Maryland lawmakers discussed a bill that would replace Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples’ Day, considering testimony from members of the Indigenous peoples and Italian peoples who argue Columbus is a part of their heritage.
Annapolis
Bill to repeal Maryland state song advancing in Legislature
A bill that would repeal Maryland’s state song “Maryland, My Maryland!” on the grounds it contains offensive and outdated language is advancing in the Legislature this week.
Md. bill reimbursing business property taxes would be costly
A Maryland lawmaker is vying for the state to reimburse personal property taxes to businesses reeling from the pandemic, though the refund could cost the state an estimated $365 million. Last year, Maryland businesses paid an average of $2,860 in these property taxes, which include physical assets that businesses need to operate –– like refrigerators at restaurants and swivel chairs at barber shops.
Maryland bill would curb police use of military surplus equipment
A bill that could prevent law enforcement agencies in the state from purchasing certain military equipment via a federal surplus program was passed in the Maryland Senate.
Hogan eases COVID-19 capacity restrictions
Citing improved health metrics, Gov. Larry Hogan, R, announced the loosening of capacity restrictions on many Maryland businesses.
Maryland bill would ban firearms at election sites
A bill banning firearms at polling sites in Maryland is advancing in the state Legislature, and advocates say it is necessary to stop voter intimidation.
Bill would lessen punishment for some teen sexting
A bill passed in the Maryland House that clarifies sexting laws to include lesser punishments for juveniles who send illicit photos of themselves to peers.
Maryland lawmakers are close to adding HBCU funding
The bill would provide $577 million to Maryland’s four HBCUs over about 10 years.
Maryland bill would refine environmental justice commission
A bill in the Senate would reform a Maryland commission to reflect the diversity within the state and expand its duties to help vulnerable communities affected by environmental justice issues.
Legislation for control of the Baltimore Police moves to the House
Included a police-reform legislative package is SB0786, which would transfer control of the Baltimore Police Department from the state to the city for the first time in almost 160 years.