Maryland

The road AHEAD: Maryland to be a test-subject state in new federal hospital model

The federal AHEAD model aims to help participating states implement what’s called a total cost of care model, in which states take responsibility and accountability for health outcomes of their patients.

How states are cracking down on rising prescription drug costs

From creating drug price review boards to bulk purchasing medications, state officials are keen on keeping health care costs down amid skyrocketing prescription costs.

‘Death by a thousand cuts’: A look at Big Tech’s efforts to influence data privacy

Maine’s struggles to pass such a law have familiar ring for Maryland lawmakers.

Amid a housing crisis, hospitals offer a dose of relief

The housing crisis may be too big for state and local governments to overcome. That’s why hospitals are stepping in to remedy housing and health care gaps.

New Maryland law enables local jurisdictions to impose higher taxes on vacant properties

The legislation aims to reduce the number of lots and houses that sit vacant for years on end in an effort to solve the state's affordable housing shortage.

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States, White House gear up to bring prescription costs down

Maryland’s prescription drug affordability board will evaluate eight drugs for potential cost reduction. The federal government could help move the process along, one expert says.

Port aid, protections for highway and election workers signed into law

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore signed bills supporting Baltimore-area businesses and workers affected by the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge.

Study: Gas-powered lawn mowers and leaf blowers produce as much pollution as long car trips

A report from the Maryland Department of the Environment report recommends that state and local governments promote the use of electric lawn equipment instead of air polluting tools like leafblowers.

Digital Driver’s Licenses Expand

Maryland has become the first state to offer digital licenses and IDs for both Apple and Android devices. At least 17 states allow for digital licenses.

States Should Improve Opportunities for Older Youth in Foster Care Systems

An Annie E. Casey Foundation report said more investments are needed toward job training, post-secondary education and stable housing for those in foster care between the ages of 14 and 21.

Governor Recommits Maryland to Highest National Climate Goals for EV Sales

Gov. Wes Moore's decision reverses one by former Gov. Larry Hogan to pause Maryland's participation in meeting the California standard for electric vehicles.

State & Local Roundup: A Historic Week for a New Governor

Plus: Pennsylvania ditches state job degree requirements. Pickleball! News you can use from across the country.

With New Power in 4 States, Democrats Prepare to Push for Previously Blocked Priorities

After key midterm wins, the party will gain additional “trifectas” in 2023, holding both legislative chambers and the governor’s office. The change will unlock new policymaking possibilities.

A Governor Declares Dec. 23 a Holiday for State Employees

"This is just another way to show our appreciation to our dedicated state workers," the state chief executive said.

States Post Yellow Alerts to Try to Nab Hit-and-Run Drivers

Hit-and-run crash fatalities in the United States jumped 26% from 2019 to 2020.

The Rise of the Trump Agenda in This Year's Governors Races

Republicans in a number of key gubernatorial contests want to pursue priorities in state government aligned with the former president's platform. Will the strategy work to win over voters?

Maryland is Ending 4-year Degree Requirements for Thousands of State Government Jobs

Officials there say the proposal is first of its kind among states. It comes as agencies are grappling with worker shortages.

The States and Counties Taking Russian Vodka Off Liquor Store Shelves

Removing Russian-made products from government-run stores “is just the right thing to do,” one official said.

Librarians Now Frontline Workers in Combating Covid-19

Public libraries nationwide are handing out test kits and masks in a growing effort by counties and cities to better protect their residents from the virus.

Governor Declares State of Emergency Due to Covid Surge

Coronavirus hospitalizations in Maryland are headed towards a record peak, said Gov. Larry Hogan, who is activating state National Guard members to help with response efforts.