Maryland’s Democrat-controlled legislature passed a bill aimed at aiding employees at the Port of Baltimore affected by the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse. The collapse on March 26 had a significant impact on the port, prompting lawmakers to act in the final weeks of the legislative session. The bill allows for the use of the state’s rainy day fund to support port employees who are out of work and not covered by unemployment insurance while the port remains closed or partially closed.
Baltimore County Republican Sen. Johnny Ray Salling expressed optimism about the bill, stating that it would make a difference for the workers affected by the bridge collapse. In addition to providing support for port employees, the bill also authorizes the governor to use state reserves to assist small businesses in avoiding layoffs and to encourage companies that relocated to other ports to return to Baltimore once the port reopens. Governor Wes Moore, a Democrat, expressed pride in the administration’s response to the Key Bridge crisis and stated that the emergency legislation is necessary to support businesses and workers affected by the collapse.
Governor Moore is expected to sign the emergency legislation on Tuesday, which would immediately put the bill into effect. The bill, known as the PORT Act, aims to provide support to businesses and workers impacted by the collapse of the Key Bridge. Lawmakers also approved the state’s $63 billion budget, which includes some tax and fee increases to fund transportation and education initiatives. The passage of the bill and budget marks a significant step towards providing relief for those affected by the bridge collapse and ensuring continued support for key economic sectors in Maryland.
In addition to providing support for port employees and businesses affected by the bridge collapse, the bill also aims to encourage companies to return to Baltimore once the port reopens. The legislative response to the crisis highlights the importance of addressing the needs of workers and businesses impacted by infrastructure failures and disruptions. By utilizing the state’s rainy day fund and reserves, lawmakers seek to mitigate the economic impact of the bridge collapse and support the recovery of the Port of Baltimore as a critical economic engine for the region.
Overall, the passage of the bill and the state budget reflects a commitment to addressing the immediate needs of those affected by the Key Bridge collapse while also ensuring long-term support for key economic sectors in Maryland. The emergency legislation and budget adjustments demonstrate a proactive response to a significant infrastructure crisis and provide a framework for ongoing recovery efforts in the state. By prioritizing relief for workers and businesses impacted by the bridge collapse, lawmakers are working to restore stability and promote economic growth in the wake of a major disruption to the Port of Baltimore.
