Big Win for Wildlife and Road Safety: Maryland Enacts Wildlife Connectivity and Crossings Act
Annapolis, Maryland — May 13, 2025 — We’re thrilled to announce that Governor Wes Moore has signed the Wildlife Connectivity and Crossings Act (HB0731/SB0635) into law, marking a major step forward for Maryland’s wildlife, drivers, and ecosystems.
This landmark legislation, championed by Delegate Sheila Ruth and Senator Karen Lewis Young, will help reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions, support habitat connectivity, and ensure safer passage for animals across Maryland’s roadways. This law builds on recent momentum, like the $387,424 federal Wildlife Crossings Pilot Program grant awarded to Maryland to advance crossings in the state.
This landmark legislation will help reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions that cost Maryland more than $100 million each year, formalize the Maryland Connectivity Coalition to continue advancing wildlife crossing projects, and ensure habitat connectivity is considered in future transportation and land-use planning decisions. As Maryland grows, these measures will safeguard the state’s natural heritage while protecting human lives and property. Read the full fact sheet here.
Wildlands Network played a leading role in getting this bill across the finish line—working alongside Delegate Sheila Ruth and Senator Karen Lewis Young, and convening over 30 partner organizations to build support, provide expertise, and champion the cause through two sessions of the Maryland General Assembly. We’re proud to have worked with so many passionate partners and advocates to help make this law a reality. Together, we’re making Maryland a national leader in wildlife protection and transportation safety.
Please support our ongoing work to advance forward-thinking policies that protect wildlife and the places they call home.
Story photo by: Lori A Cash
