NAACP opposes redevelopment bill's wealthy exemptions in Maryland

A bill in Anne Arundel County aimed at speeding up redevelopment of commercial properties and housing is facing backlash. Local groups, including the NAACP, argue that the bill favors affluent, mostly white communities by exempting them from certain requirements. Bill 2-25, introduced by County Executive Steuart Pittman on January 14, seeks to simplify the approval process for redevelopment projects. Despite multiple amendments, concerns remain over two specific changes that some believe will reinforce segregation. The NAACP and Anne Arundel Acting Together, an interfaith group, criticized these amendments. They argue that without removing these exemptions, the bill perpetuates a history of racially and economically divided neighborhoods. Linda Hanifin Bonner from ACT expressed that the council's actions are concerning and deny affordable housing options. Pittman has indicated he supports countywide application of the bill. However, individual council members can introduce amendments specific to their districts. Recently, two amendments, supported by Republican council members, exempted parts of District 5 and District 7 from the bill's requirements. NAACP leaders emphasized that these amendments threaten equity in housing policies. Meanwhile, local officials assure that the bill does not mandate development but encourages better use of underutilized properties. The next hearing for the bill is set for April 7.