TESTIMONY TO THE HOUSE COMMITTEE ON ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS

HB 1312 Program Open Space Sites - Public Access

POSITION: Support

BY:  Susan Cochran, President

DATE: March 5, 2014

The League of Women Voters develops positions based on study, discussion and consensus of its members. Preservation of open space and provision of parks and recreation on the local level is supported by the League of Women Voters.

In this area rich in bodies of water that could be used for healthful and enjoyable outdoor recreation by local citizens, we support planning by state and local governments and use of Program Open Space funds and the Bay Access Areas funds to provide and/or enhance public access to space preserved by POS programs.

This proper and common sense provision in HB 1312 will improve the lives of families in Maryland and incidentally increase love and understanding of our wonderful Maryland resources in water--the Bay and rivers we seek to restore and maintain.

We urge a favorable report on HB 1312.