Hogan Lobbies For Vaccines, Economic Aid, Hybrid School In Speech

ANNAPOLIS, MD — Marylanders have debated how to recover from the coronavirus pandemic for months. Gov. Larry Hogan offered his vision Wednesday evening during his annual state of the state address. In his speech, Hogan lobbied for more vaccines, economic relief and hybrid schooling.

The governor first focused on the rollout of the coronavirus vaccine. Many residents are upset that they qualify for the shot but can't yet make an appointment.

Some lawmakers wonder why Maryland keeps expanding eligibility when it hasn't satisfied the current demand. Other locals still question the safety of the immunization.

"I want to assure you that we will not rest until vaccines are available to every single Marylander who wants one," Hogan said, adding that the inoculations are safe and effective. "We urge every Marylander to get a vaccine when one becomes available to you."

Hogan also prioritized economic relief. In January, he proposed a $1 billion plan to bring tax cuts and aid to struggling families and businesses. More information about the plan is posted here.

"Our top legislative priority is the RELIEF Act of 2021," Hogan said. "I am once again calling on the legislature to pass this bill and get it to my desk as soon as possible so that I can sign it into law."

The governor's last talking point was the reopening of schools. Last month, he pushed districts to expand hybrid learning by March 1.

Twenty of the state's 24 jurisdictions already offered hybrid classes to select students. The governor asked schools to open that opportunity to even more learners. School boards had mixed responses, but most are advancing their reopening plans.

Teachers unions fought back, however. They pointed to the uneven inoculation rollout that has made it difficult for some educators to get the shot. The unions also called on legislators to overturn Hogan's 2020 veto of a multi-billion dollar school spending package.

"I want to commend all the teachers, administrators, parents, and students who have adapted under difficult and trying circumstances," the governor concluded. "It’s time to get our students back into the classrooms where they belong."

Like what you're reading? Invite a friend to subscribe to free Annapolis newsletters and real-time email alerts.

RELATED:

• Hogan Proposes $1B In Tax Cuts, Aid Days Before Lawmakers Return
• MD Pharmacies Will Give Vaccine; Hogan Touts Network During Visit
• MD Schools Should Reopen, Governor Says
• Schools Shouldn't Reopen Yet, MD Teachers Say After Hogan's Plea
• MD Teachers Rally For School Funding, Urge Veto Override

Have a story idea? Please contact me at jacob.baumgart@patch.com with any pitches, tips or questions. Follow me on Twitter @JacobBaumgart and on Facebook @JacobBaumgartJournalist to stay up-to-date with the latest Anne Arundel County and Prince George's County news.