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On December 13, 2025, the state of Maryland announced new legislation aimed at streamlining the permitting process for construction projects. The legislation, known as the Construction Permitting Efficiency Act, is designed to reduce red tape and make it easier for developers to obtain the necessary permits for their projects.Under the new law, construction projects that meet certain criteria will be eligible for expedited permitting review. These criteria include projects that are environmentally friendly, provide affordable housing, or create jobs in economically disadvantaged areas. By fast-tracking the permitting process for these projects, the state hopes to encourage more development in these key areas.In addition to expediting the permitting process, the Construction Permitting Efficiency Act also includes provisions aimed at improving transparency and accountability in the permitting process. For example, the legislation requires local government agencies to provide detailed information about the status of permit applications, including any delays or issues that may be holding up the process.The new law has been welcomed by industry groups, who have long argued that Maryland's current permitting process is overly complex and time-consuming. Developers have reported waiting months, and even years, to obtain the necessary permits for their projects, leading to delays and increased costs."We are thrilled to see the state taking steps to streamline the permitting process," said Sarah Johnson, president of the Maryland Construction Association. "This new legislation will make it easier for developers to get their projects off the ground, ultimately benefiting the economy and creating much-needed jobs."The Construction Permitting Efficiency Act is set to go into effect on January 1, 2026. State officials are hopeful that the new law will not only make it easier for developers to navigate the permitting process but also help to spur economic growth and development throughout the state.