The members of Maryland’s congressional delegation are in a last-minute sprint to secure full funding for the Francis Scott Key Bridge replacement before lawmakers leave for the holidays. They are appealing to their fellow representatives and senators, making the case for Maryland and other states that have faced disasters this year, sticking together and trying to stave off a growing wave of pushback from the House Freedom Caucus. The Democratic senators from Maryland are hoping the full funding will be included in a disaster relief aid package that is likely to be attached to the continuing resolution to keep the government funded.
Where funding stands: Maryland has already secured 90 percent of the funding through the National Relief Program, but the last 10 percent of the $1.7 billion to $1.9 billion price tag is no small ask. “Team Maryland remains united in our commitment to securing the federal funding essential for rebuilding the Key Bridge, and we are working tirelessly to see it through,” said Congressman John Sarbanes, who represents Maryland’s 3rd Congressional District.
