Baltimore Mayor Declares Local State of Emergency With Executive Order

Baltimore Mayor Brandon M. Scott has declared a local state of emergency in the response to the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge.

Via social media, Scott stated the following: “Baltimore, I am officially declaring a local state of emergency in response to the collapse of our Key Bridge. Our teams are mobilizing resources and working swiftly to address this crisis and ensure the safety and well-being of our community.” the executive order can be seen below:

WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 14-111 of the Public Safety Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland the Mayor is authorized to declare a local state of emergency;

WHEREAS, the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore collapsed early this morning after being struck by a container ship resulting in active search and rescue efforts, structural damage and other consequences;

WHEREAS, measures must be taken to protect the persons affected by these circumstances and to address the structural and transportation effects, including implementation of the relevant parts of Baltimore City’s emergency operations plan;

NOW THEREFORE, I, Brandon M. Scott, Mayor of the City of Baltimore, by virtue of the authority vested in me, do hereby declare a State of Emergency in Baltimore City, and I do hereby issue the following Executive Order:

BE IT ORDERED that the City’s Emergency Operations Plan be implemented in Baltimore City.

This declaration of a state of emergency shall take effect at 9:00am. March 26, 2024, and remain in effect for thirty days, subject to renewal or cancellation as conditions warrant.