Rapidly Approaching Sine Die
McCray Messenger
April 8, 2016
This legislative session has moved very fast as we only have 3 days left until “Sine Die.” On Monday, April 11 we will have reached the 90th day of the 436th legislative session and the legislature will adjourn. Although we are rapidly approaching Sine Die, I want to use this blog to update you on the progress we are making on behalf of the 45th legislative district and the State of Maryland.
Some of the great things happening for Baltimore include:
House Bill 290 – This bill will facilitate the creation of a 100k grant, portions of which will be awarded to businesses that hire apprentices.
House Bill 1401 – This bill allocates funding from the State of Maryland for the Enoch Pratt Libraries in Baltimore City. The monies will help library branches remain open 7 days a week, from 9am to 9pm.
House Bill 1402 – This bill establishes a grant program called “Public School Opportunities Enhancement Program.” The grant provides $7,500,000 to create extended school days and summer enhancement programs for local school systems and community schools in which at least 50% of the local county or city students qualify for free or reduce lunch.
House Bill 1403 – This bill funds a program called “Next Generation Scholars of Maryland.” The program works with middle school students and is aimed at improving access to college. This program is open to jurisdictions in which 50% of the local county or city students qualify for free and reduce lunch.
*Note: the above graphic depicts the proposals submitted by the legislature. As such, they are not final until given final approval by the Governor. After the conclusion of this session, I will provide information on the impact that these proposals will have in our district.
This year’s capital budget also funds some exciting projects in and around the 45th legislative district, including:
Disparity Grant – $12 million dollars for Baltimore City Public Schools. There was a $22 million shortfall because of wealth equalization and declining population. The City of Baltimore has signed a memorandum of understanding to cover the other $10 million.
National Great Wax and Museum – Received a general fund appropriation of $40,000.
Kenney Krieger – Received $1,750,000 for construction of a new Comprehensive Center for Autism.
BARCO North Avenue Arts Building – Received $500,000 for the acquisition, planning, design, and construction of BARCO North Avenue Arts Building.
Baltimore Food Hub – Received $150,000 for the acquisition, planning, design, and construction equipping of a food hub facility, including construction of a food pantry, urban farm, and kitchen incubator.
Clifton Park – Received $500,000 for the acquisition, planning, and design for infrastructure improvements.
Frank C. Bocek Park – Received $300,000 for the acquisition, planning, and design, of infrastructure improvements.
Dr. Christina Phillips Community Center – Received $150,000 for the acquisition planning, design, and construction of real property.
International Black Fire Fighters Museum – Received $200,000 for acquisition planning, and design
Ulman Cancer Fund Home For Young Adult Cancer Patients – Received $200,000 for the acquisition, planning, design, and construction of real property.
East Baltimore Historical Library – Received $150,000 for renovation of the East Baltimore Historical Library.
Back in Baltimore:
If you know a young person living in Baltimore who is wants employment for pay, then register to interview through YouthWorks here.
Finally, come out to support Momma Move 5k and Family Fun Run and join the many other families, from all different backgrounds, as we transform East Baltimore into the “health hub” of the city. On April 30, 2016 the event will kick-off near Henderson-Hopkins at 8:30 am, with the race and celebration to follow. The race will be managed by Charm City Run and Atwater’s will be open with a special menu. Forrest City will provide parking.
Event details shared through social media on Facebook and Instagram @MommaMove. Register for the race here.
Listening. Learning. Leading.