Legislation that would increase state and local 9-1-1 fees in Maryland — part of the Next Generation 9-1-1 initiative that would allow faster communication with emergency responders via text, photos and videos — passed both the House and Senate this week.
Annapolis
Maryland may expand electric vehicle tax credits
State legislation could increase the tax credit received per electric vehicle to $3,000. The maximum price of a vehicle that qualifies could be increased from $60,000 to $63,000.
Delegate Jay Jalisi unanimously reprimanded by House
The Maryland House chamber on Wednesday voted unanimously to reprimand Delegate Jay Jalisi, D-Baltimore County, following the recommendations of a joint ethics committee that compiled reports of abusive behavior against his staff for the past four years.
Maryland may raise smoking age to 21, limit vape marketing
State legislation could raise the age to purchase tobacco and vapor products in Maryland from 18 to 21. Another bill would prohibit vapes from being sold in packaging that appeals to minors.
Bills would fund HIV prevention, tracking, testing rape kits
Multiple bills that would provide for protection and treatment victims of sexual assault, as well as assist local law enforcement agencies with the testing and tracking of rape kits, are making their way through the House and Senate. These bills are the byproducts of a January report on sexual assault evidence kits in the state.
Bills would permit high school voter registration in Maryland
A process would be set up at high schools to allow eligible students to register to vote under bills making their way through the House and Senate.
Organ donation could be taught in Md. schools
State legislation could add material on organ and tissue donation to public high school curriculum. Other Maryland legislation would ensure unpaid leave for those recovering from living organ donation as well as prohibit insurance companies from not allowing a client to make an organ or tissue donation.
Bill would give some Md. students free eyeglasses and exams
Students in Maryland public schools who fail required vision screenings and do not receive recommended services would be provided free eye examinations and eyeglasses by a new Maryland Department of Health program, under legislation expected to be heard by a Senate committee on Wednesday.