LA PLATA, Md. — The Southern Maryland National Heritage Area (SMNHA) expressed disappointment this week following Gov. Wes Moore’s veto of Senate Bill 980, a widely supported measure that would have expanded funding flexibility for the Maryland Heritage Areas Program.
The vetoed bill, formally titled “Maryland Heritage Areas Authority – Funding and Grants,” would have raised per-project grant caps, reduced matching fund requirements for nonprofits and established a more flexible framework for distributing state heritage funds, without mandating new appropriations in the current budget cycle.
The bill passed the General Assembly with overwhelming support: 44-0 in the Senate and 137-1 in the House. Despite this backing, Moore’s veto letter cited concerns about the bill’s impact on limited Program Open Space. “Expanding the MHAA allocation at this time would further strain limited resources and undermine the state’s ability to meet broad conservation and recreation goals,” Moore wrote.
In a public Facebook post on May 20, SMNHA Executive Director Lucille Walker responded:
“We’re concerned about the veto of the bipartisan bill SB980: Maryland Heritage Areas Authority – Funding and Grants. This legislation would have created future growth opportunities for heritage areas without requiring any immediate funding. Maryland’s Heritage Areas are an economic driver, generating $7 for every $1 invested and supporting 40,000 jobs across the state. We remain committed to working with the administration to address this need in the next general session. When we invest in Maryland’s heritage, we invest in Maryland’s future,” Walker stated.
What SB980 Proposed
The bill aimed to raise the cap on available grants, reduce local matching requirements for nonprofit heritage projects and adjust administrative limits under the Program Open Space fund. Supporters argued the changes would help heritage areas grow without requiring new state appropriations.
Moore’s veto letter, dated May 16, cited concerns over fiscal feasibility and administrative capacity, stating that the bill’s provisions would redirect resources from other critical state priorities.
The Southern Maryland National Heritage Area includes dozens of historic and cultural landmarks across Charles, Calvert and St. Mary’s counties. Congress authorized the creation of SMNHA in 2022, recognizing the region’s exceptional place in the nation’s history. The designation, including southern Prince George’s County, brings together federal, state and private resources to promote heritage tourism, conserve natural landscapes, preserve cultural traditions and enhance the local economy.
Next Steps
Because SB980 passed both chambers with near-unanimous support, legislative leaders could attempt an override when the General Assembly reconvenes in January.
For a complete map of SMNHA heritage sites, visit DestinationSouthernMaryland.com/map.
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Is one of those heritage sights your confederate cemeteries? Can we just give southern MD to VA? Or at least just send the residents across the river?