Governor Moore announces recommendations to modernize state permitting, remove barriers to employment

ANNAPOLIS, MD—Governor Wes Moore has announced preliminary recommendations from the Government Efficiency Commission to modernize Maryland’s occupational permitting and licensing processes. The recommendations aim to streamline vendor credentialing, improve permitting reliability and predictability, and eliminate employment barriers for all Marylanders. “Modernizing state government is not just a talking point for us — it’s a governing philosophy,” Moore said. “As we […]

MDOT MVA offers year-end safety reminders

BALTIMORE, MD—The Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) is reminding residents about important safety reminders and service updates as the new year approaches. These reminders aim to ensure the safety of all road users, whether they are driving, biking, or walking. One major change taking effect on January 1, 2025, is a new tiered fine system for work […]

Baltimore County man among Maryland’s first cold-related deaths of 2024-2025 winter weather season

BALTIMORE, MD—The Maryland Department of Health on Tuesday announced the state’s first three cold-related deaths for the 2024-2025 winter season. All three individuals were men, two in their 60s and one in his 30s. Two deaths occurred in Baltimore City, while the third was in Baltimore County. The first death was reported on November 23, with the other two occurring […]

Maryland launches mobile tool to check benefit eligibility

ANNAPOLIS, MD—Maryland has launched a new mobile-friendly tool to help residents see if they qualify for benefits such as Medicaid, food stamps, and energy assistance. Governor Wes Moore announced the launch of Maryland’s Unified Benefits Screener on December 13, 2024. It’s a joint initiative between the Maryland Departments of Human Services, Health, and Information Technology. Marylanders can quickly check their […]

Maryland Department of Health urges residents to take precautions to avoid cold-related illnesses during winter months

BALTIMORE, MD—With winter weather settling in, the Maryland Department of Health (MDH) is urging residents to take precautions against cold-related illnesses. The department emphasizes the importance of limiting exposure to the cold and dressing in layers when venturing outdoors. Dr. Nilesh Kalyanaraman, Deputy Secretary for Public Health Services, urges Marylanders to limit cold exposure. “If you must go outside, wear […]

Maryland Department of Health helps businesses comply with the updated Clean Indoor Air Act

BALTIMORE, MD—The Maryland Department of Health has released new resources to help businesses comply with the updated Clean Indoor Air Act. As of July 1, 2024, the act prohibits electronic smoking devices, such as vapes and e-cigarettes, in all indoor areas open to the public. “When the original Clean Indoor Air Act passed in 2007, electronic smoking devices were not […]

Maryland Department of Health issues consumer advisory for enoki mushrooms due to Listeria risk

BALTIMORE, MD—The Maryland Department of Health is warning consumers not to eat enoki mushrooms produced by Enoki King Mushroom Farm of Ventura, CA, because of potential contamination with Listeria bacteria. Samples collected and tested by the Maryland Department of Health in early October were positive for the Listeria bacteria. The Department is working with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration […]

Maryland kicks off fifth annual Walktober celebration

ANNAPOLIS, MD—As part of an effort to promote walking and other forms of sustainable transportation, Governor Wes Moore has proclaimed October as “Walktober.” The declaration marks the fifth annual Walktober celebration in the state. “Maryland’s sidewalks, crosswalks and trails are an essential part of our transportation network which helps provide safe and equitable access for all,” said Maryland Transportation Secretary […]