ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) - Gov. Larry Hogan signed measures to block tax increases and help the environment Tuesday.
At his last bill-signing ceremony of the term, the Republican governor signed 229 bills into law, with the two leading Democrats of the General Assembly: House Speaker Michael Busch and Senate President Thomas V. Mike Miller.
“This morning we will be signing important initiatives to again cut taxes for hardworking Maryland families, small businesses and retirees, including our veterans,” Hogan said.
Here’s a look at some of the legislation Hogan signed into law:
TAXES
Hogan highlighted legislation to block nearly $3 billion in new tax increases on Marylanders over the next five years due to the federal tax overhaul by adjusting state law on personal income tax exemptions.
HOMETOWN HEROS
A measure expands the state’s Hometown Heroes Act to include retired correctional officers. A separate measure gives a modest tax break to retired military veterans.
MEDICAID DENTAL
A pilot program will cover some adults insured under Maryland’s Medicaid program for routine dental care.
MEDICAL MARIJUANA
To improve diversity in the state’s developing medical marijuana industry, the number of grower licenses will be increases from 15 to as many as 22. Licenses to process marijuana will increase from 15 to 28.
POST-CONVICTION RELIEF
Hogan signed a bill to expand eligibility for people who have pleaded guilty in court to obtain post-conviction DNA testing or otherwise prove their innocence in court.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
The law will expand the More Jobs for Marylanders Act approved last year to include Garrett, Caroline, Kent and Wicomico counties. The program incentivizes manufacturing companies to create jobs in areas of the state with higher unemployment by providing a tax credit for each new job created.
CYBERSECURITY
Another bill signed into law is designed to encourage investment in Maryland’s cybersecurity industry.
SEPTICS
Hogan signed a measure to create incentives to maintain septic systems and agricultural best practices to reduce runoff into the Chesapeake Bay.
OFFSHORE DRILLLING
A new law was signed to protect Maryland’s shoreline from offshore drilling off of Maryland’s coast.
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