Prince George’s County Launches Private Security Camera Incentive Program

The Alsobrooks Administration has announced the launch of the Private Security Camera Incentive Program, which aims to enhance community safety by increasing the number of security cameras in priority areas across Prince George's County, including Langley Park, Glassmanor, and Walker Mill. "We are committed to reducing crime and promoting equity throughout Prince George’s County," said County Executive Alsobrooks. "This program builds on our track record of success in fighting crime and empowers residents and businesses…

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Two Bills Pass Enhancing Protections for County Officials and Employees

The General Assembly moved two bills during the 2024 legislative session that help protect local election officials as well as county roadway engineers and construction crews.  The types of threats that affect various members of the county workforces has evolved in recent years. Unmitigated risk can directly impact the willingness and enthusiasm for qualified candidates to explore certain career pathways. Two bills passed during the 2024 legislative session that will have a direct impact on…

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Talbot Detention Center Receives Recognition of Excellence in Operations

Routine audit by the Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services shows Talbot facility in 100 percent compliance with the highest standards and state law.  Maryland law requires each local detention center to be reviewed regularly for compliance with all standards and regulations. These audit procedures take place every three years. A rating of 100 percent demonstrates the hard work and determination of the staff in keeping the facility in proper condition and staying…

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2024 Session: Recap and Wrap-Ups

Catch up on all of the latest outcomes of the 2024 Maryland General Assembly session with wrap-ups on important county-related bills in each policy area. Maryland’s 446th legislative session convened amidst a substantial concern over the State’s fiscal situation, with weakened revenues and cost increases for many services at every level of government. Despite the budgetary limitations, many policy issues received a full debate, with many resolutions arising from the 90-day annual process. MACo’s legislative…

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2024 End of Session Wrap Up: Public Safety and Corrections

The segments below provide a brief overview of MACo’s work on pubic safety and corrections policies in the 2024 General Assembly session.  Counties are primary providers of public safety services in the state. Each county must have an elected sheriff with deputies, and some also have a county police force. Additionally, each county operates a local jail that holds inmates awaiting trial and those sentenced to 18 months or less. Maryland's 446th legislative session convened…

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2024 End of Session Wrap-Up: Emergency Services

The segments below provide a brief overview of MACo's advocacy in emergency services policy in the 2024 General Assembly session. County governments lead the delivery of public safety services in Maryland and are responsible for county fire, police, and emergency services. MACo's advocacy in emergency services includes urging for much-needed state support for local public services such as 9-1-1 call centers, front-line county services, and natural disaster response. Maryland's 446th legislative session convened amidst a…

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Counties Support Flexibility for SRO Grant Uses, Requests Permanent Funding

On March 27, 2024, Associate Policy Director Brianna January submitted written testimony to the House Appropriations Committee in support of SB 1077- Public Schools - Appropriations for School Safety Expenditures - School Security Employees with amendments. As amended, this bill authorizes increased funding for the School Resource Officer (SRO) Grant Program beginning in FY 2026. It also authorizes the grant funds to be used for personnel costs for school security employees (SSEs) in addition to…

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Counties Face April Reporting for Federal ARPA/SLFRF Funds – FAQs Available from NACo

NACo has developed resources with the US Department of the Treasury, to help guide counties in their upcoming April 30 reporting due on federal funds provided through congressional enactments during the coronavirus emergency. On April 30, 2024, annual Project and Expenditure (P&E) Reports are due to the U.S. Department of Treasury (Treasury) for all counties, parishes and boroughs that received American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF). These required, periodic…

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Evidence-Based Concern for Traffic Safety Amongst Legislative Proposals

Evidence backs up concern that Maryland's roadways are becoming more dangerous, as legislators propose new penalties and provisions to curb the number of deadly incidents. Following alarming reports at the end of 2023, citing the deadliest year on the state roadways in almost two decades, public officials turned a critical eye on how to make Maryland safer for drivers, riders, and pedestrians. With a little over two weeks left in the legislative session, a handful…

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