PG/MC 102-26 (House Bill 1230)

This bill ensures that Maryland businesses and Maryland workers benefit from the billions of dollars invested by WSSC Water in its operations and infrastructure. 

WSSC Water provides essential water and wastewater services to nearly 2 million residents in Prince George’s and Montgomery Counties. 

• $114.9 billion in regional economic output 
• Spent $1.3 billion with Maryland businesses over the past five years 
  • Nearly $635 million of that was spent within our service district 
• Will invest $4.8 billion over the next six years through our Capital Improvements Program, including $715.5 million in FY26 

What the Bill Does 

PG/MC 102-26 (HB 1230) makes targeted, administrative updates to modernize WSSC Water’s procurement statute and strengthen small and local business participation. 

First, it modernizes our business participation framework moving from a one-size-fits-all approach, by creating distinct pathways for 

1. Local and small top
2. Local (no longer small), and 
3. Maryland-based businesses to help keep dollars in our region, while prioritizing local (Prince George’s and Montgomery Counties) businesses. 

Second, it cuts red tape by streamlining vendor onboarding, helping Maryland businesses move through the certification process more efficiently. 

Third, it formally recognizes veteran-owned and disabled veteran-owned businesses, honoring their service while strengthening their opportunity to compete. 

Fourth, it clarifies WSSC Water’s authority to set standards for local hiring, apprenticeships, and skills training on our contracts, turning infrastructure projects into measurable workforce opportunities. 

Fifth, it ensures economic accountability by establishing the authority to track the real-world impact of our spending through data reporting on workforce residency and local economic activity.  

Sixth, it requires WSSC Water to formally name the office responsible for these modernized business and economic development contracting responsibilities.

Simply put: This bill ensures that when we invest billions of dollars in water infrastructure, Maryland businesses and Maryland workers are positioned to benefit.