Maryland Department of Labor takes 1st step in making paid family, medical leave insurance available to 2.5 million workers

BALTIMORE, MD—The Maryland Department of Labor is moving forward with plans to implement paid family and medical leave for Maryland workers. The Board of Public Works approved two contracts this week to begin developing the digital system that will support the program. The Maryland Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FAMLI) program will provide eligible employees with up to 12 weeks […]

Governor Moore unveils plan to tackle Baltimore’s vacant property crisis

BALTIMORE, MD—Governor Wes Moore has announced an executive order to establish Reinvest Baltimore, an initiative to address the city’s vacant property crisis. The program will be a coordinated effort between the state, city, nonprofits, and for-profit partners, with the goal of revitalizing neighborhoods and maximizing economic potential and quality of life for residents. “Baltimore’s vacant property crisis is an issue […]

Governor Moore declares October as Maryland Apple Month

ANNAPOLIS, MD—In celebration of the fall harvest, Governor Wes Moore has declared October as “Maryland Apple Month.” The Maryland Department of Agriculture’s Maryland’s Best program is encouraging residents to support local farmers and enjoy the state’s abundant apple crop by participating in the “Take a Bite of Maryland” promotion. As part of the promotion, a new character, Apple Buddy, has […]

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 […]

Maryland kicks off Homegrown School Lunch Week

ANNAPOLIS, MD—Governor Wes Moore has declared that September 30 – October 4 is Maryland Homegrown School Lunch Week. This week is dedicated to promoting local food in schools and introducing students to the importance of healthy and fresh foods. The Maryland Homegrown School Lunch Week is part of the Maryland Farm to School Program, which is run by the Maryland […]

NOW YOU KNOW: Family budgets are tight

The following is an update from Delegates Kathy Szeliga and Ryan Nawrocki. Family budgets are tight. According to economists, food prices have increased more than 25% since 2020 (editor’s note: in 2022, food prices increased by 9.9 percent, faster than in any year since 1979). To put that in perspective, a cart of groceries that cost you $100 in November […]

Maryland to offer free AI courses to state employees

BALTIMORE, MD—The Maryland Department of Information Technology (DoIT) this week announced that it is offering free AI courses and workshops to state employees. This is part of an effort to make the technology more accessible and responsible for the public sector. The State of Maryland’s educational AI resources are made possible through its partnership with InnovateUS, a non-profit organization dedicated […]