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 on the grounds it contains offensive and outdated language is advancing in the Legislature this week.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.
Democrats want total ban on members carrying guns in the U.S. Capitol
In the wake of the Jan. 6 assault on the United States Capitol and some members of Congress carrying firearms near the House floor, Democratic lawmakers are proposing a ban on guns in Congress. “I’ve been pushing for years to…
Biden administration attempts to revive Iran nuclear talks, but tensions persist
The Biden administration’s attempts to revive talks with Iran over curbing its nuclear program are complicated by continuing tensions over human rights abuses, the unsolved fate of the longest-held American hostage, Iranian proxy attacks on U.S. troops in Iraq, and…
A bill set to legalize marijuana in Maryland aims to give back to the community
Delegate Jazz Lewis’s House Bill 32 would legalize and regulate the recreational use of Marijuana in Maryland. Sixty-three percent of the tax revenue would go toward HBCU’s and communities affected by poverty and racism.
Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott announces partnership to create a database to track guns in the city
Baltimore is partnering with nonprofit Everytown for Gun Safety after a recent uptick in gun violence. Mayor Brandon Scott and Baltimore’s police commissioner say this should help get guns off the streets and allow police to make more arrests.