AGP Executive Report

Baltimore Oversight Fight: A Baltimore judge ordered the Scott administration to restore the city Inspector General’s access to servers and databases within two business days, and to turn over subpoenaed documents—continuing a court battle over whether the mayor’s office improperly cut off anti-corruption work. Prince George’s Funding Clash: A $39 million dispute between the Maryland-National Capital Parks and Planning Commission and the Prince George’s County Council was delayed again after new filings and “clarifying” resolutions about how money is reimbursed. Harborplace Redevelopment Lawsuit: Baltimore community members and business owners sued to block demolition of Harborplace pavilions, arguing the project violates charter and zoning rules; a $900 million redevelopment is planned. Public Health Watch: The 13th COVID-19 wave is cresting nationally, with modeling suggesting infection patterns now resemble the 2021-22 surge. Local Schools & Food: Garrett County Public Schools launched “Maryland Mondays,” serving a locally produced item each week using a USDA-backed farm-to-school grant. Sports, Baltimore Focus: The Orioles beat the Blue Jays 4-3 on Pete Alonso’s two-run homer; Ravens coach Jesse Minter faced questions after a late third-and-1 play call in a loss to the Saints. Global/Regional: China’s Xi Jinping is set to visit the U.S., with Trump greeting him at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland.

Fraud Targeting Seniors: A Hyattsville man, Roy Dave Davis, 34, was charged with bank fraud after allegedly stealing more than $1 million from dozens of seniors through stolen personal data, rerouted mail, and thousands of fraudulent ATM withdrawals. Labor & Health Care: Baltimore’s St. Agnes Ascension nurses ratified their first union contract after years of fighting, winning pay increases, protections against mass layoffs, and limits on forced coverage outside expertise. Public Safety & Community Shock: Prince George’s County police are investigating a hanging death found near Upper Marlboro; officials say there’s no evidence of foul play so far, but residents are shaken. Local Government & Oversight: A coalition of labor and community groups protested Baltimore’s Harborplace developer tax-break deal, alleging closed-door process and harm to city finances. State Policy & Infrastructure: St. Mary’s County will host a public tour of MDOT’s $21.9 billion draft transportation plan for 2027-2032. Land Conservation: Washington County preserved a 167.56-acre dairy farm through a MALPF easement, adding to tens of thousands of acres already protected. Business & Tech: A UK quantum computing firm, Phasecraft, plans a U.S. headquarters in Arlington, signaling continued growth in next-gen tech hubs. Sports: The Saints improved to 1-1 with a comeback win over the Ravens, while Orioles and Blue Jays begin a crucial three-game series in Baltimore.

NFL Week 2, injuries and upsets: The Ravens were among the favorites to fall, while the Colts’ overtime play-calling came under fire after a late loss to the Chiefs; both Caleb Williams (hamstring) and Jayden Daniels (dislocated elbow) left games injured, and Dak Prescott surged past Tony Romo for Dallas’ TD record in a 37-20 win over Washington. Maryland sports, baseball: The Brewers kept rolling, blanking the Orioles again to complete a sweep and set a franchise regular-season wins record. Baltimore scams: The BBB logged 45 scam reports in Baltimore in August, with online purchase schemes the most common. Local community and culture: In D.C., GW students and neighbors are building momentum with the hip-hop dance group Capital Funk. Space and defense: At National Harbor, the U.S. Air Force chief said the Space Force has deployed “on-orbit space control weapons,” raising stakes with China and Russia. Middle East ripple effects: A Houthi strike on Riyadh disrupted flights and prompted renewed U.S. travel warnings, as Trump cut short a Maryland trip. Maryland business/tech: Gov. Wes Moore backed Maryland’s AI deal with Anthropic despite pushback.

White House Press Access Fight: Trump defended barring CNN, MS NOW, and Politico from White House grounds, with UN envoy Mike Waltz saying it’s “within his rights” and warning the outlets are preparing to challenge the move in court. Maryland AI Pushback: Gov. Wes Moore stood by Maryland’s 2025 AI deal with Anthropic despite party criticism, urging safety guardrails while insisting he doesn’t regret the partnership. Baltimore Gun Violence: A 33-year-old man was hospitalized after a shooting in Curtis Bay on Fairhaven Avenue; police say it was one of five overnight shootings. Trans Community Grief: Baltimore Police are investigating the Sept. 11 killing of transgender woman Sophie Lee, with no arrests and no motive announced. Ravens Game Day: Ravens host the Saints in Week 2 at M&T Bank Stadium, with Baltimore favored heavily as injuries loom. NFL Media & Sports News: Longtime NFL executive and former Giants GM Ernie Accorsi died at 84. International Watch: The U.S. warned Saudi-Iran-backed Houthi fighting could “escalate rapidly” after an attack on Riyadh. Local Sports: Brewers chase a club-record 98th win in their series finale vs. Orioles.

Maryland Politics & Voting Rights: Maryland Rep. Jamie Raskin headlined a Hampton Democrats’ picnic, urging turnout for the 2026 midterms and framing the election as a fight over Congress and democracy. Labor & Health Care: Ascension Saint Agnes nurses in Baltimore voted to ratify their first union contract, aiming to improve staffing, curb workplace violence, and protect against unsafe floating and mass layoffs. Education Funding: A federal judge vacated a U.S. Department of Education policy that had canceled about $600 million in teacher training and educator DEI-related grants, calling the move unlawful and “arbitrary and capricious.” Consumer & Health Tech: The FTC is suing telehealth provider Hims & Hers, alleging deceptive practices like improper data sharing and hard-to-cancel subscriptions. Maryland Business & Courts: A Maryland man was ordered to pay nearly $6 million and permanently banned from the securities industry for promoting an alleged NovaTech pyramid scheme that targeted thousands of investors. Local Economy & Cost Pressures: Diesel prices are surging in the D.C. region, squeezing trucking costs and threatening supply chains that Maryland communities rely on. Sports (Maryland): Virginia Tech ended Maryland’s 20-game nonconference win streak, while the Ravens ruled out Zay Flowers with a hamstring injury for Sunday vs. the Saints.

White House Press Access Fight: CNN, MS NOW and Politico reporters say they were denied entry to the White House grounds after President Donald Trump announced a ban on the outlets, escalating his “fake news” crackdown and raising fresh First Amendment questions. Maryland Public Safety: Maryland State Police say an intern, trooper and officer rescued an injured bald eagle on the Eastern Shore and turned it over to a raptor center. Local Crime Update: A suspect in a Dundalk shooting that killed a 62-year-old man has been arrested in Pennsylvania, with extradition to Maryland expected. Baltimore Sports: Trey Mancini officially retired Saturday with a one-day Orioles contract and a ceremony ahead of the home opener vs. the Brewers. Community & Culture: The Club Car, a Station North LGBTQ+ bar, will close in January for renovations and reopen as part of the North Avenue Market. Health & Tech Policy: A Maryland-focused look at facial recognition rules for hiring highlights consent requirements for applicants under state law. Education/Community Dialogue: A PBS docuseries on political division in Bucks County, USA, is pairing screenings with “table conversation” events to help residents talk across differences.

SNAP and Medicaid: Gov. Wes Moore says Maryland will help residents navigate new Trump administration work requirements tied to federal changes, with outreach and streamlined benefits support aimed at keeping people covered. Food pricing law: Maryland’s Protection from Predatory Pricing Act kicks in Oct. 1, banning personalized pricing using consumer data for groceries and raising compliance pressure on companies. Chesapeake Bay fight: Maryland lawmakers and officials are pushing back after Trump revokes Obama-era Chesapeake Bay restoration orders, warning of major impacts. Public safety in Baltimore: Police say a shoplifting call in Lutherville led to a crash and foot pursuit; two adults were arrested and no injuries were reported. Sports security and crowds: Ravens, Orioles, and Arsenal games bring extra security and heightened bag checks around Baltimore’s stadium area. Courts and crime: A federal bribery trial for D.C. Councilman Trayon White moves toward closing arguments; in Maryland, a Rockville bar shooting suspect was ordered held without bond. Local business spotlight: Jacqui Cummings’ Black Wall Street Expo returns Sept. 26 on West 25th Street, highlighting Black-owned businesses and community growth.

Energy Costs Clash: Maryland electricity bills are up 50.9% over five years, now about 24% above the national average, as Gov. Wes Moore blames utility profiteering and data-center demand while critics argue state decarbonization rules are pushing Maryland to import 43% of its power—raising voltage-collapse and possible rolling-blackout fears by summer 2027. Chesapeake Bay Fight: President Trump revoked a 2009 executive order coordinating Chesapeake Bay restoration, shifting federal focus to projects with measurable pollution reductions and pushing back on “rain taxes,” while Maryland lawmakers warn of fallout for local cleanup efforts. Public Safety & Justice: A Montgomery County police chief abruptly retired amid an inspector general probe tied to a Las Vegas trip; separately, a Gaithersburg man was sentenced to 14 years for fentanyl sales linked to a teen’s death, and a Prince George’s case from 1993 involving a missing 10-year-old boy has new charges. Health Watch: CDC measles totals keep climbing (3,471 cases as of Sept. 17), and a CDC advisory flags a 17% rise in rabies exposure calls. Business & Jobs: Maryland added about 2,000 jobs across July and August, and a Maryland-based contractor expanded woman-owned credentials nationally.

Energy Costs in the Spotlight: Maryland electricity bills are up 50.9% over five years, now about 24% above the national average, as Gov. Wes Moore blames utility profiteering and data-center demand while critics argue state decarbonization rules are squeezing reliable power and pushing Maryland to import 43% of electricity. Public Safety & Community Response: Baltimore anti-gun groups rallied after a shooting injured seven people, including a 3-year-old boy, with police still searching for the suspect. Local Business Relief: Moore is seeking an SBA disaster declaration for Glen Burnie’s Empire Towers structural emergency so affected small businesses can access low-interest loans. Howard County Quality of Life: County leaders released findings from a comprehensive “Quality of Life” survey, covering affordability, housing, public safety, education, and transportation. State Leadership Milestone: Cecil County appointed Caroll H. Spriggs II as Maryland’s first Black state fire marshal. Chesapeake Bay Bridge Debate: Farmers and conservation groups are pushing for a land preservation fund tied to the Bay Bridge replacement plan, warning it could accelerate development.

Energy Costs & Grid Reliability: Maryland electricity bills are up 50.9% over five years, now about 24% above the national average, as Gov. Wes Moore blames utility “double dipping” and data center demand while critics argue state decarbonization rules are shrinking reliable local power and forcing imports—raising fears of voltage collapse or rolling blackouts by summer 2027. Local Public Safety: Bladensburg is rolling out automated stop-sign enforcement at high-violation intersections, starting with a 15-day warning phase. Courts & Privacy: A judge has barred laptops and cellphones (and other portable electronics) from Maryland’s two federal courthouses in Baltimore and Greenbelt, with limited exceptions. Health Alert: Maryland health officials warn of possible measles exposure tied to three Ocean City businesses, urging monitoring for symptoms. Consumer Finance: Maryland is among states affected by a multistate settlement with subprime auto lender Credit Acceptance, totaling $694 million in cash and debt relief. Education & Families: Cecil County’s Judy Centers expand to nine sites offering early learning and family support. Sports: The Ravens face new receiving-room pressure after Ja’Kobi Lane goes on injured reserve, while Derrick Henry keeps climbing the rushing-record conversation.

Energy Costs in the Spotlight: Maryland electricity bills jumped 50.9% over five years, now about 24% above the national average, as Gov. Wes Moore blames utility profiteering and data center demand while critics argue state decarbonization rules are squeezing reliable power and pushing Maryland to import 43% of electricity—raising fears of voltage problems and possible rolling blackouts by summer 2027. Federal Policy Shift on the Chesapeake Bay: Trump signed an executive order ending a 2009 Chesapeake Bay mandate that helped drive “rain tax” stormwater fees, replacing it with support for projects tied to runoff reduction. National Security in Space: The U.S. publicly acknowledged on-orbit space control weapons, with the Joint Chiefs urging troops to prepare for conflict “from the seabed to cislunar space,” signaling a new era of contested space warfare. Congress and Sanctions: Congress passed a sweeping Russia and Iran sanctions bill, sending it to Trump, with major tariff authority aimed at Russia’s energy and its “shadow fleet.” Local Public Safety: Baltimore saw a multi-victim shooting on East Fayette Street, while Annapolis began reviewing new parking rules after complaints about confusion and rising costs. Business and Courts: Maryland’s comptroller faced an audit finding of missed pursuit on a $600 million matter, and a major Amazon advertising lawsuit moved forward as states and the FTC allege overcharging. Sports: The Orioles swept the Mets with a 7-1 win powered by homers from Alonso, Jackson, and Encarnacion-Strand.

Drought Watch: Voluntary water restrictions are still in effect across Carroll, Baltimore, Baltimore City, Howard and Harford counties as the region stays in a Drought Warning Stage, with reservoirs like Liberty Reservoir strained and residents urged to cut non-essential use. Energy Costs & Reliability: A new scorecard says Maryland electricity bills rose 50.9% over five years and now sit 24% above the national average; the fight over blame is heating up as officials cite utility “double dipping” and data-center demand, while critics warn state decarbonization rules could force imports and raise blackout risk by summer 2027. Immigration & Schools: Montgomery County Public Schools reinstated 54 TPS-impacted employees for now, but warned it may be temporary as federal guidance keeps shifting. Public Health: FDA classified an ongoing hand soap recall as Class II after possible bacterial contamination; products were distributed in Maryland and 14 other states. Business & Jobs: PepsiCo is ending manufacturing and warehouse operations at a Maryland bottling plant, triggering 143 layoffs. Local Economy: Morgan State University got Moody’s affirmation of its A1 credit rating with a stable outlook.

Energy Costs in the Spotlight: Maryland electricity bills are up 50.9% over five years, now about 24% above the national average, as Gov. Wes Moore blames utility profiteering and data-center demand while critics argue state decarbonization rules are squeezing reliable power and forcing heavy imports—raising fears of voltage problems and possible rolling blackouts by summer 2027. Budget Pressure: State agencies are being asked to plan for up to 10% cuts next year amid a projected $3.1 billion shortfall, with lawmakers also weighing tax and fee changes and limits on local authority. Tax Fight in Court: Maryland is appealing a tax court ruling that struck down the state’s digital ad tax, after Apple, Google and Peacock won separate wins saying the law violates federal internet tax rules. Baltimore Development: County officials are moving ahead with a plan to redevelop Lutherville Station as a transit-oriented development, aiming to unlock state funding for a long-delayed mixed-use project. Public Safety: A former Baltimore Safe Streets employee was sentenced to five years for illegal gun possession. Business Closures: Another Outback Steakhouse in Baltimore is set to close Oct. 11 as the chain continues shrinking its footprint.

Energy Costs Clash: Maryland electricity bills are up 50.9% over five years, now about 24% above the national average, as Gov. Wes Moore blames utility profiteering and data-center demand while critics argue state decarbonization rules are squeezing reliable power and raising blackout risk. Federal Climate Rollback: The EPA moved to repeal greenhouse-gas limits for coal and natural-gas power plants, arguing it will cut compliance costs—while Democrats and environmental groups warn of worse pollution and climate impacts. Voting Access: The U.S. Supreme Court blocked USPS changes that would have tightened mail-in ballot rules, with Maryland AG Anthony Brown calling it a win for state election control. Tech & Taxes: Maryland is appealing a ruling that struck down its digital ad tax, while NetChoice challenges similar Illinois “targeted ads” and social-media taxes. Public Health & Safety: FDA classified a hand-soap recall as Class II for possible bacterial contamination, and a fluoride shortage is affecting drinking water for millions nationwide. Local Watch: Chesapeake Bay underwater grass beds expanded for a fifth straight year, and Camp Nabi marked 31 years helping grieving kids.

Energy Affordability Fight: Maryland electricity bills jumped 50.9% over five years, now about 24% above the national average, as Gov. Wes Moore blames utility “double dipping” and data-center demand while critics argue state decarbonization rules are shrinking reliable in-state power and forcing imports—raising fears of voltage problems and possible blackouts by summer 2027. Local Revenue Pressure: A state task force is weighing whether counties and mayors should get more power to raise taxes and fees without state approval, with Baltimore and Montgomery pushing for new tools while business groups warn higher costs could slow growth. AI Data Center Backlash: About 100 protesters rallied outside Philadelphia City Hall demanding a moratorium on new AI data centers, adding to a nationwide wave of delays and blocks. Public Safety in Baltimore: A “serial burglar” pleaded guilty to hotel-room break-ins in Baltimore, stealing items from multiple guests at the Marriott on South Eutaw Street. Healthcare Spotlight: Children’s National in D.C. again made the U.S. News Honor Roll for the 10th straight year, ranking highest in the DMV. Sports, Maryland Style: The Orioles opened a series with a 2-1 win over the Mets, and Pete Alonso returned to Citi Field to loud cheers.

Energy Costs in the Spotlight: Maryland electricity bills are up 50.9% over five years, now about 24% above the national average, as Gov. Wes Moore blames utility profiteering and data center demand while critics argue state decarbonization rules are forcing Maryland to import 43% of its power—raising fears of voltage collapse or rolling blackouts by summer 2027. Ravens Start Strong: Jesse Minter’s Ravens look like the Ravens again, cruising 41–23 over the Colts with Derrick Henry powering the run game and Lamar Jackson sharp in the opener. Blue Jays vs. Orioles: Toronto kept pace in the AL wild-card race, beating Baltimore 8–1 as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. finally homered at home and Dylan Cease rebounded. FDA Hearing in Maryland: Emyria is set to speak in person at an FDA public hearing today at the White Oak campus on the future therapeutic use of psychedelic drugs, focusing on training, safety, access, and data standards. Baltimore Rugby Moment: Springbok Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu broke down during the anthem in Baltimore, part of a weekend that drew major South African support and capped the rivalry series. Housing Screening Warning: A new report says tenant screening reports are failing landlords, with inaccurate or misleading records contributing to wrongful denials.