Maryland lawmakers overrode Gov. Wes Moore’s veto to create a commission that will study potential reparations for slavery, despite his argument that the state should focus on direct action rather than further study. Supporters say a formal commission is necessary to ensure reparations efforts are credible, constitutional and effective.
Category: Maryland News
Posted inMaryland News
Maryland lawmakers launch bid to slash the cost of asthma treatments
Maryland Rep. Kweisi Mfume and Sen. Angela Alsobrooks are advancing legislation designed to bring down the soaring cost of inhalers, nebulizers and other essential respiratory treatments. Their proposal would cap monthly expenses for insured and uninsured patients alike, expanding Medicare coverage and easing the financial strain on families managing asthma. The lawmakers say the measure is urgently needed as hospitalizations and racial disparities in respiratory illness continue to climb.
Posted inMaryland Government
Krystal Oriadha elected chair of Prince George’s County Council
Krystal Oriandha, a Kenyan American activist, was unanimously elected as the new chair of the Prince George’s County Council. She aims to make the county a national model for child-care access and affordability.
Posted inMaryland Government
Lester Davis speaks on first 100 days as chief of staff for Gov. Wes Moore
By Megan SaylesAFRO Staff Writermsayles@afro.com It’s been a little over a month since Lester Davis, former vice president and chief of staff for CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield (Carefirst), took over as Maryland Governor Wes Moore’s chief of staff. Davis brings more than a decade of public service experience, including serving as deputy chief of staff for […]
Posted inMaryland News
Settlement with Cracker Barrel over allegations, disability discrimination involving students with autism at Waldorf restaurant
Maryland officials announced a settlement with Cracker Barrel resolving allegations that students with autism from Dr. James Craik Elementary School faced discrimination during a 2024 visit to the company’s Waldorf restaurant. Under the agreement, Cracker Barrel will pay $75,000 to affected students, donate to school programs, and revise its public accommodation policies nationwide to comply with disability rights laws.
Posted inMaryland Government
Del. Joseline Peña-Melnyk leads race for Maryland House speakership role
Sources close to the AFRO say Del. Joseline Peña-Melnyk (D-MD-District 21), 59, is poised to become Maryland’s next Speaker of the House of Delegates when votes are held on Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2025.
Posted inMaryland News
Maryland leaders praise Speaker Adrienne Jones as she steps down from historic, transformative tenure
News of Maryland House Speaker Adrienne A. Jones’ immediate departure from her speakership role in the state legislature has led to an outpouring of love and appreciation for her time as the first woman and first Black person to hold the role. Leaders across the state credited her with steady, principled leadership through crises, landmark legislative victories, and major investments in HBCUs and underserved communities.
Posted inClimate Change
New Braveboy summit highlights county’s plan for a greener future
Prince George’s County, Md., held its inaugural Braveboy Climate Leadership Summit, drawing hundreds to discuss climate resilience and clean energy. Officials highlighted rising costs, flooding concerns and commitments to advance the county’s climate action plan.
Posted inMaryland News
Francis Scott Key Bridge rebuild now estimated at $4.3–$5.2 Billion, opening delayed to late 2030
The rebuild of the Francis Scott Key Bridge is now estimated to cost between $4.3 and $5.2 billion, with an anticipated reopening delayed until late 2030. Rising material costs, federally mandated safety upgrades, and expanded pier protection have all contributed to the higher price and extended timeline, highlighting the complexity of reconstructing one of Maryland’s most critical transportation links.
Posted inMaryland Government
Maryland House Speaker Adrienne Jones steps down after six years
Maryland House Speaker Adrienne Jones announces resignation after six years of service. She made history as the first African American and first woman to hold the position.
Posted inHealth
Laila’s Gift hosts inaugural We C.A.R.E. Conference for caregivers
Laila’s Gift hosted its first We C.A.R.E. Conference in Annapolis, Md., providing caregivers of children with special needs with education, resources and community support. The event also introduced the Laila Elopement Awareness and Dissemination (LEAD) Act to address elopement risks statewide.
Posted inMaryland News
Anne Arundel County hosts local event apologizing for role in slavery
On Saturday, Nov. 22, Anne Arundel County released an official apology for their role in slavery, and the impact it has had on the community.