In a decisive move toward environmental well-being, the Baltimore City Council voted on Monday night to phase out the use of gas-powered leaf blowers, a measure echoing the concerns of communities and environmental groups. Beginning December 15, city agencies and their contractors will shift to electric alternatives, as reported by WMAR-2 News. Ryan Dorsey, the councilman behind the bill, voiced his satisfaction, "Thank you to everybody who supported and advocated for this," said councilman Dorsey, "It’s a good day for the environment, health, and peace of mind."
The ordinance provides a two-year transition period for landscape companies and residents, allowing the use of their gas-powered leaf blowers between October 15 and December 15 for 2025 and 2026 before the year-round ban takes full effect. Addressing the financial implications of the shift, the Department of Public Works cited a cost of approximately $41,000 to replace 18 commercial-grade blowers used around city reservoirs, which necessitate more durable equipment. On a lighter note, the department's solid waste division estimated a $9,000 expense to replace 24 units designed for less intensive work, as detailed by The Baltimore Sun.
The new legislation also carries penalties for infringements. The initial draft proposed fines up to $1,000, yet the enacted law sets citations at $250. This move aligns with efforts such as Annapolis' ban slated for January 1, 2025, and broader initiatives like Washington, D.C.'s existing prohibition implemented in 2022 and Montgomery County's stoppage of sales in 2024, leading to a usage ban the following July.
Anyone with further information is encouraged to contact Dillon Mullan via email at [email protected] or on Twitter at @DillonMullan, as instructed by The Baltimore Sun.
