Maryland
Maryland’s librarians already take steps to protect young readers | READER COMMENTARY
In the recent article, “Maryland poised to lead fight against book bans at school, community libraries” (March 15), some local Republican public officials are quoted, including Del. Chris Tomlinson, Sen. Jason Gallion, Del. Lauren Arikan and Del. Kathy Szeliga. The common theme emerging from these politically conservative Marylanders is that Maryland public school librarians have nothing substantial to offer regarding the protection of young minds from prurient interests.
In fact, Maryland public school librarians are exceptionally well-trained in how to choose age-appropriate, intellectually enriching reading material for public school library collections. Each local Maryland-based educational system posts clearly defined policies set forth to maintain these public school library collections while protecting the minds of young readers.
Additionally, for those who feel a need, each local public school library also provides a formal policy for re-consideration. Anyone with opposition to an item or items on the shelves of Maryland public school libraries have a system of formal policies that can be brought to bear for mounting a challenge.
— Richard Schoen, Reisterstown
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Maryland
Moore announces $3 million in aid to help small- and minority-owned business in Maryland – WTOP News
Gov. Wes Moore announced the $3 million in financial help, which his office said will help small- and minority-owned businesses create 72 new jobs and retain 28 more.
Some small- and minority-owned businesses in Maryland will be able to get some investment help from the state.
That’s because Gov. Wes Moore announced that the $3 million in financial help, which his office said, will help small- and minority-owned businesses create 72 new jobs and retain 28 more.
It’s part of an investment created by the DECADES Act passed by the General Assembly earlier this year.
The money can be used to help those businesses buy new equipment, purchase real estate and fund working capital.
Moore said in a statement that the state “must ensure that every entrepreneur has a fair shot at success.”
“This investment through the Maryland Small Business Development Financing Authority, bolstered by the DECADE Act of 2026, is a testament to our commitment to creating equitable pathways to work, wages, and wealth for our small and minority-owned businesses,” the governor added.
In the fiscal years between 2021 and 2025, the state’s small business development financing authority helped 2,450 jobs by utilizing $33 million in loans and equity investments, Moore’s office said in a release.
State Commerce Secretary Harry Coker Jr. said “Maryland is focused on creating an equitable, robust, and competitive economy,” which he said starts with supporting small businesses.
“We’re grateful to these small businesses for creating new job opportunities in Maryland and look forward to watching them grow throughout the state,” Coker Jr. said.
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