Latest Updates: Francis Scott Key Bridge Collapse

On Tuesday, April 26, 2024, our state and world awoke to the shocking and horrific news that the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, Maryland had collapsed overnight after being struck by a container ship. We lost six Maryland men who were working on the bridge at the time of the collapse. My thoughts are with their families and friends who are mourning - I am praying for your strength. 

I’d also like to thank the first responders from every corner of the state, including Prince George’s County, who wasted no time in joining the search, rescue, and recovery mission. The bravery and selflessness of Maryland’s first responders continue to keep our community safe, and we are forever grateful. 

The Biden-Harris Administration is working closely with Team Maryland to quickly rebuild the bridge and get local businesses moving again. Team Maryland’s federal delegation is united in supporting Maryland’s request for Emergency Relief funds from the Federal Highway Administration and appreciates the fast approval of $60 million in aid. We are committed to providing every possible federal resource to aid in the rebuilding and recovery efforts for the families and the communities feeling the impact of the accident.

We are Maryland Tough and Baltimore Strong - we will get through this together. 

Information for Small Businesses

All Mid-Atlantic small businesses affected by the Key Bridge collapse may now apply for low-interest, long-term Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).  

The declaration covers the entire state of Maryland and applies to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small aquaculture businesses, and private nonprofit organizations.

Applicants in the declared area can now apply for a federal EIDL of up to $2 million to help overcome any temporary loss of revenue stemming from the bridge collapse.  

SBA Opened business recovery centers to support small businesses amid the Francis Scott Key Bridge Collapse. Centers will help small business owners apply for Low-Interest Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) as part of Biden-Harris Administration’s whole-of-government approach to recovery.

Learn more at sba.gov/disaster

Information for Impacted Workers

If you or someone you know has had their work impacted by the Key Bridge collapse, I urge you to call the Maryland Department of Labor Unemployment Insurance Hotline. 

Call (667) 930-5989 Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. or go to their website here to file online.

Other Information 

No Drone Zone: The airspace surrounding the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse is a "No Drone Zone" and Maryland officials are committed to identifying, investigating, disrupting, and prosecuting the careless or criminal use of drones in the area. 

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