Maryland lawmakers are set to convene on Monday for the final day of their legislative session, with a focus on passing priority legislation. One of the key measures being considered is the PORT Act, which aims to assist employees at the Port of Baltimore affected by the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge. The use of the state’s rainy day fund to help these employees has strong support and is expected to pass. Lawmakers are also working on a measure to rebuild Baltimore’s Pimlico Race Course, home of the Preakness Stakes.
Lawmakers have already passed several public safety measures during this session, including measures to protect officials such as judges and elections officials. One measure allows Maryland judges to shield personal information online to prevent hostile individuals from tracking them down. Another bill enables authorities to prosecute people who threaten election officials or their family members. These measures come in response to increasing threats against officials in a major election year.
Governor Wes Moore’s legislative agenda has seen progress, with many of his proposed measures either already approved or on track for final passage. The governor has advocated for measures aimed at making housing more affordable and protecting renters in Maryland, addressing what he refers to as a true housing crisis in the state. Moore has also supported legislation addressing child poverty, drawing on his experience as the former CEO of a poverty-fighting organization.
Lawmakers have passed juvenile justice reforms aimed at improving accountability and rehabilitation for young offenders. One key provision of the reforms involves bringing children as young as 10 into the juvenile justice system for certain offenses, such as handgun violations and auto theft. The reforms also include greater oversight of personnel in the juvenile justice system and increased documentation requirements for detained youths. The fate of the Pimlico Race Course reconstruction measure remains uncertain as the legislative session comes to a close.
On Friday, lawmakers gave final approval to the state’s $63 billion budget, which includes tax and fee increases to support education and transportation initiatives. While some lawmakers had hoped for larger revenue increases, discussions on how to find additional revenues will be deferred until the next session beginning in January. Senate President Bill Ferguson expressed confidence in the final day of the session, stating that the major and complex issues had been addressed, and the focus would be on finalizing last-minute legislative matters. Governor Moore’s priorities and public safety measures were among the key accomplishments of this session.
