The proposed legislation, General Assembly Raised Bill No. 5390, aims to amend the distribution of funds from the regional planning incentive account to regional councils of governments. Effective July 1, 2026, the bill stipulates that for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026, and each subsequent fiscal year, a total of seven million dollars will be allocated to these councils. The distribution will be based on a formula developed by the Secretary of the Office of Policy and Management in consultation with the councils, which includes a base payment and a per capita payment based on the most recent federal decennial census. Additionally, each council will receive two hundred thousand dollars specifically for funding positions related to housing planning and development, as well as for a regional stormwater management and flood mitigation coordinator position.

The bill also clarifies that regional councils may receive funding for both a regional stormwater management and flood mitigation coordinator position and a regional municipal solid waste and recycling coordinator position, along with any associated costs. This replaces the previous language that allowed for funding of either position or associated costs, thereby expanding the potential for resource allocation to support regional planning efforts. The changes reflect a commitment to enhancing regional governance and addressing critical issues such as housing and environmental management.