States, Cities and Counties
News releases, reports, statements and associated documents covering state government, cities and counties.
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What They Are Saying: Maryland Stadium Authority, Md. Gov. Moore and the Baltimore Orioles Agree on Terms to Keep the Team in Baltimore for 30 Years and Revitalize Downtown Baltimore
ANNAPOLIS, Maryland, Sept. 30 -- Gov. Wes Moore, D-Maryland, issued the following news release on Sept. 29, 2023:
Yesterday, the Maryland Stadium Authority, Baltimore Orioles and Governor Wes Moore finalized a memorandum of understanding that will keep the Orioles in Baltimore for at least 30 years, modernize facility operations at the best price for Maryland taxpayers, and boost private sector development to revitalize downtown Baltimore City and create more opportunity for all.
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Here is what business professionals, elected officials, and community leaders are saying about the agreement:
"As
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ANNAPOLIS, Maryland, Sept. 30 -- Gov. Wes Moore, D-Maryland, issued the following news release on Sept. 29, 2023:
Yesterday, the Maryland Stadium Authority, Baltimore Orioles and Governor Wes Moore finalized a memorandum of understanding that will keep the Orioles in Baltimore for at least 30 years, modernize facility operations at the best price for Maryland taxpayers, and boost private sector development to revitalize downtown Baltimore City and create more opportunity for all.
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Here is what business professionals, elected officials, and community leaders are saying about the agreement:
"Asa life-long Orioles fan, it's exciting to learn that Governor Moore, the Maryland Stadium Authority and Baltimore Orioles negotiated a quality agreement that keeps the Orioles in Baltimore City," said U.S. Senator Ben Cardin. "The O's and Camden Yards are core to Baltimore's developing downtown entertainment district and now will continue to bring Marylanders together for decades to come. Keeping the Orioles in Baltimore City is vital to Maryland's growth and future development. This 30-year partnership between the state and Baltimore Orioles is an investment in Maryland and our city. Go O's!"
"The Orioles have become an integral part of Baltimore's DNA over the past seven decades, with fans and the team sticking together through the good times and the bad," said U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen. "This new agreement is welcome news for this city - we're all excited to cheer them on for years to come. Let's go O's!"
"Like the Orioles clinching the AL East, this agreement is a victory to celebrate - it's a win for Maryland, for Baltimore, for the team and its fans," said Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger. "It ensures our beloved Orioles will remain in the country's best ballpark for another three decades, with opportunities for more playoffs and, hopefully, more championships along with new investments and more jobs. I congratulate all of the parties for negotiating in good faith and for prioritizing the city's revitalization."
"For nearly 70 years, the Baltimore Orioles have been central to the city's identity, culture and local economy. As a lifelong Orioles fan who has had the privilege of representing the Baltimore region in Congress, I am pleased that the O's will continue playing in Camden Yards," said Congressman John Sarbanes. "I applaud Governor Moore and the Baltimore Orioles for reaching an agreement that will create good-paying jobs, boost our state economy and continue to bring communities across our region together for decades to come."
"With the passing of legendary, all-star third baseman Brooks Robinson and the clinching of the American League East pennant, Baltimore has a bittersweet moment to savor this fall. The Orioles continuing their championship run in Camden Yards this October and for 30 more years is an exclamation point which all Marylanders can get behind," said Congressman Glenn Ivey. "I support Governor Moore's move to keep one of Charm City's economic anchors deeply rooted in downtown Baltimore. It is good for our state spirit and for our sense of pride. Congratulations to the Orioles and to Governor Wes Moore in reaching this promising agreement."
"The day after the Orioles clinched the AL East title, this is incredibly exciting news - not only for Orioles fans, but also for the thousands of Marylanders who depend on the jobs this team brings to Baltimore. For Maryland, this deal is a win-win," said Congressman David Trone. "I commend Governor Moore, the Maryland Stadium Authority, and the Orioles for their work in reaching this agreement, ensuring the team's continued success, and driving economic opportunities in the city. As a lifelong fan, I join millions across our state in celebrating this news."
"I want to congratulate Governor Moore on a deal that delivers for the community, the fans, and the AL East Champion Orioles," said Anne Arundel County Executive Steuart Pittman. "Let's go O's!"
"I want to congratulate the Governor on recognizing how important investment in downtown Baltimore is to the region and the entire State," said MCB Real Estate Managing Partner P. David Bramble. "I am glad the Orioles have committed to stay in Baltimore for another 30 years. If we are all bullish on Baltimore, we can spur ongoing private investment that will lead to the transformational change we need in our city and region."
"The Orioles have demonstrated the ability to engage its fan base, the transition to engaging the community in community economic development will be seamless," said Union Baptist Church Pastor Emeritus and Beloved Community Services Corporation Founder Alvin C. Hathaway, Sr. "Beloved Community Services Corporation is here to assist. We applaud the Governor Moore administration and the Orioles for consummating this deal!"
"The entire National Aquarium team is thrilled at the news that the Orioles will continue to be our downtown neighbors for the next 30 years," said National Aquarium Chief Executive Officer John Racanelli. "We could not be more excited by the O's amazing season, and we hope to keep lighting our pyramid orange right through the World Series. We applaud the vision of Governor Wes Moore and the State of Maryland's continued investment in Baltimore City."
"What a great win for Baltimore to clinch the number AL East Title and to seal the deal on being our team for another 30 years. It adds even more substance to the slogan of the new and bold leadership of our Governor Wes Moore of leaving no one behind. And he is determined to ensure that Maryland is the leading State in the country and that Baltimore's best days are ahead of us," said Southern Baptist Church Pastor Bishop Donte L. Hickman, Sr. "Kudos to John Angelos for demonstrating that the history, culture and tradition of the Baltimore Orioles will continue to have a transformative impact upon successive generations through employment, economic empowerment, entertainment and excellence. In times like these I'm so proud to be a Baltimorean. Go O's."
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Original text here: https://governor.maryland.gov/news/press/pages/what-they-are-saying--maryland-stadium-authority-governor-moore-and-the-baltimore-orioles-agree-on-terms-to-keep-the-team.aspx
Pa. Senate Republicans: Sen. Farry and State Reps. Unveil Crime Bill Package to Address Rising Crime in Pennsylvania
HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, Sept. 30 -- The Pennsylvania Senate Republicans issued the following news release:
Sen. Frank Farry (R-6) and Reps. K.C. Tomlinson (R-18), Joe Hogan (R-142), Kristin Marcell (R-178) and Shelby Labs (R-143) joined local law enforcement officials yesterday at the Northampton Police Department to unveil legislation that addresses the rising and evolving crime in Pennsylvania, specifically around Philadelphia.
"As society evolves, so do the crimes happening in our communities," Farry said. "We want to ensure that our law enforcement and prosecutors have the right tools to
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HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, Sept. 30 -- The Pennsylvania Senate Republicans issued the following news release:
Sen. Frank Farry (R-6) and Reps. K.C. Tomlinson (R-18), Joe Hogan (R-142), Kristin Marcell (R-178) and Shelby Labs (R-143) joined local law enforcement officials yesterday at the Northampton Police Department to unveil legislation that addresses the rising and evolving crime in Pennsylvania, specifically around Philadelphia.
"As society evolves, so do the crimes happening in our communities," Farry said. "We want to ensure that our law enforcement and prosecutors have the right tools tobe able to properly charge these crimes and ultimately lead to the convictions of criminals who are causing chaos in our community, harming our residents and disrupting their daily lives."
Joining Farry and his colleagues at the press conference at the Northampton Police Department were Dan Friel, chief of police in Warrington Township; Bill McVey, director of Public Safety Bensalem Township Police Department; Fred Harran, Sheriff of Bucks County, a representative from State Troopers Association; and over twenty local law enforcement leaders.
During the press conference, Chief Friel shared that theft of catalytic converters in Warrington Township are up 85% since last year, and firearm offenses up 133% and these crimes are not typically committed by residents from our area. The criminals are coming to our communities and stealing from our residents.
The crime package includes six pieces of legislation. The first bill introduced by both Farry and Tomlinson would impose mandatory jail time for illegal possession of a firearm. For a first offense, the criminal would receive mandatory jail time of under two years. For a second offense a mandatory five-year jail sentence would apply and 15 years for their third offense. Tomlinson introduced a companion bill in the House of Representatives.
Farry's bill to crack down on porch pirating already passed the Senate and would implement specific penalties for theft of mail, which includes a package, bag or letter. The grading of this offense would increase if the person had prior convictions for theft of mail. Tomlinson and Marcell have a similar bill.
Part of the crime package includes legislation introduced by Farry and Hogan to increase penalties for gun store robberies. The bill would heighten the penalty to burglaries where the intent of the actor is to commit a theft of a firearm and additional penalties if any of the stolen firearms are used for additional crime. It would also try juveniles as adults who commit this crime as well as increase penalties for those who conspire to commit this crime.
Recognizing vehicle meet-up rallies have become a recent problem in our communities, Farry, Hogan and Tomlinson introduced legislation that would increase the fine for street racing from $250 up to $2,000 per violation, with the driver's vehicle being seized after second violation. It would also add the offense of drifting, and steep fines for those who organized, financed, or promoted the event.
Farry and Tomlinson also jointly introduced legislation to reduce the theft of catalytic converters. A person who intentionally possesses a detached catalytic converter that is not affiliated with a commercial account without proper justification commits a misdemeanor of the third degree.
The last piece of legislation was introduced by Farry, Labs and Marcell to address the rioting in our communities and would hold the rioters and those involved accountable. Rioters assaulting or throwing projectiles at police, law enforcement and first responders would face felony charges. It would also make it a felony for out of state actors to cause or aid in rioting as well as a felony charge for Pennsylvania residents who knowingly assist, coordinate or recruit out-of-state actors to cause a riot.
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Original text here: https://www.pasenategop.com/news/sen-farry-and-state-reps-unveil-crime-bill-package-to-address-rising-crime-in-pennsylvania/
Oregon State Legislature: House Republicans Are Committed to Hearing All Potential Solutions to Fix Measure 110
SALEM, Oregon, Sept. 30 -- The Oregon House Republicans issued the following news release:
House Republicans remain dedicated to advancing solutions to the crisis created by Measure 110. With the announcement of the Joint Addiction and Community Safety Response Committee, the Legislature will soon begin to create legislation meant to deal with the crisis. The same Democrat leaders and committee chairs who chose not to advance bills in the last legislative session to address Oregon's drug and crime crisis are finally willing to deal with the pleas of desperate Oregonians. Ironically, the Democrats
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SALEM, Oregon, Sept. 30 -- The Oregon House Republicans issued the following news release:
House Republicans remain dedicated to advancing solutions to the crisis created by Measure 110. With the announcement of the Joint Addiction and Community Safety Response Committee, the Legislature will soon begin to create legislation meant to deal with the crisis. The same Democrat leaders and committee chairs who chose not to advance bills in the last legislative session to address Oregon's drug and crime crisis are finally willing to deal with the pleas of desperate Oregonians. Ironically, the Democratschosen to serve on this committee are the same members who refused to hear Republican solutions in their committees as chairs. While Republicans are happy to see movement on the issue, they are concerned it may too little, too late.
"The Democrat majority has allowed the drug crisis to worsen each day by ignoring nearly every opportunity to fix Measure 110 when we had the chance. I am relieved that Democrat leaders have finally recognized the responsibility we have to address a problem exacerbated by their failed policies and prolonged by their inaction. However, the same people who helped create the problem and continue to perpetuate the problem will not solve the problem. House Republicans are committed to hearing all potential solutions to fix Measure 110 and urge Democrats to do the same," said House Republican Leader Jeff Helfrich (R-Hood River).
In 2020, Oregonians approved Ballot Measure 110, bought and sold to voters as an experiment to address drug addiction from a public health approach instead of criminalization. It has had deadly consequences.
Measure 110's shortcomings have fallen most heavily on drug users in every community across Oregon. Since its implementation, overdoses rose 61% compared to 13% nationally. On average, 3 Oregonians die each day from unintentional drug overdose.
Fentanyl, a drug that is 50 times stronger than heroin, has surpassed methamphetamine as the most frequent drug involved in overdose deaths in Oregon. For all ages, fentanyl overdoses surged nearly 600% between 2019 and 2021. And it kills Oregon's teenagers at a rate higher than any other state. The Oregon Health Authority reports that the amount of seized fentanyl in Oregon's high intensity drug trafficking areas (HIDTA) increased from 690 counterfeit pills in 2018 to more than 2 million in 2022.
Recognizing the urgent need to solve Oregon's drug crisis, last session House Republicans proposed several measures fixing or reversing the most ineffective portions of Measure 110. They included:
Let the Voters Decide
HB 2973: Referral to the People. Allows voters to decide whether Measure 110 is still Oregon's chosen path to solve the drug crisis.
Recriminalization
HB 2310: Reestablishes criminal penalties for possession and distribution of hard drugs, including fentanyl, that were stripped by Measure 110, while still supporting funds that go towards expanding access to rehabilitation programs.
Tiered Enforcement
HB 3549: Restores criminal penalties for possession of controlled substance offenses to level prior to enactment of Measure 110 when person has been previously cited for Class E violation for possession of hard drugs.
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Original text here: https://www.oregonlegislature.gov/Pages/pressrelease.aspx
Ind. House Democrats: Rep. Bauer Urges South Bend Residents to Comment on I&M Rate Hike Request
INDIANAPOLIS, Indiana, Sept. 30 -- The Indiana House Democrats issued the following news on Sept. 29, 2023:
On Wednesday, September 27, the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC) confirmed that it will hold a public hearing in South Bend regarding Indiana Michigan Power's pending request to increase consumer rates by 6.8%. This comes several weeks after State Rep. Maureen Bauer (D - South Bend) and State Rep. Ryan Dvorak (D - South Bend) sent letters to the Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor, the agency that represents consumer interests in IURC cases, requesting a public hearing
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INDIANAPOLIS, Indiana, Sept. 30 -- The Indiana House Democrats issued the following news on Sept. 29, 2023:
On Wednesday, September 27, the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC) confirmed that it will hold a public hearing in South Bend regarding Indiana Michigan Power's pending request to increase consumer rates by 6.8%. This comes several weeks after State Rep. Maureen Bauer (D - South Bend) and State Rep. Ryan Dvorak (D - South Bend) sent letters to the Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor, the agency that represents consumer interests in IURC cases, requesting a public hearingand public comment period be held for residents of Northern Indiana in South Bend.
"I thank the IURC for honoring my request for a public hearing to be held in South Bend, to allow members of the community to weigh in on the proposed rate increase," Rep. Bauer said. "Energy bills have increased nearly 50% in the past 10 years. The proposed request is expected to raise monthly rates by an additional $15 per month for residential consumers, placing an extra cost on already stretched family budgets.
"I encourage all who are able, to attend the 6pm public hearing on October 30th at South Bend Century Center Recital Hall, 120 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., to submit in person public comment. For those wishing to submit a comment online, you can email uccinfo@oucc.in.gov or visit http://www.in.gov/oucc/2361.htm. The OUCC is accepting consumer comments through Wednesday, November 8."
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Original text here: https://indianahousedemocrats.org/news-media/rep.-bauer-urges-south-bend-residents-to-comment-on-im-rate-hike-request
ILL. A.G. RAOUL URGES CONGRESS TO INCREASE ACCESS TO BANKING SERVICES FOR STATE-LICENSED CANNABIS BUSINESSES
CHICAGO, Illinois, Sept. 30 -- Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul issued the following news release:
Attorney General Kwame Raoul, as part of a bipartisan coalition of 22 attorneys general, urged congressional leaders to approve the SAFER Banking Act of 2023 to lift banking restrictions that prevent state-licensed cannabis businesses from accessing the full range of regulated banking and financial services.
Despite the growing number of states that have legally authorized, regulated cannabis businesses, cannabis remains classified as an illegal substance under the federal Controlled Substances
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CHICAGO, Illinois, Sept. 30 -- Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul issued the following news release:
Attorney General Kwame Raoul, as part of a bipartisan coalition of 22 attorneys general, urged congressional leaders to approve the SAFER Banking Act of 2023 to lift banking restrictions that prevent state-licensed cannabis businesses from accessing the full range of regulated banking and financial services.
Despite the growing number of states that have legally authorized, regulated cannabis businesses, cannabis remains classified as an illegal substance under the federal Controlled SubstancesAct and certain federal banking statutes. Because cannabis remains classified as an illegal substance, banks providing services to state-licensed cannabis businesses are at risk for criminal and civil liability.
The SAFER Banking Act, which was approved by the Senate Banking Committee Wednesday, would establish a safe harbor for depository institutions providing a financial product or service to such businesses in states that have regulations to ensure accountability in the cannabis industry. In a letter to congressional leaders, Raoul and the attorneys general called for passage of the bipartisan legislation.
"Allowing financial institutions to provide services to legal cannabis companies would enable regulators to more effectively monitor and ensure compliance, and it would reduce the public safety risks associated with high-value, cash-based businesses," Raoul said. "I urge Congress to take action and pass the SAFER Banking Act."
The lack of access to banking services, including financing, creates both barriers to entry into the industry and instability for existing businesses. Cannabis companies that conduct business in cash because of a lack of access to banking services can become targets of crime. In addition, the current banking restrictions hinder state agencies' efforts to collect taxes and conduct oversight.
The attorneys general argue that passage of the SAFER Banking Act, which will enable regulated banks and financial institutions to provide services to state-licensed cannabis businesses, will enable economic growth, bring billions of dollars into the banking sector and facilitate stronger state oversight of tax obligations.
Joining Raoul in sending the letter are the attorneys general of Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, the District of Columbia, Georgia, Hawaii, Maryland, Massachusetts, Maine, Michigan, New Jersey, New Mexico, Nevada, New York, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont and Washington.
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September 26, 2023
To: The Honorable Patty Murray, President Pro Tempore, U.S. Senate, 154 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, DC 20510
The Honorable Chuck Schumer, Senate Majority Leader, U.S. Senate, 322 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, DC 20510
The Honorable Mitch McConnell, Senate Minority Leader, U.S. Senate, 317 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, DC 20510
The Honorable Kevin McCarthy, Speaker of the House, U.S. House of Representatives, H-232, The Capitol, Washington, DC 20515
The Honorable Steve Scalise, House Majority Leader, U.S. House of Representatives, 2049 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, DC 20515
The Honorable Hakeem Jeffries, House Minority Leader, U.S. House of Representatives, 2433 Rayburn House Office, Building Washington, DC 2051
The Honorable Sherrod Brown, Chairman, Senate Banking Committee, Hart Senate Office Building, 503, Washington, DC 20510
The Honorable Tim Scott, Ranking Member, Senate Banking Committee, Hart Senate Office Building, 104, Washington, DC 20510
Re: Support of SAFER Banking Act
Dear Congressional Leaders
We write today to urge you to advance the SAFER Banking Act of 2023 to increase access to regulated banking and financial services for state-licensed cannabis businesses in jurisdictions where such dispensaries are legal. We are a bipartisan group of state attorneys general who, like you, have a strong interest in enabling economic growth and stability while simultaneously protecting the physical and economic wellbeing of constituents working in this industry. We are also committed to the rule of law and the strict enforcement of cannabis laws so as to rid the economy of illegal actors.
Three-quarters of states and several territories have legalized some use of cannabis. Thirty-eight states, three territories and the District of Columbia now permit medical use of cannabis products./1 Twenty-three states, two territories and the District of Columbia have enacted measures to regulate cannabis for adult use./2 It is estimated that, as of 2022, the legalized cannabis industry provides over 400,000 full time equivalent jobs across the country./3 These businesses have a sizable economic impact. Industry experts have recently projected that combined U.S. sales of regulated cannabis could reach $33.6 billion by the end of 2023./4 Changes in cannabis policy are evolving rapidly and the industry is growing even faster.
Notwithstanding the large majority of Americans with legal access to marijuana products, cannabis presently remains classified as an illegal substance under the federal Controlled Substances Act and certain federal banking statutes./5 The current federal laws present a risk of criminal and civil liability to banks providing services to state-licensed cannabis dispensaries and related businesses. This risk has significantly inhibited the ability of financial institutions to provide services to regulated cannabis operators and leaves those businesses struggling to find financing. The lack of access to banking services creates both barriers to entry into the industry and instability for existing businesses. Recently, Mastercard announced that it will no longer allow its cardholders to use their bank cards to purchase cannabis, cutting off a key revenue stream and making it harder for customers and businesses alike./6 Further, where the public perceives that regulated businesses can only conduct business in cash, employees and customers are at greater risk of violent crime in pursuit of that cash. Several jurisdictions have seen a spike in robberies of cannabis businesses, some of which have resulted in deaths./7 Steady access to regulated banking is essential to the economic success of these businesses and the physical safety of our constituents.
The current banking restrictions also constrict state agencies' effort to collect taxes and conduct oversight. As of August 2023, twenty states collect tax revenues derived from cannabis./9 This number will continue to rise as Delaware, Minnesota, and Virginia have legalized expanded cannabis markets but have not yet begun taxable sales. Many state cannabis regulators have reported that they have been turned away by the financial institutions that regularly service the agencies for other business and tax needs./10 Certain state regulators were told that banks would not accept funds related to their regulated cannabis programs./11 Some others were denied access to purchasing cards or denied the ability to accept credit card payments from regulated businesses./12 This legislation would ensure that state governments do not forfeit hundreds of millions of dollars in tax revenue that the cannabis industry generates.
To address these challenges, we ask that the Senate advance the SAFER Banking Act or similar legislation that would establish a safe harbor for depository institutions providing a financial product or service to a regulated business states that have regulations to ensure accountability in the cannabis industry. An effective safe harbor would bring billions of dollars into the banking sector, enabling law enforcement, federal, state, and local tax agencies, and cannabis regulators in thirty-eight states and several territories to more effectively monitor and ensure compliance of cannabis businesses and their transactions.
Our banking industry must be given the tools to address the needs of businesses throughout the states and territories. This will enable the evolution of a banking system for legalized cannabis- related businesses that is both responsive and effective in meeting the demands of our economy. We look forward to working with you as Congress moves forward in this process and to lending our voice and expertise as you develop legislation.
Respectfully,
Anthony G. Brown
Attorney General of Maryland
Brian L. Schwalb
Attorney General of Washington, D.C.
Gentner Drummond
Attorney General of Oklahoma
Kris Mayes
Attorney General of Arizona
Rob Bonta
Attorney General of California
Philip J. Weiser
Attorney General of Colorado
William Tong
Attorney General of Connecticut
Christopher M. Carr
Attorney General of Georgia
Anne E. Lopez
Attorney General of Hawaii
Kwame Raoul
Attorney General of Illinois
Andrea Campbell
Attorney General of Massachusetts
Aaron Frey
Attorney General of Maine
Dana Nessel
Attorney General of Michigan
Matthew J. Platkin
Attorney General of New Jersey
Raul Torrez
Attorney General of New Mexico
Aaron D. Ford
Attorney General of Nevada
Letitia A. James
Attorney General of New York
Ellen F. Rosenblum
Attorney General of Oregon
Michelle A. Henry
Attorney General of Pennsylvania
Peter F. Neronha
Attorney General of Rhode Island
Charity R. Clark
Attorney General of Vermont
Bob Ferguson
Attorney General of Washington
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Footnotes:
1/ https://www.ncsl.org/health/state-medical-cannabis-laws.
2/ Id.
3/ https://leafly-cms-production.imgix.net/wp- content/uploads/2022/02/22132544/LeaflyJobsReport2022.pdf.
4/ https://mjbizdaily.com/us-cannabis-sales- estimates/#:~:text=Combined%20U.S.%20medical%20and%20recreational,analysis%20from%2 0the%20MJBiz%20Factbook.
5/ Last fall, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration was directed to perform a review of the status of cannabis scheduling. That work remains ongoing.
6/ https://www.nytimes.com/2023/07/28/business/mastercard-debit-cannabis-transactions.html.
7/ https://www.npr.org/2022/04/20/1093841615/pot-shop-robberies-are-fueling-calls-for-a-u-s- banking-bill; https://www.columbian.com/news/2023/jan/19/cannabis-shop-robberies-spiked-in- clark-county-in-2022/; https://www.oklahoman.com/story/news/2022/08/06/another-arrest-in- fatal-robbery-attempt-of-oklahoma-marijuana-shop/65394286007/; https://www.nytimes.com/2022/03/15/business/cannabis-dispensaries-oakland.html.
8/ https://www.fincen.gov/what-we-do ("The basic concept underlying FinCEN's core activities is 'follow the money.'").
9/ The tax revenue generated by this industry is not insignificant. For example, Montana recently launched its regulated cannabis market with sales beginning in January of 2022. Since that time, Montana has generated over $76 million in cannabis excise taxes. https://mtrevenue.gov/cannabis-sales-reports/.
10/ https://www.cann-ra.org/news-events/cannra-comments-on-the-urgency-of-the-cannabis- banking-situation-in-states; https://www.cann-ra.org/news- events/1t70jdksxo1c16t1zvea1o5zgbaocw.
11/ Id.
12/ Id
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Original text here: https://www.illinoisattorneygeneral.gov/news/story/attorney-general-raoul-urges-congress-to-increase-access-to-banking-services-for-state-licensed-cannabis-businesses
Gov. Ron DeSantis: Toll Relief Program Provides More Than $300 Million in Customer Savings
TALLAHASSEE, Florida, Sept. 30 -- Gov. Ron DeSantis, R-Florida, issued the following news release on Sept. 29, 2023:
Today, Governor Ron DeSantis and the Florida Department of Transportation announced that Floridians have saved more than $300 million through the toll relief program since January 2023. The toll relief program was introduced by Governor DeSantis and enacted by the Florida Legislature. In the month of July, 1.1 million customers saved more than $38 million, and in August, 1.2 million customers saved $39.6 million. The year-long program automatically gives frequent users with at least
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TALLAHASSEE, Florida, Sept. 30 -- Gov. Ron DeSantis, R-Florida, issued the following news release on Sept. 29, 2023:
Today, Governor Ron DeSantis and the Florida Department of Transportation announced that Floridians have saved more than $300 million through the toll relief program since January 2023. The toll relief program was introduced by Governor DeSantis and enacted by the Florida Legislature. In the month of July, 1.1 million customers saved more than $38 million, and in August, 1.2 million customers saved $39.6 million. The year-long program automatically gives frequent users with at least35 monthly toll transactions a 50 percent toll credit to their account.
"As Florida families face the rising tide of Bidenflation, we are helping them save up to $100 a month on tolls," said Governor Ron DeSantis. "Coupled with the record tax relief we enacted, this toll relief helps Florida families cope with the harmful effects of federal government policies."
The legislation, originally proposed by Governor DeSantis in September 2022, was successfully passed during the Legislative Special Session in December. Governor DeSantis signed Senate Bill 6A on December 15, establishing the Toll Relief Program through the Florida Department of Transportation. The Toll Relief Program builds on the successful SunPass Savings Program that concluded in December 2022 and resulted in 384,000 drivers saving over $18 million.
"Thanks to Governor DeSantis' leadership in implementing the Toll Relief Program, families across Florida have saved over $300 million this year," said FDOT Secretary Jared W. Perdue, P.E. "Time is valuable and I'm proud FDOT can offer relief to hard working Floridians who use our roads to quickly get home to their families."
"Delivering a best-in-class customer service experience is at the heart of what we do," said Florida's Turnpike Enterprise Executive Director and CEO Nicola Liquori. "Much like our industry leading tolling innovations, the Toll Relief Program provides a unique benefit to Florida's commuters for choosing to use SunPass."
In addition to the 25% savings SunPass customers already receive, the Toll Relief Program provides drivers with another way to save.
The Toll Relief Program is administered by Florida's Turnpike Enterprise and includes SunPass as well as other Florida-based tolling agency partners throughout the state.
Customers are encouraged to ensure their transponder is properly mounted in the vehicle and their account is in good standing.
SunPass is the prepaid electronic toll collection program operated by Florida's Turnpike Enterprise, the toll agency for the state. For information on the Toll Relief Program and a map of included toll facilities, please visit SunPass.com or call 1-888-TOLL-FLA (1-888-865-5352).
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Original text here: https://www.flgov.com/2023/09/29/toll-relief-program-provides-more-than-300-million-in-customer-savings/
Boston Planning & Development Agency Approves New Affordable Housing in Charlestown, Adopts PLAN: Charlestown
BOSTON, Massachusetts, Sept. 30 -- The Boston Planning and Development Agency issued the following news on Sept. 28, 2023:
The Boston Planning & Development Agency (BPDA) Board of Directors Thursday approved two new development projects representing approximately 1.4 million square feet (SF). The new projects will create 629 residential units, 126, or 20 percent of which, will be designated income-restricted, and will support approximately 1,323 construction jobs and 2,076 permanent jobs. These projects will make Boston a more resilient, affordable, and equitable city.
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Planning & Zoning
PLAN:
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BOSTON, Massachusetts, Sept. 30 -- The Boston Planning and Development Agency issued the following news on Sept. 28, 2023:
The Boston Planning & Development Agency (BPDA) Board of Directors Thursday approved two new development projects representing approximately 1.4 million square feet (SF). The new projects will create 629 residential units, 126, or 20 percent of which, will be designated income-restricted, and will support approximately 1,323 construction jobs and 2,076 permanent jobs. These projects will make Boston a more resilient, affordable, and equitable city.
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Planning & Zoning
PLAN:Charlestown adopted by BPDA Board
The BPDA Board of Directors adopted the PLAN: Charlestown planning initiative at a board meeting Thursday, after four years of work and engagement with the public. The plan includes: an analysis of neighborhood needs and recommendations to improve access to services, new zoning for existing industrial parts of the neighborhood to encourage more housing and retail options, and urban design guidelines to govern future development in the former industrial area and in the Original Peninsula. The implementation of this plan will deliver new zoning, along with the resources, amenities and modifications that residents have been advocating for such as diverse housing options, open space, historic preservation tools, and transportation infrastructure.
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BPDA amends zoning code to make child care an allowed use in all Boston neighborhood districts
The BPDA Board approved an amendment to the zoning code to make child care an allowed use in all Boston neighborhood districts. This amendment will make it easier to create child care facilities to meet the high demand for child care in the City of Boston. The Boston Zoning Code currently designates day care centers and "accessory family day care homes" as conditional or forbidden land uses in many neighborhoods that have been identified as having high child care demand by the Mayor's Office of Early Childhood and the Boston Opportunity Agenda. These restrictions, along with other requirements for day care centers, create barriers to the creation of child care facilities by child care providers and developers. Through coordination with the Mayor's Office of Early Childhood, the BPDA's Zoning Reform Team has edited or removed parts of the Code to allow child care facilities as principal and accessory land uses throughout the city. With these changes, following approval of the amendments by the Boston Zoning Commission, those interested in creating new child care facilities will not be required to go through zoning appeal processes to create child care programs.
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Development Projects
One Mystic Avenue to bring new housing to Charlestown
Live: 503 residential units, 100 income-restricted units, Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing, ground floor retail, restaurant, and community space
Work: 432 construction jobs, 13 permanent jobs, Charlestown small business incubator subsidy
Connect: 40 percent open space, improved pedestrian access to Sullivan Square MBTA station, new bike lanes, 600+ bike parking spaces, 30 minute access to 850,000+ jobs
Sustain: Will be one of the largest Zero Net Carbon buildings in Boston, Passive House design, all electric building, LEED Gold, EV vehicle car sharing system for residents
In line with the PLAN: Charlestown planning initiative, this development will help to convert a formerly industrial area of Charlestown into much needed housing and retail, and aid in the revitalization of the Sullivan Square District. Within this 22-story development will be 503 residential units, 100 of which will be income-restricted. In addition, there will be a dedicated wing of this building for housing formerly homeless veterans. This will be a transit-oriented development, as it will improve access to the Sullivan Square MBTA station, provide an electric vehicle sharing service to residents, and create new pedestrian and bike infrastructure in the vicinity of the project. In addition, this project will include hundreds of new bike parking spaces, as well as a new Bluebikes station onsite. As outlined in PLAN: Charlestown, the project will also contribute annually to the operations of a privately funded, publicly accessible shuttle service for people in Charlestown. In support of small business and jobs training, this development will also fund an apprenticeship program for the professional development of union workers, and provide subsidized rent of the retail space to local Charlestown businesses. The project will also create new publicly accessible open space including a new dog park. In support of the city's resilience goals, this will be potentially the largest Zero Net Carbon residential building in the City of Boston. This project adds significant square footage to the growing roster of Zero Net Carbon buildings that have been approved, are in construction, or are completed in Boston.
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Project at 40 Roland Street to build, housing, life science, and retail space in Charlestown
Live: 126 residential units, 26 income-restricted units, $6.6 million in linkage payments towards affordable housing
Work: Approximately 891 construction jobs, approximately 2,063 permanent jobs, $1.2 million in linkage payments towards jobs training, retail space
Connect: Close proximity to public transportation, new Bluebikes station, $215,000 contribution to bikeshare program, $1.4 million in transportation infrastructure improvements
Sustain: LEED Gold, all-electric residential buildings, Zero Net Carbon ready
The 40 Roland Street development will consist of three new buildings on more than four acres of land including office/lab space, residential space, and retail space. The parcels are known as 145 Cambridge Street, 128 Cambridge Street, 89 Cambridge Street, and 10-40 Roland Street. The building at 145 Cambridge Street will include 52 residential units, 11 of which will be income-restricted, retail space on the ground floor, and 65 bike parking spaces. The building at 128 Cambridge Street will contain 74 residential units, 15 of which will be income-restricted, ground floor retail space, and 93 bike parking spaces. The 89 Cambridge Street site will be an entirely publicly accessible recreation space that will feature both active and passive spaces which will be programmed in coordination with the BPDA and Charlestown community groups. Lastly, the building at 10-40 Roland Street will be a nine-story office/lab building with ground floor retail space and 289 bike parking spaces. A maker space on the ground floor will also be available to the public for activities such as 3D printing, laser cutting, woodworking, coding, robotics and more. There will be free weekly public access hours to this space. This project is in line with the recommendations of PLAN: Charlestown. Through the plan, the Sullivan Square and Rutherford Avenue area of Charlestown is envisioned as an opportunity for higher-density growth, transit-oriented housing, improved active transportation connections, and new open space. As outlined in PLAN: Charlestown, the project will also contribute annually to the operations of a privately funded, publicly accessible shuttle service for people in Charlestown. During the course of this project's review, planning staff ensured that it complied with the maximum height and density recommendations of the plan. This project will also improve the public realm with widened sidewalks, new publicly accessible open space, and new street trees. In addition, this development will advance the Mystic to Charles Greenway, which will create a multi-modal path for community use. In support of the bikeshare system, the project will contribute $215,964 to the Boston Transportation Department, and also provide space for a Bluebikes station on site. As part of the community benefits for this project, it will contribute more than $8 million in linkage payments towards affordable housing and jobs training. As this building is Zero Net Carbon ready, it will add significant square footage to the growing roster of Zero Net Carbon buildings that have been approved, are in construction, or are completed in Boston.
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Original text here: https://www.bostonplans.org/news-calendar/news-updates/2023/09/28/bpda-approves-new-affordable-housing-in-charlestow
