Energy Costs & Grid Reliability: Maryland electricity bills are up 50.9% over five years, now about 24% above the national average, as Gov. Wes Moore blames utility profiteering and data center demand while critics argue state decarbonization rules are squeezing reliable in-state power and pushing imports—raising concerns about voltage collapse or rolling blackouts by summer 2027. Local Housing & Development: Baltimore County Council is weighing the next step for the long-debated Lutherville Station project, with residents split over a transit-oriented development plan for 325 apartments plus commercial space near light rail. Tax Policy Fight: Maryland officials are asking a circuit court to review a tax court ruling that struck down the state’s digital ad tax, arguing the law should survive federal Internet tax limits. Veterans Home Lending: New data shows Maryland ranked 12th in total value of VA home loans in Q2 2026 at about $1.9B. Business Closures: Outback Steakhouse is closing at least one Maryland location—Canton’s 2400 Boston St. restaurant—after more than 20 years. Workforce & Community: United Way of Central Maryland announced a leadership change. Sports & Local Economy: The NFL’s Week 1 is complete, and Maryland’s Ravens open Week 2 as a heavy home favorite, with the broader sports calendar driving weekend spending.