AGP Executive Report

Federal Hill Safety Overhaul: Annapolis-style nightlife rules are tightening in Baltimore’s Federal Hill, with new no-open-container limits, a kids’ curfew (under 17 with an adult by 9 p.m.), and weekend parking restrictions on Charles Street. Flooding, Not Just Promises: Annapolis says its City Dock stormwater upgrades are meant to handle worse flooding, but one downtown business owner says a pump replacement shows the system should’ve been fixed years ago. SNAP-to-Work Push: Maryland launched a mobile-friendly online tool to match SNAP recipients with free job training and employment services, expanding its provider network. Migrant Legal Services Win: A federal judge ordered the Trump administration to pay $65 million to nonprofits that represent unaccompanied migrant children, including groups working in Maryland. Juvenile Justice Reckoning: Maryland’s House of Reformation Commission held its first meeting to examine deaths and unmarked graves at a former Prince George’s juvenile detention site. Energy Grid Update: Regulators approved delayed transmission line upgrades needed to retire the state’s last coal plant, pushing the shutdown timeline out. Politics & Courts: Maryland Republicans sued to block a redistricting ballot question, while a separate lawsuit claims a ballot error cost a candidate a Democratic primary spot.

Redistricting Fight: Maryland Republicans and the Maryland Freedom Caucus sued to block a congressional redistricting constitutional amendment from the November ballot, arguing Democrats missed statutory deadlines and rushed the measure through a special session; the amendment would change how future congressional maps are judged and could reshape the 2028 House race. Eastern Shore Policy Clash: GOP Rep. Andy Harris accused Gov. Wes Moore of pushing the redistricting effort for national political ambitions, while Eastern Shore-focused opinion pieces argue the Shore has been left behind by federal choices and GOP voting patterns. Immigration Fallout on the Shore: Opinion warns that changes in federal immigration enforcement are driving fear among Haitian families on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, hurting church attendance and local hiring in poultry, farms, and seafood. Health & Environment: A study highlights wildfire smoke as a growing prenatal threat as PM2.5 from fires overtakes other sources; separate reporting notes scientists used AI to design new viruses that target bacteria, raising both medical hopes and biosecurity concerns. Local Government: St. Mary’s County begins a school-zone speed camera program with a warning period starting Aug. 21 and full enforcement Sept. 7.

Preakness Stakes Shake-Up: Maryland officials say the Preakness will move to Sunday, May 23, 2027, with the Black-Eyed Susan Stakes shifting to Saturday—an eight-day delay meant to help horses recover and keep the Triple Crown spotlight. Redistricting Court Fight: A conservative watchdog group sued to block Gov. Wes Moore’s redistricting amendment from reaching the November ballot, arguing lawmakers missed a certification deadline. Chesapeake Bay Fishing: The Atlantic menhaden plan advanced, with options that could cut the Bay’s industrial harvest by up to 50% and spread fishing more evenly, now headed for public comment. Maryland Public Safety: The Maryland Judiciary warned of text scams tied to District Court traffic-violation “show cause” hearings—urging people not to click links or share info. Education & Tech: Bowie State University announced a new B.S. in Artificial Intelligence launching this fall to train students for AI roles across healthcare, cybersecurity, and more. Sports (Local Angle): Stefon Diggs is set to sign with the Washington Commanders, bringing a Maryland native back to the DMV.

Redistricting in Annapolis: Gov. Wes Moore signed Maryland’s redistricting constitutional amendment, sending it to voters this November and setting up a high-stakes fight over the congressional map, including the GOP-held Andy Harris district. Gun-law showdown: The DOJ sued Montgomery County over a firearms ordinance that bans carrying in many public places and creates 100-yard “exclusion zones,” arguing it violates the Second Amendment. Healthcare leadership: Moore nominated Kevin Sexton to chair the Maryland Health Services Cost Review Commission, a key regulator of hospital rates and cost-control models. Preakness power move: Maryland’s ownership deal is reshaping the Triple Crown schedule, with Preakness shifting to a Sunday slot starting in 2027 and new national broadcast plans. Labor rights in Baltimore: Maryland ordered a janitorial contractor tied to Alsobrooks’ office to pay workers for denied paid time off, including penalties for misclassifying employees. Community & culture: BTS fans in Baltimore raised thousands for Beat the Streets Baltimore, boosting youth wrestling and after-school support. Local public safety: A Bel Air deacon was charged with sexual solicitation of a minor, and the archdiocese says he’s been removed from ministry pending investigation.

Redistricting on the ballot: Maryland lawmakers passed a constitutional amendment clarifying how congressional districts are drawn, sending it to voters this November and setting up a fresh legal fight over whether it’s designed to protect Democrats’ map. Preakness reshuffle: The Maryland Jockey Club and Gov. Wes Moore announced major changes to the Preakness schedule, moving it to a Sunday in 2027 and adjusting the weekend lineup. Baltimore justice: The city will pay $11 million to Anthony Hall, who spent 25 years in prison for a murder he says he didn’t commit, after witnesses recanted and the mayor apologized. Local infrastructure strain: Dundalk residents and businesses are dealing with another water main break—at least the third this summer—disrupting daily life and forcing closures. School policy: Kent County’s school board approved a cell phone policy under Maryland’s phone-free schools law, with the rules set to take effect in the fall of 2027. Business/innovation: MEIA announced a $100,000 pre-seed investment in Baltimore-based Canopy Minerals to support critical-mineral exploration tech. Sports (Maryland ties): Orioles players reacted with shock to Adley Rutschman’s trade to Boston, while Stefon Diggs is reportedly signing with the Commanders.

Tariffs and costs: Virginia Attorney General Jay Jones joined a 25-state lawsuit to block Trump’s latest illegal tariffs, arguing they’ll raise prices for Americans already squeezed. Gun rights in court: The Justice Department sued Montgomery County over Bill 23-26, claiming it effectively blocks licensed carry holders by creating broad “exclusion zones” even with permits. Baltimore environment: A judge rejected Baltimore’s public nuisance case against Coke, Pepsi and Frito-Lay over single-use plastic bottles, dealing a blow to the city’s push to recover cleanup costs. Preakness shake-up: Maryland’s Preakness Stakes is moving to a Sunday in May starting next year, with the Black-Eyed Susan shifting to Saturday, as officials try to keep the race drawing top horses and attention. Immigration enforcement limits: Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey signed the PROTECT Act to restrict local cooperation with ICE and bar certain warrantless arrests in sensitive places. Local business and community: BTS fans donated over $13,000 to Beat the Streets Baltimore, helping keep the nonprofit running for months. Weather watch: A flood watch and storms are possible in the D.C. region, with heat index values near 100 degrees.

Redistricting in Maryland: Maryland lawmakers approved a constitutional amendment putting congressional map changes on the November ballot, with Gov. Wes Moore saying it’s needed to counter mid-decade Republican “redlining.” Court fights over tariffs: Maryland joined a 25-state lawsuit challenging Trump’s latest tariffs as illegal and a pretext to raise costs. Data centers, local pushback: Amazon is backing away from a Calvert Cliffs nuclear-site data center plan after Calvert County voters ousted commissioners who supported the pause reversal. Local governance, housing/industry: Farmville approved a 12-month moratorium on data center development while staff study land use, infrastructure, and environmental impacts. Business and delivery: Amazon Business is rolling out dedicated branded delivery trucks in 13 states, including Maryland, aimed at loading-dock deliveries. Sports (Baltimore): The Orioles opened the post-Adley Rutschman era with a 3-1 win over the Angels, starting Cade Povich and debuting new catcher Carlos Narváez.

Sports & Local Economy: Ravens WR Zay Flowers locked in a four-year, $140M extension with $108M guaranteed, keeping Baltimore’s top receiving core intact. Gun Law Fight in Montgomery County: The U.S. Justice Department sued Montgomery County over a new ban on carrying firearms in and around synagogues, arguing the “exclusion zone” is so broad it effectively criminalizes everyday movement. State Politics & Redistricting: Maryland lawmakers moved closer to changing congressional redistricting rules after a marathon special session, while an Eastern Shore secession-style amendment failed in the House. Healthcare & Federal Policy: Wisconsin’s DOJ joined a lawsuit challenging a federal rule that would expand catastrophic health plans in ways opponents say would undermine the Affordable Care Act and raise costs. Hemp Regulation: Maryland AG Griffin joined a coalition urging Congress to preserve 2025 federal hemp reforms and reject efforts to reopen loopholes that allow intoxicating hemp products back into stores. Business & Jobs: Home Depot is set to open its first Southern Maryland store at Lexington Exchange in St. Mary’s County. Community & Safety: A new childcare center opened in Baltimore’s Roland Park area, adding dozens of jobs and early learning slots.

MLB Trade Deadline Fallout (Baltimore): Orioles fans are reacting to the blockbuster that sent All-Star catcher Adley Rutschman to the Red Sox, with Baltimore receiving a haul of prospects and players as it reshapes its roster for the stretch run. MLB Trade Deadline Fallout (Baltimore/Seattle): The Orioles also dealt Taylor Ward to the Mariners, part of a deadline flurry that included other Baltimore moves and left both teams scrambling to adjust. MLB Trade Deadline Fallout (Detroit): Tigers president Scott Harris defended the Tarik Skubal trade to the Dodgers, saying the market for top stars doesn’t work like “wait until the last second,” and he highlighted prospects River Ryan and Brady Smith as key pieces. Tariffs in Court (Maryland): Maryland joined 25 Democratic-led states suing the Trump administration over new sweeping tariffs, arguing the forced-labor rationale is a pretext and asking for a halt and refunds. State Politics (Maryland): Maryland Democrats opened a special session to change how congressional districts are drawn, aiming to avoid another court fight over redistricting rules. Housing & Jobs (Maryland): Maryland lawmakers and agencies are pushing housing financing ideas like a statewide revolving fund, while Dorchester County is preparing for a major fire testing and research campus expected to bring hundreds of jobs. Crime & Safety (Maryland): A federal judge dismissed the Dali owner’s lawsuit tied to the Key Bridge collapse, and separate reporting highlights ongoing concerns about property crime and metal theft.

TANF Data Lawsuit: Washington and a multistate coalition sued the Trump administration over a plan to expand federal access to TANF recipients’ sensitive records, including Social Security numbers, addresses, and immigration status—arguing the law puts eligibility verification on states, not the federal government. Triple Crown Shake-Up: Churchill Downs and NYRA announced a new 2027 Thoroughbred Championship Series that adds a season-long points race for 3-year-olds—while leaving the Preakness out, raising fresh questions for Maryland’s signature event. Maryland Politics & Elections: Southern Maryland candidates are using petition routes to reach the 2026 ballot, bypassing party primaries; meanwhile, Maryland lawmakers are set to consider a special session focused on congressional redistricting rules. Public Safety & Crime: A 17-year-old was charged as an adult after a Wheaton mall shooting injured a 13-year-old, and a Prince Frederick man faces charges tied to a stolen Hyundai and alleged break-ins. Sports: The Orioles traded outfielder Taylor Ward to the Mariners for three pitchers. Health & Business: Supernus and Indivior announced a merger to build a larger CNS drug portfolio headquartered in Rockville. Infrastructure & Water: Drought monitoring continues despite recent rain, and cyberattacks on water systems were reported in Michigan and Minnesota.

Maryland Politics: Maryland lawmakers kick off a special session Monday on a partisan redistricting constitutional amendment that could give Democrats more room to redraw congressional maps ahead of 2028, with Republicans calling it a power grab. Elections & Federal Power: Gov. Wes Moore says he’s “very concerned” Trump could use federal authority to interfere with midterms, pointing to efforts around voting by mail, voter data, and possible federal involvement at polling places. Attorney General Shakeup: Todd Blanche formally rescinded Trump’s “Anti-Weaponization Fund” after confirmation pressure from GOP senators, while also clarifying language tied to IRS audit limits. Maryland Courts & Rights: A Johns Hopkins researcher detained by ICE at BWI was released after her attorney said she had valid work authorization and a pending asylum case. Baltimore Sports: The Phillies beat the Orioles 8-0 in a rain-shortened game at Camden Yards, with another delay ending the contest as a complete game. MLB Deadline Watch: Orioles center fielder Colton Cowser urged faith in the front office as the trade deadline approaches. Business Spotlight: A Delmarva engineering firm was selected for a national TV segment on Bloomberg/CNBC’s “The American Dream.”

Maryland Energy Costs: The Maryland Public Service Commission approved Washington Gas’s smaller-than-requested rate increase, cutting the utility’s ask from $82.5 million to about $38.1 million and estimating roughly a $4.01 monthly bump for average residential customers. Maryland Politics & Governance: Gov. Wes Moore took over as chair of the National Governors Association, leaning on his personal rapport with Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt as leaders push for civility ahead of a high-stakes election season. Maryland Housing & Development: Montgomery County planners cleared preliminary steps for Friendship Commons, a mixed-use redevelopment of the former GEICO site in Friendship Heights, despite tree-loss and commitment concerns from opponents and an ongoing lawsuit. Local Community Focus: Union Bridge is rolling out initiatives under Maryland’s ENOUGH program to tackle childhood poverty, including childcare access, workforce training, and safe housing. Maryland Public Safety & Justice: The Maryland AG is investigating a deadly police shooting at Fort Washington Park after a man was killed by a Maryland-National Capital Park Police officer. Everyday Maryland News: A $1 million Powerball ticket was sold in Prince George’s County at a College Park 7-Eleven, as the jackpot climbed again for Monday’s drawing.

Middle East Tensions: Trump says the U.S. will hold off new strikes on Iran after allies reached “parameters of a deal,” while the Strait of Hormuz reopening is floated as part of the bargain; Kuwait reports drone attacks and the U.S. issues fresh travel warnings for Americans across 10 countries. Maryland Politics & Courts: Maryland Democrats push to change redistricting rules to avoid another court fight, while a separate federal judge tosses DOJ’s bid to force Illinois to hand over voter-roll data. Data Centers in Maryland: Frederick County schedules public open houses on how it regulates data centers, after state court pressure and new steps tied to Maryland’s data center impact review. Local Governance: An ADU parking study slows approvals, and a city council orders removal of parking meters—sparking confusion among downtown businesses. Business & Food: Private deals keep rolling in U.S. snack foods as family-owned companies buy undervalued targets, including a major move involving Utz. Sports (Baltimore): Phillies shut out the Orioles 5-0 as Cristopher Sanchez dominates; Baltimore’s Baysox prospect Joseph Dzierwa keeps rolling with another strong start.

Maryland Politics & Elections: Gov. Wes Moore says he’s “very concerned” President Trump could use federal power to disrupt fall midterms, warning about efforts tied to voting by mail, voter data access, and even federal involvement at polling places. Courts & Justice: A federal judge dismissed most federal charges against Baltimore state Sen. Dalya Attar, ruling key extortion counts don’t fit federal law; she and co-defendants still face some charges. Howard University Fallout: Moore’s administration is offering expedited admissions and an $800 credit for Howard students disenrolled ahead of the fall, urging families to apply quickly to secure Maryland options. Public Safety: Video shows a 13-year-old injured in a Wheaton Mall shooting; police say the suspect was detained by an armed security guard. Local Economy: A Giant Food location in Nottingham will close Aug. 6, with prescriptions and shoppers directed to nearby stores. International: Russia hit Kyiv with missiles and drones, killing at least nine; Trump also threatened more strikes on Iran amid Strait of Hormuz tensions.

Baltimore Crime & Safety: A 17-year-old allegedly opened fire at Westfield Wheaton mall in Montgomery County, with a 13-year-old shot in the leg, captured in harrowing social media video. Federal Justice: The DOJ moved to dismiss charges against Bethesda Olympian David Hearn over damage to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, saying the damage came from a botched contractor installation—not vandals. Maryland Politics & Governance: Maryland lawmakers return to Annapolis for a special session on redistricting, as the state works through constitutional and political fights over voting maps. Public Health & Policy: CMS issued a final Medicare inpatient payment rule for FY 2027, boosting rates for many hospitals and expanding a joint-replacement payment model nationwide (with Maryland carve-outs noted). Local Community Impact: A Baltimore nonprofit says rising rent forced it to move, threatening youth programs unless partners can cover the gap. Sports (Baltimore): The Orioles beat the Phillies 6-4 in the opener, with a big seventh inning and a strong start from Brandon Young. Infrastructure & Resilience: Mount Airy marked a year since Mason Kearns’ deadly flood incident, saying storm-drain repairs and protective trash racks are underway.

Maryland Leadership & Oversight: The Maryland Stadium Authority named Lindsey V. Parker as its next executive director, effective September 2026, as the agency looks to grow the state’s sports economy. City Watchdog Fight: Baltimore law school deans resigned from the board overseeing the city inspector general, raising fresh questions about who controls access and oversight as a lawsuit continues over record access. Cybersecurity & Blame Game: At Camp David, President Trump disputed claims that Iran was behind a Minnesota water-system cyberattack, instead blaming Minnesota officials—an issue that keeps national attention on critical infrastructure. Gaza Deal: Trump said the U.S. has an understanding with Israel on a Hamas disarmament plan, but the sequencing and hurdles remain unclear. Local Justice: A prosecutor from Harford County will handle Maryland Del. Gary Simmons’ assault case via an outside attorney. Transportation & Tech: FedEx expanded physical AI trailer-loading systems at its Hagerstown hub with Dexterity. Public Safety: A Maryland woman was charged in a D.C. hit-and-run that killed a pedestrian in April. Economy & Energy: Maryland finalized a $85M deal to buy rights tied to the Preakness Stakes.