News across Greater Baltimore
New/Next Film Festival returns to Baltimore Oct. 1–4 with more than 160 films
The fourth annual festival, presented by Baltimore Public Media, brings world premieres, emerging filmmakers, restorations and more to The Charles Theatre.
Baltimore offers new round of opioid grants to neighborhood groups
This time Baltimore is doubling the amount it’s offering to local nonprofits, by awarding four million dollars in community grants. Each of the grants will be worth between $250,00 and $500,000. The goal of the program is to fund groups that are local to their communities and…
Exelon to return $160M to ratepayers after Maryland loses court battle with utilities
The Maryland Supreme Court ruled in favor of transmission-owning utilities this summer, agreeing that they qualify for a production sales tax exemption. The state is now returning over $250 million to those utilities, and Exelon says it’s sending its portion back to customers.
The U.S. Department of Justice sues Maryland over law enforcement face mask ban
The Trump administration is suing Maryland over its new law that would require ICE agents to remain unmasked when operating in the state. Maryland officials say the lawsuit was anticipated and they stand behind the new rule.
Baltimore’s Curtis Bay incinerator to close after settlement with state
Curtis Bay Energy will shutter its controversial medical waste incineration plant in Baltimore as part of a settlement between the Maryland Department of Environment and the Attorney General. The company will also have to pay $600,000 in civil penalties for its role in pollution…
Data centers debated in Baltimore County Council contest
Two candidates want a ban. A third says the current moratorium is the way to go. They are raising questions about each other’s motivations. A data center moratorium is in place in Baltimore County through 2027.
Harford Executive Cassilly Strongly Opposes Enhanced Spending Via Proposed Charter Amendment
Harford Executive Bob Cassilly today announced his strong opposition to Bill 26-014 because it would lead to higher taxes by expanding the County Council’s power to spend taxpayer money.
Queen Anne’s County Seeks Applicants for Boards and Commissions
Seeking individuals to fill vacancies on several County boards and commissions. The deadline for applications is October 30, 2026. Individuals interested in serving on a board or commission can access the application online at https://onboard.qac.org/.
New bill would require 988 literature at Baltimore liquor stores, tobacco shops
A 2025 survey of Baltimore residents conducted by Behavioral Health System Baltimore found that only 11% could identify 988 when asked to name the phone number for mental health support. The bill also directs public facing employees to hand out cards with 988 information.
Code Enforcement Corner -- Trees and branches
New Maryland laws going into effect on Oct. 1
Thursday marks one of the final implementation dates for bills passed during the Maryland General Assembly 2026 legislative session. A law enforcement face mask ban and the No Kings Act are among the new laws.
Baltimore County Health Department offers HIV, Hepatitis B testing on campus
By Theresa Pratt, Deputy News Editor The Baltimore County Department of Health is offering free on-campus HIV and Hepatitis B testing for Towson students. The walk-in, confidential testing occurs once a month during the fall 2026 semester. The first HIV prevention measure taken…