The Bladensburg Peace Cross, which honors 49 Prince George’s County residents who were killed in World War I, is being challenged as a violation of the separation of church and state. Plaintiffs say the 40-foot-tall cross, standing on government property, is an endorsement of Christianity. Defenders of the monument argue it is a secular remembrance honoring veterans. Oral arguments will be heard in the Supreme Court Wednesday.
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House Democrats introduce bill to fight voter suppression
In 1965, the Voting Rights Act was passed, ensuring the right to vote to black voters as well as enforcing oversight of places where voter suppression was common. In 2013, the Supreme Court struck down the oversight requirement. House Democrats want to bring it back to guarantee that exclusionary voting laws are not passed.
State senate hears testimony on doctor-assisted suicide
The Senate Judicial Proceedings Committee on Tuesday heard testimony on legislation that would allow physicians assisted suicide under certain conditions. The bill faced a hearing in a House committee last week.
Preparations underway for latest winter storm
The State Highway Administration started days ahead of the Wednesday’s snowfall to prepare roads around Maryland for the latest winter storm. Locals also made sure they were ready with snow removal supplies for the predicted snowfall of up to six inches.
Anne Arundel teen maintains silent State House protest to support the environment
14-year-old Kallan Benson is making her voice heard…through silence. The Crownsville teenager is staging her protest in the shadows of the Maryland State House through the entire 90 days of the legislative session. Kallan wants lawmakers to approve legislation calling for an amendment to the state constitution guaranteeing the public’s right to clean air, clean water and a clean environment.
Bill would mandate teaching about the Holocaust in schools
A recent survey found that almost one fifth of those between 18 and 34 had not heard of–or were not sure if they heard of–the Holocaust. With that in mind, Montgomery County Senator Ben Kramer is sponsoring a bill that would require a course on the Holocaust be taught in all public and private schools throughout the state.
Maryland legislature considers limits on the use of plastic straws in restaurants
The House Economic Matters Committee on Wednesday heard from both supporters and opponents of a bill that would severely limit the availability and use of plastic straws in restaurants starting in 2020.
Annual Montgomery County program helps with preparing women leaders for the future
The theme for this year’s annual Women’s Legislative Briefing, sponsored by the Montgomery County Commission for Women, was “Women Igniting and Achieving Change.” Elected officials, activists and future leaders spent the day on issues impacting women and young girls throughout the state.