MD SB955

Prohibits the use of eminent domain (condemnation) to acquire property encumbered by a conservation easement for constructing overhead transmission lines carrying voltage over 69,000 volts

Allows owners of residential or agricultural property within 500 feet of a condemned property to sue for damages if their property value is diminished by transmission line construction, with potential recovery of attorney's fees

Requires condemning authorities to pay the defendant's reasonable counsel fees and court costs if the final assessed property value exceeds the authority's initial appraisal in transmission line condemnation cases

Applies the same counsel fee and cost requirements when property owners win on appeal in transmission line condemnation proceedings

Takes effect October 1, 2025