FAQ: Western Maryland's FEMA Aid Denial, Juvenile Services Assaults, and Housing Market Concerns
Summary
The article covers the denial of FEMA aid to Western Maryland after severe flooding, a significant rise in youth assaults against staff at the Department of Juvenile Services, and mixed reactions to a federal proposal to restrict low-income housing assistance.
Why was FEMA aid denied to Western Maryland?
FEMA denied federal emergency aid to areas of Western Maryland hit by May flooding, a decision criticized as petty, partisan, and punishing by Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, though the exact motivations behind the denial are disputed.
What are the estimated damages from the flooding in Westernport?
Westernport town administrator Laura Freeman Legge estimated the town’s damages at $10 million, not including damage to homes and personal property, against an annual budget of about $2 million.
How much did youth assaults against DJS staff increase?
Youth assaults against employees at the Department of Juvenile Services rose 71% between 2021 and 2024, with over 700 incidents reported in the past five years.
What is the federal proposal regarding low-income housing assistance?
The Trump administration proposed restricting federal rental assistance to two years for able-bodied adults, a move that has received mixed reactions regarding its impact on the low-income housing market.
How will electricity costs change in Maryland next summer?
Consumers in Maryland and other mid-Atlantic states could see up to a 5% increase in electricity costs next summer, though BGE customers may experience a decrease due to previously negotiated credits.
Who is affected by the FEMA aid denial?
Residents and local governments in Western Maryland, particularly in Allegany and Garrett counties, are affected by the FEMA aid denial, facing significant challenges in funding repairs and recovery efforts.
What are the next steps for Western Maryland after the FEMA denial?
State, federal, and local officials are discussing the possibility of an appeal and other steps to assist Western Maryland following the FEMA aid denial, amidst bipartisan agreement on the need for action.
What reasons are given for the rise in youth assaults at DJS facilities?
The union representing DJS employees attributes the rise in youth assaults to a lack of adequate resources and understaffed facilities.
What are the potential impacts of the proposed housing assistance cap?
The proposed cap on federal rental assistance could risk low-income individuals losing their housing in a tough market, while some argue it may incentivize landlords to lower rents, benefiting the rental market overall.
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