Governor Larry Hogan announces additional COVID-19 relief, issues travel advisory

MARYLAND – Maryland Governor Larry Hogan announced a new round of state funding for COVID-19 relief efforts. More than $600 million will be distributed to the hospitality industry, entertainment venues, and small businesses. $100 million will go to state relief efforts, $50 million will go to the hospitality industry, and $30 million will be directed towards restaurants. In addition, entertainment venues will get $15 million and rural, disadvantaged businesses will get $5 million.

Gov. Hogan says that he expects county governments to distribute this funding as soon as possible, and make more funding available if they can. “We will be pressing the county governments to immediately distribute this money to those small businesses that are most in need. Once again, we are calling on the county governments to match the state’s investment,” said Gov. Hogan.

The new funding will also help families struggling to make ends meet, and those working in the healthcare industry. Gov. Hogan says $40 million will help raise pay for developmental disability caregivers. The state’s temporary cash assistance benefits will see a $40 million boost. Gov. Hogan says he and other state leader will be proposing a larger relief package with the start of the next legislative session in January 2021.

On top of the funding, the governor also announced a new public health advisory that limits gatherings from 25 people to ten. Gov. Hogan also says the Maryland Department of Health is advising all Marylanders to stay home for the holidays and limit non-essential travel. If Marylanders do choose to travel across state lines, or if someone from out of state visits Maryland, they are required to obtain a negative COVID-19 test or self-quarantine for ten days. “You are safer at home for the holidays this year. Making difficult sacrifices during these next few weeks will absolutely help to keep your family, loved ones, and fellow Marylanders safe,” said Gov. Hogan.

The governor also announced that starting December 21st, all in-person operations at state facilities are suspended for two weeks. State employees will have to telework, and private businesses are encouraged to telework if they can.

To watch Gov. Hogan’s full address, click here.