Ehrlich Honors The Bay While O’Malley Celebrates Higher Energy Prices

ANNAPOLIS – In recognition of Earth Day, Bob Ehrlich today reiterated his commitment to restoring the Chesapeake Bay while highlighting the three failures of Governor O’Malley’s energy policy.

“Restoring the Chesapeake Bay is a big task that we can achieve with even bigger ideas,” Ehrlich said. “That is why I authored the Chesapeake Bay Restoration Act in 2004, which currently prevents one million pounds of pollution from entering the Bay each year. Sadly, the O’Malley Administration this year raided that fund in an attempt to close Maryland’s record budget deficit. The only loser in that equation is our Bay and the wildlife and watermen that depend on it.

“Governor O’Malley’s photo op today belies his three failures on energy policy: He broke his pledge to stop the 72 percent increase in energy rates that hurt one million Marylanders. He failed to prevent the layoff of 320 Marylanders when BP Solar closed in Frederick last month. Finally, he enthusiastically supported a $185 million Renewable Energy Tax this year on Maryland consumers, who are already struggling with high unemployment and even higher taxes.

“We need leaders who understand that the environment’s well being and that of Maryland’s families and economy are not mutually exclusive. As governor, I will hand our kids a cleaner Bay than the one we inherited without adding to the hundreds of thousands of Marylanders who are currently in the unemployment line.”

BACKGROUND: In the 2010 legislative session, Governor O’Malley championed Senate Bill 277, a solar energy mandate that lawmakers predict will cost Maryland customers $185 million in the coming years. As part of the Budget Reconciliation and Financing Act, Governor O’Malley also raided the Chesapeake Bay Restoration Fund by $155 million, weakening Maryland’s ability to prevent the flow of dangerous pollutants into the Bay and its tributaries.