Lawmakers Consider Measure That Would Mandate Paid Sick Leave

The Maryland Earned Sick and Safe Leave Act would make the state the second in the nation to require private sector businesses to provide paid sick days to workers.

Minimum Wage Hike Debated Before Maryland Lawmakers

Business owners, low-wage workers, economists and community leaders crowded into an overflowing House committee room Tuesday to offer testimony alongside Gov. Martin O’Malley on a handful of proposals seeking to change Maryland’s minimum wage.

Inmates Drive Workforce at Anne Arundel Food Bank

The Anne Arundel County Food and Resources Bank relies on a dozen inmates to perform the bulk of the food bank’s heavy lifting in return for time trimmed off sentences.

Lack of Manpower at Maryland Food Bank Slows Flow of Donations to Pantries

The Maryland Food Bank has the supplies to meet the high demands of local pantries. But it doesn’t have the manpower and needs volunteers.

O’Malley Pushes Minimum Wage Increase in his Last State of the State Address

O’Malley urged members of the Maryland General Assembly to pass legislation increasing the state’s minimum wage to $10.10 an hour, telling lawmakers that a thriving middle class is the key to a thriving economy.

With Minimum Wage Debate Set to Take Center Stage, Some Believe the County Makes the Difference

Maryland is primed for a battle between lawmakers who are pushing a statewide increase of the minimum wage and others who believe that one comprehensive hike doesn’t make sense.

Lawmakers Introduce Measure to Legalize, Tax Marijuana in Maryland

The proposed Marijuana Control Act of 2014 would make it legal for Maryland residents to possess, use and grow marijuana, which would be regulated and taxed like alcohol.

Brown Tells Lawmakers That Reports Gave No Warning of Botched Health Care Rollout

Brown said reports he received as overseer of Maryland’s health care reform failed to alert him to major glitches that would mark the launch of the state’s health care exchange website.

Minimum Wage, “Rain Tax” and Marijuana: Md. Legislature 2014

Members of the House and Senate convened Wednesday to start the legislative session.