Maryland Gov. Wes Moore on Friday authorized $60 million in state funds to stand up a variety of programs to help workers and businesses impacted by the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge.
The proposed funding allocation includes $27.5 million to assist displaced workers and prevent layoffs and another $32.5 million to support businesses and communities affected by the collapse and subsequent closure of the Port of Baltimore.
The money would support temporary relief programs authorized under Senate Bill 1188 also known as the PORT Act, which was introduced in the Maryland General Assembly last week. The bill aims to support port workers not covered by unemployment insurance, ensure businesses can retain and pay workers and incentivize companies to return to the port once it reopens.
The bill passed the Senate on Thursday and was expected to pass the House of Delegates by the end of the week. As emergency legislation, it will take effect as soon as Moore signs it. The funding allocation is contingent on the bill becoming law. The Department of Commerce and Department of Labor can start building the programs immediately, but they cannot be formalized until the PORT Act is officially enacted.
