"The 2013 offshore wind bill represents a good beginning to developing Maryland's most abundant clean energy resource," said Mike Tidwell, Director of the Chesapeake Climate Action Network. "I congratulate Governor O'Malley for his sustained leadership on an issue -- wind power -- that will truly transform our children's lives. Supporters from across the state will work with leaders in Annapolis to ensure a strong policy moves forward to bring meaningful economic and environmental benefits to Marylanders."

The legislation is co-sponsored by a majority of the state Senate, including Senate President Mike Miller, and a majority of the key Senate Finance Committee. Last year, the House of Delegates passed a similar bill by a resounding 88-47 vote and advocates look forward to action from the full General Assembly in 2013.

The introduction of the bill follows the release of a new poll that shows support for investing in offshore wind power continues to grow among Maryland voters. Support grew 8 points from a similar poll conducted last year and now stands at 72 percent for investing in the resource.

Today's bill introduction comes a day after President Barack Obama committed to addressing climate change in his inaugural address.

"Maryland must continue to lead in a transition to the clean energy resources that will 'power new jobs and new industries' as noted by the President," added Tidwell. "The offshore wind industry will become a major component of our state economy in the near future and for years to come."

View the poll showing Maryland voters' increasing support for offshore wind energy investment (pdf).

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The Chesapeake Climate Action Network is the first grassroots, nonprofit organization dedicated exclusively to fighting global warming in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. Our mission is to build and mobilize a powerful grassroots movement to call for state, national and international policies that will put us on a path to climate stability. Learn more at www.chesapeakeclimate.org.