FAQ: Maryland Economic Risks, Healthcare Changes, and Recent Events

Why is Maryland considered at high risk for recession?

Maryland is among 21 states and Washington, D.C., identified by Moody’s chief economist as either already in or at high risk of recession, following the agency’s recent downgrade of Maryland’s bond rating.

What is happening with Medicare Advantage plans in Maryland?

Major insurance providers are considering ending their Medicare Advantage plans for next year, which could leave tens of thousands of retirees without their current health care plans this fall.

What was recovered from Baltimore’s harbor and why is it significant?

A 30-ton hatch was recovered from the Patapsco River after detaching during an explosion on a coal ship on August 18, allowing the port channel to reopen after the Coast Guard’s successful recovery operation.

What changes are coming for striped bass fishing in Maryland?

East Coast fisheries managers are moving to further tighten already restricted catch limits on Atlantic striped bass in 2026 due to signs that the species’ recovery may be faltering.

What is the nature of the conflict between President Trump and Governor Wes Moore?

President Trump opened the latest act of his feud with Gov. Wes Moore through an early morning social media insult, prompting Moore to reply that ’the president of the United States is losing sleep over me.'

What is the status of the Maryland Lottery contract?

Concerns persist about who will win the major contract to run the Maryland Lottery, with state officials not offering clarity at their monthly meeting on Thursday, and the company disqualified in Maryland was also rejected in D.C.

When will retirees learn about changes to their Medicare Advantage plans?

Tens of thousands of retirees could learn this fall that their current health care plan will no longer be available in Maryland for next year.