MD SB253

Exempts U.S. Department of Defense research facilities from certain stringent chemical warfare material incineration permit requirements when conducting research, development, or demonstration activities, while establishing a separate permitting process under new Section 7-239.5

Creates specific permit requirements for research facilities incinerating chemical warfare materials, including mandatory emergency preparedness plans with public participation, evacuation/shelter plans for areas at risk from a "maximum credible event," and local government review opportunities

Requires continuous near-real time air emissions monitoring (no more than 10-minute lag) during incineration operations and consideration of soil and water pollution monitoring at research facilities

Mandates annual reporting to the Department on quantities/types of materials incinerated and monitoring results, plus biennial assessments of impacts on local ecosystems, public health, and air quality, with reports submitted to legislative committees

Authorizes the Department to immediately terminate incineration operations if necessary to protect human health or the environment, and to modify or revoke permits based on submitted reports and assessments; effective July 1, 2025