A measure to further implement federal health care reform in Maryland passed the House of Delegates on a 93-43 vote Monday with little debate.

Maryland health officials are highlighting $14.3 million they can use to expand community-based, long-term care for seniors and the physically disabled with the help of an increased state alcohol tax, which has been in effect for a little more than year.

Part of the plan involves splitting teacher pension costs with counties. Currently, the state pays the entire cost; the Senate wants to phase the split over four years.

Maryland income taxes would rise and a split of teacher pension costs with local governments would be phased in over four years instead of one.

Maryland lawmakers on Thursday discussed ways to spur job growth by accelerating borrowing in the state's capital budget in upcoming years to invest in infrastructure.

A state commission voted Thursday to seek an attorney general's opinion on whether Maryland law would allow the state to reduce cost-of-living adjustments for retirees.