MEA Launches a Brand New Lawton Loan Program

The newest cycle of the Jane E. Lawton Conservation Loan Program is now open and accepting applications. The Lawton program has undergone some changes for the new Fiscal Year 2020 (FY20) due to newly passed legislation (House Bill 170) which allows Maryland State Agencies access to the program in addition to Maryland non-profit organizations, local governments, and businesses. 

A total of $2,050,000 dollars will be available under FY20 Lawton program however, funds will be divided for appropriate distribution. During the first six months of the fiscal year, State agencies will enjoy exclusive access to a $1,200,000 dollars set-aside, and simultaneously, non-profits, local governments, and qualified Maryland businesses have access to an allowance of $850,000 dollars.  Of that amount, $205,000 dollars will be reserved for non-profit organizations for the first three months of the year. After the first three months, the non-profit reservation is lifted. After six months, the set-asides for State agencies versus all other sectors are lifted so that applicants may apply for the remaining, co-mingled balance on a first-come-first-served basis. 

Additional information about the program, including the application, can be found here, please contact program manager David Giusti at david.giusti1@maryland.gov or (410) 537-4072 or call 1-800-72-ENERGY if you have additional questions.