Taxes On Textbooks May Be Kept Without Vote

Delegate Michael D. Smigiel Sr. presented a bill that would eliminate the sales tax for college textbooks. For the seventh time since 2006, it may die without a vote.

Delegates to Offer Amendments Despite Momentum of Death Penalty Repeal

Several Maryland delegates are preparing to argue to keep the death penalty for certain aggravating circumstances. The death penalty repeal bill will be debated in the House Wednesday.

Groups Call for Special Session, Republicans Disagree

Several Maryland groups on Wednesday pressured lawmakers to reconvene for a special session and prevent more than $500 million in cuts under the “doomsday” budget, rejecting Republican claims that the current budget is sufficient.

Legislators Seek Information on Warrants for DNR Tracking Devices

Two Maryland legislators are using a Supreme Court decision to pressure the Department of Natural Resources into releasing warrants used to install GPS devices on boats last year.

Eastern Shore Delegation Speaks Passionately Against PlanMaryland

Eastern Shore delegates told a state official Friday that Gov. Martin O’Malley’s PlanMaryland, which seeks to control sprawl, amounts to centralized planning and will restrict the private property rights of rural residents.