Amid the federal government shutdown that's hitting pockets and psyches, help is on the horizon for Maryland residents, especially the state's federal workforce. Baltimore Gas and Electric (BGE) is stepping up with a plan to support those federal workers who are caught in the crossfire of political gridlock. According to Fox Baltimore, BGE is offering additional ways for customers to manage their energy costs—like flexible payment arrangements and giving a 30-day break on those pesky late payment fees.
In an impassioned response to the shutdown, Maryland Governor Wes Moore announced several immediate actions to soften the blow for Marylanders. "While Washington sows division, in Maryland, we stand united," Moore said, pointing to state agencies that have been directed to keep federal programs afloat. This was reported by WBALTV. Programs that touch on Medicaid, SNAP, and even Head Start are all part of the contingency strategist's chessboard.
Unemployment insurance is also being beefed up, with the governor assuring federal workers that, although they'll need to repay these funds once the checks start rolling again, they'll have breathing space for now. "We will do everything in our power to deliver relief to those who are struggling," Moore said, as per WBALTV. The state even set up a dedicated website to guide federal workers to the assistance they need.
In addition to enacting state protections against eviction, foreclosure, and utility shutoffs, the Maryland Public Service Commission (PSC) is also declaring that the law puts a stick in the spokes of gas or electric service terminations for certain residential customers during this governmental freeze. As if managing through the red tape wasn't tough enough, customers will have to verify their government employment and strike a payment plan before the lights go off, as per details from an announcement cited by WBALTV.
