washington and the Baltimore City Delegation in their game-changing work to pass the Water Taxpayer Protection Act in the House of Delegates. This critical piece of legislation will ensure that water bills cannot trigger tax sales in Baltimore City, protecting homeowners, renters and congregations across the City from losing their homes and churches over unaffordable or incorrect water bills. Skyrocketing water rates and widespread billing errors have made it impossible for a number of families to keep up with their water bills.

Now, we call on the Senate to follow suit and make it a high priority to pass this critical water justice legislation. While cities across the country struggle to respond to the growing water affordability crisis, this piece of legislation provides an important model protecting local communities and residents from losing homes over unaffordable water bills and stopping one of the inhumane water collections methods.”

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