Maryland bill would ban balloon releases

Letting a balloon float away in Maryland would draw in a fine of $250, under a bill sponsored by Sen. Clarence Lam, D-Howard and Baltimore counties, legislation that is similar to a Queen Anne’s County law.

Board approves $9 million for five wrongly convicted men

The Maryland Board of Public Works on Wednesday approved $9 million to award to five men who were wrongly convicted.

Hogan directs wrongfully convicted to be paid; post office renovations approved

Gov. Larry Hogan, R, said payments to five men wrongfully imprisoned in Maryland would be awarded in two weeks, at the next meeting of the Maryland Board of Public Works. On Wednesday, the board also approved a $9.7 million payment to continue converting a onetime post office in downtown Annapolis into offices for the governor’s staff.

Opening the curtains: The data behind 90 days in Annapolis

Capital News Service gathered data from the 2019 legislative session and conducted an analysis to report on some of the most striking takeaways from the General Assembly.

Remembering Michael Busch, Maryland’s longtime House Speaker

On Sunday, Michael Busch passed away. He was 72. Busch spent over three decades in the Maryland House of Delegates, and 16 years as the Speaker. He was a mentor to both sides of the aisle, a staple of Maryland politics, and a friend to many. As the general assembly wrapped up, everyone’s hearts were with the late Speaker.

Maryland lawmakers close out 2019 session, honor Speaker Michael Busch

Maryland lawmakers worked through bills and meetings to close the 2019 state legislative session on Sine Die, despite the somber mood set by Speaker Michael Busch’s death.

Final day of General Assembly filled with sorrow as the legislature wraps up

Final day of General Assembly filled with sorrow as the legislature wraps up.

New report on the Chesapeake Bay finds encouraging signs

The latest report on the health of the Chesapeake Bay and its watershed finds improving conditions for some of the key barometers.

Acting Baltimore mayor draws lawmakers’ optimism, support

Members of the General Assembly from Baltimore said they have confidence in ex-officio Mayor Bernard “Jack” Young, the city council’s president, after meeting with him early Tuesday morning. Young is taking over the city’s helm after Mayor Catherine Pugh — who is under scrutiny for undeclared sales of children’s books to and through organizations doing business with the city — stepped aside for health reasons.

House and Senate override Governor’s veto of minimum wage increase

After Governor Hogan on Wednesday vetoed a $15 minimum wage in Maryland, the House and the Senate less than 24 hours later voted to override the veto. As a result, the first increase will kick in January 1, 2020, when the minimum wage will become $11 an hour. It will reach $15 in 2026.