Adam Aton

A proposal that would force investor-owned utilities to submit wildfire plans is under attack for what critics say is its focus on shielding companies from

Legislation sponsored by a former Duke Energy executive would eliminate a 2030 emissions goal.

The proposal has attracted support on both sides of the aisle, even as the insurance industry has fought aggressively against it.

The reluctance from key Democrats comes as state lawmakers seek to spend more on climate-related projects.

The measure is part of a multistate effort to add constitutional protections for the environment.

Democrat Josh Shapiro urges "big and dynamic steps" — fossil fuel subsidies to stimulate development and cap and trade to cut emissions.

State environmental justice standards remain out of the president's reach, complicating his rush to expand fossil fuels.

Gov. Wes Moore has set an aggressive clean energy goal. But he faces a budget crunch and a new White House hostile to climate action.

"We don’t want to be pressed for a timeline that ends up hurting the ratepayer," a key committee chair said.

The bill would increase flood insurance coverage, set up a state resiliency office and offer grants for hardening homes against severe storms.