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Bill would curb police use of military surplus equipment

Law enforcement agencies in Maryland could be limited from obtaining certain military equipment via a federal surplus program under a bill that passed the state Senate last week.

SB0599, with sponsors Sen. William C. Smith Jr., D-Montgomery, and Sen. Chris West, R-Baltimore, is one legislative piece of the Maryland Police Accountability Act of 2021, which has been a key focus throughout the Maryland General Assembly this session.

Under this bill, law enforcement agencies would be prohibited from purchasing a weaponized aircraft, drone or vehicle; a destructive device; a firearm silencer; or a grenade launcher, according to the bill.

What should be in your emergency kit

Every home should have an emergency kit on hand for when storms and power outages occur. WTOP recommends you print it out this list ahead foul weather and power outages. Supplies to have on hand:
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