Drivers in Maryland will pay a little more at the pump starting Monday.
The gas tax will increase by nearly four cents on July 1, bringing the state gas tax to 27.3 cents per gallon. That amount could nearly double over the next few years, reaching 44.6 cents per gallon by July 2017.
The law also includes a mechanism to automatically raise the tax in the future based on inflation by linking it to changes in the Consumer Price Index.
And while you're paying more at the pump, you'll also be spending a few more dollars at the Bay Bridge. Starting Monday, it will cost cars $6 to cross the span. E-ZPass users will pay $5.40 -- unless they have a commuter plan.
The toll at the Harry W. Nice Bridge (US 301) will also cost $6.
Another law that goes into effect Monday aims to keep residents safe from house fires. Beginning Monday, the installation of "long-life" smoke alarms will be required in all residential construction projects. The alarms are outfitted with lithium batteries that last 10 years. The alarms are also equipped with a "hush" feature which discourages residents from trying to take out the battery to silence the alarm.
A number of new laws will go into effect on October 1, including the governor's controversial Firearm Safety Act. Under the new legislation, which the governor helped push through the General Assembly, anyone buying a handgun will have to submit fingerprints to obtain a license. The bill also bans 45 types of assault weapons, but those who own the weapons before the law goes into effect will be allowed to keep them.
RELATED COVERAGE ON NBCWASHINGTON.COM:
- Gas Tax Changes
- Governor Martin O'Malley Signs Gas Tax, Announces Projects
- Bay Bridge Tolls Going Up
- Governor Martin O'Malley Signs Gun Control Bill
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