Feature

For many small businesses, the SBA’s 8(a) program is both a blessing and a curse. Launched in 1974 to help disadvantaged entrepreneurs have a shot at lucrative government contracts, the Small Business Administration initiative is only truly successful when a company outgrows it.

When Catapult Technology graduates from the 8(a) program this month, it will be well-positioned for “full and open” competition

Read more: Catapult Technology outgrows small business label

House budget chiefs reacted skeptically to Republican proposals to cut $800 million from next year’s budget at a work session Wednesday, asking GOP leaders for more specifics about how they would lay off 1,500 state and university workers.

Read more: Budget leaders skeptical about GOP spending cuts

Delegates killed a measure Thursday that would have forced the state employee pension system to invest in “green” or life science ventures.

But they put off action – probably until next year – on measures that would begin to make up Maryland’s $17 billion unfunded liability for future pensions.

Read more: Lawmakers reject 'green' investment for state pensions, put off dealing with liability

Lawmakers are seriously considering a $30 million reduction to Baltimore City’s share of the state aid that local jurisdictions share for road maintenance.

But city legislators are prepared to fight the staff proposal to redistribute that money to the state’s 23 other jurisdictions.

Read more: Baltimore may face more cuts to highway funding