The Watchdog, 8/1/2016

The Watchdog - August 1, 2016

Comptroller proposes regulations for Online Daily Fantasy Sports in Maryland

Utilizing the authority granted to him by the General Assembly in 2012, Comptroller Franchot announced a series of proposed regulations to govern online daily fantasy sports in Maryland. Over the last several months, the Comptroller's office has met with stakeholders and reviewed existing regulations and laws from across the country to produce a package of proposed regulations that aims to protect consumers, fairness, and compliance with applicable tax laws. With over 200,000 Marylanders playing online daily fantasy sports, the Comptroller firmly believes that responsible regulations are needed to protect the interests and well-being of Marylanders.

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Franchot applauds SHA announcement on Chester River Bridge renovations

Comptroller Franchot applauded the State Highway Administration for their recent decision to keep the Chester River Bridge open as it undergoes maintenance and renovations. Original plans called for a complete shutdown of bridge use, which would've affected economic activities in the surrounding communities. Comptroller Franchot requested the Hogan Administration to produce alternate plans that did not include traffic closure of the bridge, and is grateful to the SHA for their responsiveness and for adopting a new plan that protects the interests of residents and small businesses, while ensuring that proper maintenance is conducted and completed on the bridge.

Comptroller Franchot tours MTA Metro Headquarters in Baltimore

Comptroller Franchot recently visited the Maryland Transit Administration's headquarters in Baltimore and received a tour led by MTA Administrator Paul Comfort. The Comptroller, who sits on the Board of Public Works, was briefed on the MTA's plans to expand ridership on the Metro, bus, light rail, and MARC Systems and ongoing improvements to improve efficiency in the agency. The Comptroller had the opportunity to thank MTA workers for their commitment to customer service and for ensuring that systems are safe and properly maintained.

Comptroller attends 2016 Democratic National Convention

Comptroller Franchot joined fellow Maryland Democrats in Philadelphia for the 2016 Democratic National Convention, where he, along with other elected delegates, voted to officially nominate Secretary Hillary Clinton and Senator Tim Kaine as the Democratic party's nominees for president and vice president. The Comptroller, who was one of the first statewide elected officials to endorse Secretary Clinton's campaign, called the Secretary "a progressive who likes to get things done" and someone who will be a consensus-building leader that has the ability to deliver results.

Franchot visits small businesses in Harford & Cecil Counties

Comptroller Franchot recently traveled to Harford County and Cecil County to meet with small business owners in Bel Air and Chesapeake City. The Comptroller, who has called small businesses "the engines of Maryland's economy," thanked business owners for their contributions to their local economies and for being active members of their communities.

JONES JUNCTION

A car dealership serving the Baltimore Metropolitan Region since 1917.

SAVONA

A family-owned and operated Italian delicatessen and wine shop in Downtown Bel Air.

THE MILL OF BEL AIR

A family-operated business that offers lawn, garden, farm, and pet supplies at an affordable price.

THE INN AT THE CANAL
A restored 19th century Victorian Inn along the banks of the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal.

Comptroller speaks to students about the importance of financial literacy

Comptroller Franchot recently hosted a visit from 6th and 7th graders from Prince George's County Public Schools to discuss the importance of financial literacy. The Comptroller, a longtime advocate for financial education in Maryland, encouraged students to take advantage of educational programs that will prepare them to manage their personal finances wisely in the future. The students are part of the University of Maryland's Extension Program, and their visit to Annapolis also included a tour of the Maryland State House.