Maryland Governor Wes Moore has declared a state of emergency and announced $10 million in assistance to food banks across the state, responding to the imminent expiration of SNAP benefits at the end of October. The move comes as the federal government shutdown continues, threatening food assistance for thousands of residents. According to Sarah Petrowich of WYPR, Moore is sending funds to food banks and partners statewide, bypassing the federal SNAP program to ensure continued support for vulnerable populations.
The state's action follows reports from D.C. and Maryland officials who announced millions in aid Thursday to help residents at risk of losing SNAP benefits. The Washington Post's Katie Shepherd and Jenny Gathright detailed the efforts, emphasizing the urgency as the shutdown drags on. Comptroller Brooke Lierman joined state lawmakers in pushing for state action to make up for federal food assistance that may run dry starting this weekend, as reported by Danielle J. Brown of Maryland Matters.
The shutdown has also created financial uncertainty for thousands of federal workers and contractors in Maryland. Clara Long de Freitas of The Baltimore Banner highlighted that the current shutdown is the second longest in U.S. history, leaving many without pay. The state's emergency declaration and funding aim to mitigate the immediate impact on food security.
In other news, Maryland State Senator Attar, her brother, and a Baltimore City Police officer face federal charges in an alleged blackmail scheme. According to Bryan P. Sears of Maryland Matters, they are accused of attempting to blackmail a political consultant from speaking out against Attar ahead of the 2022 election. The Baltimore Banner's Lee O. Sanderlin noted that the charges stem from a recently unsealed federal indictment, adding to Maryland's history of political scandal as covered by Pamela Wood and Lee O. Sanderlin.
Meanwhile, the state's foster care system remains under scrutiny. Republican delegates have called for Governor Moore to fire Rafael J. López, secretary of the Department of Human Services, following a scathing audit and the death of a teen in foster care. Jean Marbella of The Baltimore Sun reported the calls for action, while Bryan P. Sears of Maryland Matters noted López's insistence that the agency is working to address issues.
Child care costs are also a concern, with families potentially waiting until after the Maryland General Assembly returns to Annapolis for help. The scholarship program, which began in 2018, has seen enrollment soar to over 46,000 children, exceeding the state's capacity, as reported by William J. Ford of Maryland Matters.
Progress continues on the Key Bridge rebuild, with new renderings shared as design nears completion. Hayes Gardner of The Baltimore Banner described the early stages of construction. Additionally, Carroll County has updated solar zoning laws to align with state regulations, as reported by Lily Carey of the Carroll County Times.
Other notable developments include an ambassador's visit to Annapolis for a circular economy forum, Baltimore County executive candidates discussing transparency, and the approval of a Turning Point USA chapter at Anne Arundel Community College. The Maryland Piedmont Reliability Project also faces proposed route changes, with 11 tweaks including a cut through New Windsor, as reported by Lily Carey.
