HB 680

This bill, known as the Radiation and Emergency Preparedness and Protection Act, establishes a comprehensive framework for Maryland to respond to nuclear power plant emergencies by creating the Radiation Emergency Response Program within the Department of the Environment. The legislation designates the Department of the Environment as the lead state agency and off-site response organization for all nuclear incidents, requiring it to develop emergency radiation response plans, procure specialized equipment, and participate in federal programs. To fund these activities, the bill requires nuclear power plant owners to pay fees to the Department, which will be deposited into a newly created Radiation Emergency Response Fund, with a portion transferred to the Maryland Department of Emergency Management for radiological emergency preparedness. The bill applies to nuclear facilities in Maryland or those whose emergency planning zones extend into the state, including facilities storing spent nuclear fuel that have not been fully decommissioned.