“Everyone of our constituents is feeling the impact of higher electricity prices.”

- Senator Steve Hershey, quoted in WMAR- 2 News

Annapolis Lawmakers Confront Rising Energy Costs for Maryland Families

Originally published by WMAR-2 News
By Jeff Morgan | March 5, 2026

Annapolis, Md.:

Maryland lawmakers are increasingly hearing the same concern from residents across the state: energy bills are getting too expensive.

As reported by Jeff Morgan at WMAR-2 News, legislators in Annapolis are considering a number of proposals aimed at lowering electricity costs and providing relief to households facing higher monthly utility bills.

Read the original reporting here: Annapolis considering dozens of proposals to cut down on energy bill costs in Maryland

Energy Bills Top the List of Constituent Concerns

Senate Minority Leader Steve Hershey says rising electricity prices are one of the most common concerns raised by Maryland residents.

“Everyone of our constituents is feeling the impact of higher electricity prices,” Hershey said.

Families and small businesses across the state have been feeling the pressure of increasing utility costs, and lawmakers in Annapolis are actively discussing potential ways to ease that burden.

Proposal to Pause the EmPower Fund Charge

One proposal under consideration comes from Senator Hershey, who has introduced legislation to pause the EmPower Fund charge that appears on many Maryland utility bills.

The EmPower Fund helps support energy efficiency upgrades and assistance programs, but Hershey says temporarily pausing the charge could provide immediate relief for households.

“This bill in itself, just by pausing it would save $17 a month,” Hershey said.

With energy costs continuing to rise, lawmakers are reviewing a number of proposals like this one as they work toward solutions that help reduce costs for Maryland residents.

Read the full article in WMAR-2 News: Annapolis considering dozens of proposals to cut down on energy bill costs in Maryland