ANNAPOLIS, Md. — This week Governor Larry Hogan[R] announced expanded vaccine eligibility, laying out the state’s vaccination plan going into the spring. The General Assembly had a busy week while both chambers continue to push forward more legislation and the FY2022 budget.


Stories of the Week

  • Hogan announced the expansion of vaccine eligibility this week, coming off the heels of lifting numerous statewide public health measures, and Maryland reaching 2 million total vaccinations. The governor said that the state will enter phase 2A starting on March 23, which would expand eligibility to adults over 60. Then, on March 30, the state will enter stage 2B which will include Marylanders 16 years and up who have underlying health conditions. Hogan’s roadmap currently has Maryland on track for citizens 16 and up to eligible for vaccination by April 27th.
  • The Maryland House of Delegates approved the state’s 2022 budget on Thursday while adjusting some of the governor’s provisions. The budget currently sits at around $50 billion, and the second reading passed favorably in the House of Delegates with amendments from the House Appropriations Committee. Some notable amendments included the house’s plan to phase out Hogan’s BOOST program, and additional funds for state parks and recreation maintenance. The House is now set to vote on the third reading of the budget before it will be sent to the senate.


Bill to Watch

HB 236: Department of General Services – Energy-Conserving Standards (Maryland Sustainable Buildings Act of 2021): This bill would establish a standard for state buildings, requiring they maintain accounting for energy conservation and adverse effect on local bird populations. Status: Third Reading Passed in the House.

HB 700: Education – Crimes on School Grounds – Exemptions: This bill would grant exceptions for students who are either attending the school or are on the premise of school-sanctioned activities from being charged with a misdemeanor for disturbing school activities. Status: Third Reading Passed in the House.

HB 832: Public Utilities – Electric School Bus Pilot Program: This bill would create a program to start implementing electric school buses in the state. Status: Third Reading Passed in the House.

HB 1352: Campaign Finance Reports – Business Contributors – Registration: This bill would require the Maryland Board of Elections and the Department of Assessments and Taxation to compile data on business contributions to political campaigns Status: Third Reading Passed in the House.

Contact Tyler at tylerchesser@thebaynet.com