What we know

ALEXANDRIA, Va. - Following a series of student altercations at the Alexandria City High School King Street Campus on Wednesday, Superintendent Dr. Melanie Kay-Wyatt announced that all high school campuses will transition to asynchronous online instruction for the remainder of the week.

In a letter addressed to families, Dr. Kay-Wyatt described the incidents, which resulted in injuries to students and staff, as "disheartening and concerning." The school was placed on "hold status" for much of the afternoon to ensure safety while authorities investigated.

"Although these incidents involved a small number of students, such events are extremely disruptive to the educational environment and interrupt the focus on learning that our students deserve," Dr. Kay-Wyatt said.

Safety precautions and schedule adjustments

The decision to move to remote instruction on Thursday, Dec. 19, and Friday, Dec. 20, stems from reports of potential additional conflicts among students. Dr. Kay-Wyatt emphasized the move as a precaution to prevent further disruptions and ensure safety.

During this time, students will complete assignments online via Canvas, where attendance will be recorded. The superintendent reassured families that education would continue uninterrupted while prioritizing the well-being of the school community.

Support circles and resources for students and staff

To address the emotional toll of the incidents, the Department of Student Services and Equity will host virtual support circles for students and staff on Thursday and Friday at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Resources for immediate support, such as CrisisText and CrisisLink, were also shared in the letter.

"We recognize that this situation may have caused stress and concern for our students and families," Dr. Kay-Wyatt stated, encouraging those in need to reach out to student support teams or trusted ACPS staff.

Looking ahead: Plans for 2025

Dr. Kay-Wyatt announced plans for additional measures to address disruptive behavior, which will be implemented when staff and students return on Jan. 6, 2025. 

She promised "severe consequences" for future disruptions and said details of the plan would be shared with families before winter break begins on Dec. 20.

The superintendent thanked ACHS staff and families for their swift response and patience, expressing her commitment to restoring a safe and focused educational environment.

"We will continue to keep you informed and will provide updates as this situation evolves," she said.

Admit it, the one day of the year all of us would like a little snow is Christmas Day. Even the worst of us snow Grinches could smile at a few flakes on Christmas Day, right?

Well, let’s set a snow scene for you. Did you know since 2000 we have had a trace of snow only two times and measurable snow just once on Christmas Day? 

So, a snow day on Christmas Day is a rare deed indeed.

Rain or snow on Christmas? 

Unfortunately, it looks like Santa won’t be delivering a snowy Christmas for us again this year. 

In fact, all indications are we could be in for some rain on Christmas Day with temperatures in the 40s. Let’s walk you through the next several days as we lead up to Christmas Day.

What's the forecast leading up to Christmas? 

Thursday, Dec. 19th

Sunny and cool with high temps in the mid-40s.

Snow chances on a scale from 0-10. No precipitation equals no snow chances.

Friday, Dec. 20th

Friday looks a little more interesting as a Clipper system approaches the region. 

At the same time, it looks like an area of low pressure developing off the coast could bring some snow north of our region, including the possibility of a little snow in cities from Wilmington to Boston.

For the DC region: Plenty of clouds with temps in the low 40s. There could be a few showers with a small chance of a few snowflakes mixing in during the evening hours.

Chance for snow scale: 3/10

Saturday/Sunday, Dec 21-22

Happy first day of WINTER! The season arrives at 4:21 A.M. on Saturday.

We have cold temps as an arctic blast brings us some of our coldest temps so far this December. It will be sunny both days with high temps in the 30s and lows in the teens and low 20s.

Chance for snow scale: 1/10 (mostly because it’s cold not because there is a chance of snow)

Monday, Dec 23rd

Sunshine returns but it stays cold. High temps in the low to mid 30s.

Chance for snow scale: 0/10

Christmas Eve, Dec 24th

Clouds return along with somewhat milder temperatures. Highs in the low 40s. It’s possible we see a few showers during the evening.

Chance for snow scale: 3/10

Maybe some of our mountain communities can start with a little snow before a changeover to rain. Rain will not impede Santa from making on-time deliveries.

Christmas Day, Dec 25th

Unfortunately, it looks mostly cloudy with a chance for some rain during the day. Temperatures stay cool but not cold enough for snow! Highs in the mid 40s

Chance for snow scale: 1/10

It will take a Christmas miracle to bring us a white Christmas. Maybe, if we all ask Santa for some snow at the same time, he can work some magic for our region.

Mild temps with highs in the 50s are expected in the days immediately following Christmas.

Here’s to hoping that Santa delivers us some snow in 2025!!!

Happy Holidays from the FOX 5 Weather Team. 

Real Housewives of Potomac star Karen Huger Found Guilty

POTOMAC, Md. - In a series of wild videos showing the aftermath of her March arrest for driving under the influence, Real Housewives of Potomac star Karen Huger verbally lashed out at first responders, name-dropped Andy Cohen, and identified herself as Thomas Jefferson’s concubine.

The shocking body camera video was made public after a jury convicted Huger Wednesday of DUI, negligent driving, failure to control speed to avoid a collision, and failure to notify authorities of an address change. She was acquitted of reckless driving. The 61-year-old faces two years in prison.

The footage showed the chaotic scene in the immediate aftermath of the crash that happened on March 19 after she drove her white Maserati off the road, across the median, and into a tree. The vehicle was badly damaged and sat crumpled and smoldering in a grassy area along the side of the roadway near Oaklyn Drive in Potomac where the crash happened. Huger could be seen swaying on her feet and refusing treatment from medical personnel. She eventually made her way to a waiting ambulance.

Thomas Jefferson’s concubine

Huger repeatedly slurred her speech and refused a breathalyzer. "What is your point?" she asked an officer who was questioning her about the crash before she declined to take a field sobriety test.

READ MORE: 'Real Housewives' star Karen Huger found guilty on DUI, negligent driving charges

Police repeatedly asked Huger if she had been drinking. At one point during the exchange, Karen Huger’s husband, Raymond, who arrived shortly after the crash, attempted to help his wife communicate with officers. "I’m saying that you probably had a couple of beers, and you were coming back, and you said that you got run off the road," he told police as he tried to locate his wife’s license. She was eventually seen being arrested and placed in handcuffs.

"Do you know who I am?"

In a second set of unusual videos that shows Huger being transported, she repeatedly asks for tissues as the officer drives her to the police station. During the drive, she admits that she should have taken a cab instead of getting behind the wheel and asks the officer if he is having fun. In a particularly bizarre exchange, Huger tells the officer that Andy Cohen gave her the moniker, "Grand Dame," and that she is "Thomas Jefferson's concubine." The police dash cam captured Huger muttering expletives and telling the officer, "You know I hate you, right?" before being escorted out of the vehicle. "Do you know who I am?" she asked the officer when she got out. "I don’t," the officer responded.

RHOP star Karen Huger Body Camera Video

Video then shows Huger stumbling from the patrol vehicle after losing her balance and slurring, "I’m lit." "You are lit," the officer replied. "That’s why you’re here."

After she was escorted into the station, Huger’s peculiar behavior continued as the officer tried to explain the booking process and started an automated program to explain the paperwork she was given to read. She repeatedly asked the officer to close the audio and again declared herself to be the third president’s concubine.

Huger’s defense argued that her bizarre behavior was a result of her becoming emotionally distressed following the crash. Prosecutors maintained that Huger’s actions clearly demonstrated signs of intoxication. Her sentencing on January 29 will determine whether she faces jail time or other penalties for the convictions.

ALEXANDRIA, Va. - "I think anytime our schools are closed, and they're not able to do their core mission, which is educating kids, that's a failure," said Alexandria Mayor Justin Wilson on Thursday when he spoke with FOX 5.

Following a series of student altercations at the Alexandria City High School King Street Campus on Wednesday, Superintendent Dr. Melanie Kay-Wyatt announced that all high school campuses will transition to asynchronous online instruction for the remainder of the week.

"That’s a failure in all of our parts. That's a failure in every organization in the city that supports our youth," Wilson continued.

"What went wrong here and why,"

"We have to look inside and figure out what went wrong here and why," he said. "We have students who are resorting to violence to solve their problems instead of constructive ways."

READ MORE: Alexandria City High School moves to virtual learning after clashes on campus

In a letter addressed to families, Dr. Kay-Wyatt described the incidents which resulted in injuries to students and staff as "disheartening and concerning." The school was placed on "hold status" for much of the afternoon to ensure safety while authorities investigated.

"Although these incidents involved a small number of students, such events are extremely disruptive to the educational environment and interrupt the focus on learning that our students deserve," Dr. Kay-Wyatt said.

The decision to move to remote instruction on Thursday, Dec. 19, and Friday, Dec. 20, stems from reports of potential additional conflicts among students. Dr. Kay-Wyatt emphasized the move as a precaution to prevent further disruptions and ensure safety.

Plans for additional measures

Wilson, whose daughter attends Alexandria City High School, said that the city's police department has made sure that the schools have the resources they need to keep the schools safe.

Dr. Kay-Wyatt announced plans for additional measures to address disruptive behavior, which will be implemented when staff and students return on Jan. 6, 2025. 

She promised "severe consequences" for future disruptions and said details of the plan would be shared with families before winter break begins on Dec. 20.

MANASSAS - A man has been arrested and charged after exposing himself in front of a young girl and an adult.

The suspect has been identified as 54-year-old Michael Scott Jenkinson.

Officers responded to the 10000 block of Lomond Dr. in Manassas on December 18 around 4:23 p.m. to investigate an indecent exposure. The victims have been identified as a 13-year-old female girl and a 32-year-old man, who observed a partially unclothed man, later identified as the accused, exposing himself in the above area. 

Jenkinson was located nearby and detained without incident. No physical contact occurred between the victims and the accused. 

He has been charged with two counts of indecent exposure. 

Reality star guilty of DUI in Maryland crash

ROCKVILLE, Md. - Karen Huger, a star on Bravo’s "The Real Housewives of Potomac," was found guilty Wednesday of five out of six charges stemming from a March car crash in Potomac, Maryland, including the lead charge of driving under the influence (DUI).

Huger, 61, could face up to two years in prison.

The jury convicted Huger of DUI, negligent driving, failure to control speed to avoid a collision, and failure to notify authorities of an address change. She was acquitted of reckless driving.

When was Karen Huger's DUI crash? 

The charges arose from a late-night crash on March 19, 2024, in which Huger allegedly drove her Maserati into a pole near Oaklyn Drive. Witness testimony and body camera footage presented during the trial painted a vivid picture of the incident.

An emergency medical technician testified that Huger swayed on her feet, refused treatment, and verbally lashed out at first responders. 

Witness testimony and body camera footage key to conviction

Body camera footage showed Huger slurring her speech and cursing at officers, refusing a breathalyzer, and declining to take a field sobriety test.

New police body cam released showing RHOP star Karen Huger moments after her DUI crash… https://t.co/43D1VzBpZ9 pic.twitter.com/YlkYYvvdqD

— Kenneth Moton (@KennethMoton) December 19, 2024

Defense argues emotional distress

Huger’s defense presented two witnesses, including her cousin, who testified that Huger was emotionally distressed but did not sound impaired when they spoke on the phone shortly before the crash.

Prosecutors argued that Huger’s behavior, captured on body camera footage and corroborated by witnesses, demonstrated clear signs of intoxication.

Huger’s attorneys had previously sought to dismiss the case, claiming the evidence was obtained through an illegal search and seizure, but the motion was denied.

When will Karen Huger be sentenced?

The case has drawn significant attention, with fans and critics of the reality TV star closely watching the proceedings. Huger’s sentencing on Jan. 29 will determine whether she faces jail time or other penalties for the convictions.

Social Security's "full retirement age" is set to increase next year, meaning that those nearing retirement will have to hold off a little longer before they can claim a larger benefit.

The full retirement age (FRA) for Social Security was 65 when the program was created in the 1930s, but reforms made in 1983 gradually increased the FRA from age 65 to 67 in two-month increments over a 22-year period that started for those who turned 62 in 2000.

Next year, the FRA will rise to 66 years and 10 months for people born in 1959. They would start to qualify for their full Social Security benefits starting in November 2025.

Retirees can begin collecting their Social Security benefits before they reach the FRA, with the minimum age to do so being 62. However, retirees who claim early will have their monthly benefit permanently reduced by as much as 30% depending on how early they claim.

WHY SOME AMERICANS WILL RECEIVE AN EXTRA SOCIAL SECURITY CHECK IN NOVEMBER

Americans can also delay claiming Social Security benefits and be rewarded for doing so, as the program offers a bonus of up to 8% for waiting until the age when they're eligible to receive the maximum benefit.

The increase in the FRA coming in 2025 is the next-to-last age change that will occur under the Social Security reform law that was enacted in 1983, although that could change with future reforms.

The final change will apply to workers born in or after 1960 and will require that those workers wait until they turn 67 to achieve the FRA, meaning that a worker born in 1960 would have to wait to claim benefits until they reach their birth month in 2027 to get their full benefits.

SOCIAL SECURITY CRISIS: BENEFICIARIES FACE 21% BENEFIT CUT WITHOUT REFORMS, SAYS CRFB

Social Security recipients are also on track to receive a 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for their benefits next year to account for inflation. The COLA increases benefits to account for rising prices of goods in the economy so that retirees don't see their purchasing power diminished over time.

The 2.5% COLA is the smallest since 2021 and comes as inflation in the U.S. economy has eased in the last two years after it reached the highest level in four decades in 2022, though prices remain elevated and are straining household budgets.

The new COLA will take effect for most Social Security recipients when they receive their January benefit distributions.

SOCIAL SECURITY COST-OF-LIVING ADJUSTMENT WILL BE 2.5% IN 2025, LESS THAN PRIOR YEAR

Social Security benefits are funded largely through payroll tax receipts, although it does rely in part on a trust fund to pay out benefits that aren't covered by incoming tax receipts. 

The falling ratio of workers to retirees caused by the aging of the U.S. population and retirements among members of the Baby Boomer generation have strained the program's finances, which are trending toward insolvency. 

Social Security's primary trust fund, the Old-Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund, is projected to be depleted in 2033, which would cause a 21% across-the-board benefit cut, according to the nonpartisan Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget (CRFB). 

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That would amount to a $16,500 nominal benefit reduction for a typical dual-income couple who retired at the time of the trust fund's depletion, or a $12,400 reduction for a typical single-income couple, per the CRFB.

Get updates to this story on FOXBusiness.com.

WASHINGTON - President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration will be held on January 20, 2025. But why this day, and why does it share the day with Martin Luther King Jr. Day?

Inauguration Day and the 20th Amendment

January 20 is observed as Inauguration Day because of the 20th Amendment. 

"The 20th amendment to the Constitution specifies that the term of each elected President of the United States begins at noon on January 20 of the year following the election," according to the Architect of the Capitol. "Each president must take the oath of office before assuming the duties of the position."

At one time, according to History.com, a four-month gap pushed Inauguration Day to March of the year following the election. This lengthy lame-duck period often caused problems between the outgoing administration and the incoming administration. In 1933, the time was shortened to January of the year after the election, finally allowing the president-elect to address issues sooner.

If January 20 happens to fall on a Sunday, the oath is still taken on Inauguration Day—just privately—before a public inaugural ceremony on January 21.

Are Inauguration Day and MLK Day connected?

Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a federal holiday that celebrates the life and legacy of civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The holiday is observed on the third Monday of January each year, around the time of King's birthday, which is on January 15.

"We commemorate as well the timeless values he taught us through his example—the values of courage, truth, justice, compassion, dignity, humility, and service that so radiantly defined Dr. King’s character and empowered his leadership," according to the U.S. Government Publishing Office. "On this holiday, we commemorate the universal, unconditional love, forgiveness, and nonviolence that empowered his revolutionary spirit."

Occasionally, Martin Luther King Jr. Day falls on Inauguration Day. However, the two dates are not directly related.

ANNAPOLIS, Md. - The new year will bring new laws to the state of Maryland. Starting January 1, 2025, many new laws will go into effect. Here’s a glance at some of the most notable new Maryland laws.

Hearing Aid Coverage, Security Guard Licensing & Maryland Road Worker Protection

Hearing Aid Coverage for Adults: Health insurance companies, HMOs, and nonprofit health service plans will be required to provide coverage for adult hearing aids, up to $1,400 per hearing aid every three years.

Security Guard Licensing: Businesses or individuals employing security services must license their security guards and register with the Maryland State Police Licensing Division. 

Maryland Road Worker Protection Act: Updates to the rules regarding the use of automated speed cameras on highways and in construction zones.

These are just a few of the new laws. Here’s a look at the full list of new laws taking effect in Maryland on January 1, 2025:

Full list of new Maryland laws taking effect on January 1, 2025

HB 513 Chapter 17 The Speaker (By Request – Administration), et al MOTOR VEHICLES – WORK ZONE SPEED CONTROL SYSTEMS – REVISIONS (MARYLAND ROAD WORKER PROTECTION ACT OF 2024) Altering the distribution of revenue from civil fines collected through the use of work zone speed control systems; altering the highways on which a work zone speed control system may be used; clarifying that a system operator does not need to be present when a work zone speed control system is in use; altering the maximum penalty for a civil citation issued as a result of an image from a work zone speed control system; requiring the State Highway Administration to make a certain report; etc. Section 2 only

SB 1007 Chapter 40 Senator Hayes STATE GOVERNMENT – EXECUTIVE APPOINTMENTS Authorizing the Governor to appoint individuals to the State Board of Elections and the Accountability and Implementation Board during the recess of the Senate under certain circumstances; requiring the Governor to submit a certain nomination to the Senate if the term of office will end during the next upcoming recess of the Senate; authorizing the Governor to submit a certain nomination to the Senate more than 40 days after the commencement of the regular legislative session and before Sine Die only if the Senate consents; etc. Section 2 only.

HB 229 Chapter 73 Chair, Economic Matters Committee (By Request – Departmental – Transportation) VEHICLE LAWS – MOTOR VEHICLE INSURANCE COMPANIES – REQUIREMENTS Requiring motor vehicle insurance companies to participate in the Motor Vehicle Administration’s online verification program for vehicle insurance policies for law enforcement and administrative purposes; and requiring motor vehicle insurance companies to provide certain customer information details.

SB 254 Chapter 74 Chair, Judicial Proceedings Committee (By Request – Departmental – Transportation) VEHICLE LAWS – MOTOR VEHICLE INSURANCE COMPANIES – REQUIREMENTS Requiring motor vehicle insurance companies to participate in the Administration’s online verification program for vehicle insurance policies for law enforcement and administrative purposes; and requiring motor vehicle insurance companies to provide certain customer information details.

HB 23 Chapter 115 Chair, Health and Government Operations Committee (By Request – Departmental – Maryland Insurance Administration) MARYLAND HEALTH BENEFIT EXCHANGE – QUALIFIED HEALTH PLANS – DENTAL COVERAGE Repealing a certain provision of law providing that a qualified health plan is not required under certain circumstances to provide essential benefits that duplicate the minimum benefits of qualified dental plans; and repealing the authority of the Maryland Health Benefit Exchange to require children enrolling in a qualified health plan to have essential pediatric dental benefits required by the federal Secretary of Health and Human Services.

SB 228 Chapter 116 Chair, Finance Committee (By Request – Departmental – Maryland Insurance Administration) MARYLAND HEALTH BENEFIT EXCHANGE – QUALIFIED HEALTH PLANS – DENTAL COVERAGE Repealing a certain provision of law providing that a qualified health plan is not required under certain circumstances to provide essential benefits that duplicate the minimum benefits of qualified dental plans; and repealing the authority of the Maryland Health Benefit Exchange to require children enrolling in a qualified health plan to have essential pediatric dental benefits required by the federal Secretary of Health and Human Services.

HB 538 Chapter 122 The Speaker (By Request – Administration), et al LAND USE – AFFORDABLE HOUSING – ZONING DENSITY AND PERMITTING (HOUSING EXPANSION AND AFFORDABILITY ACT OF 2024) Establishing the Historic Property Revitalization Director as a position in the Department of Housing and Community Development; prohibiting a local legislative body from prohibiting the placement of certain manufactured homes or modular dwellings in a zoning district that allows single–family residential uses under certain circumstances; requiring local jurisdictions to allow an increase in density of certain qualified projects in certain districts or zones for certain properties; etc.

SB 271 Chapter 430 Chair, Education, Energy, and the Environment Committee (By Request – Departmental – State Board of Elections) ELECTION LAW – REVISIONS Altering the information that clerks of the circuit court for each county and administrative clerks for each District Court are required to report to the State Administrator of Elections to include the names and addresses, if available, of individuals convicted of a felony in the respective court and sentenced to imprisonment with commitment papers; requiring the State Board of Elections to adopt regulations establishing an appeals process regarding certain requests to use public buildings as early voting centers; etc.

HB 700 Chapter 504 Delegates D. Jones and Fair ELECTION LAW – ELECTION JUDGES – REVISIONS Requiring the State Board to develop and implement a marketing campaign to recruit individuals to serve as election judges; authorizing a local board to supplement the marketing campaign implemented by the State Board; requiring that a county employee who serves as an election judge during hours that the employee is scheduled to work receive certain administrative leave and certain election judge compensation; requiring the State Board to adopt certain regulations related to service as an election judge; etc.

SB 783 Chapter 595 Senator Elfreth, et al PUBLIC UTILITIES – SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS AND PROGRAMS, MARYLAND STRATEGIC ENERGY INVESTMENT FUND, AND PREVAILING WAGE (BRIGHTER TOMORROW ACT) Requiring that certain home improvement contracts for the installation of a solar energy generating system on the roof of a building include the installation of a certain wildlife barrier under certain circumstances; requiring a county or municipality to implement certain software for features supporting the tracking and approval of residential building permits for residential solar energy and energy storage systems and main electric panel upgrades and derates on or before August 1, 2025, except under certain circumstances; etc. Section 4 only

HB 647 Chapter 740 Delegate Guyton PROPERTY AND CASUALTY INSURANCE – PET INSURANCE – REGULATION Establishing requirements and prohibitions for pet insurance policies that are issued to a resident of the State or are sold, solicited, negotiated, or offered in the State, including disclosure requirements and requirements and prohibitions related to wellness programs; and requiring the Maryland Insurance Administration, on or before June 1, 2025, to develop informational material about pet insurance policies that may be disseminated to and posted by veterinary practitioners.

HB 865 Chapter 822 Delegate Martinez, et al MARYLAND MEDICAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM AND HEALTH INSURANCE – COVERAGE FOR PROSTHESES (SO EVERY BODY CAN MOVE ACT) Requiring the Maryland Medical Assistance Program and certain insurers, nonprofit health service plans, and health maintenance organizations to provide certain coverage related to prostheses; establishing that certain insurers, nonprofit health service plans, and health maintenance organizations must comply with certain provider network requirements; etc.

SB 614 Chapter 823 Senator Beidle, et al MARYLAND MEDICAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM AND HEALTH INSURANCE – COVERAGE FOR PROSTHESES (SO EVERY BODY CAN MOVE ACT) Requiring the Maryland Medical Assistance Program and certain insurers, nonprofit health service plans, and health maintenance organizations to provide certain coverage related to prostheses beginning January 1, 2025; establishing that certain insurers, nonprofit health plans, and health maintenance organizations must comply with certain provider network requirements; etc.

HB 932 Chapter 847 Delegate Cullison, et al HEALTH INSURANCE – UTILIZATION REVIEW – REVISIONS Altering and establishing requirements and prohibitions related to health insurance utilization review; altering requirements related to internal grievance procedures and adverse decision procedures; altering certain reporting requirements on health insurance carriers relating to adverse decisions; and establishing requirements on health insurance carriers and health care providers relating to the provision of patient benefit information. Section 1 only.

SB 791 Chapter 848 Senator Klausmeier HEALTH INSURANCE – UTILIZATION REVIEW – REVISIONS Altering and establishing requirements and prohibitions related to health insurance utilization review; altering requirements related to internal grievance procedures and adverse decision procedures; altering certain reporting requirements on health insurance carriers relating to adverse decisions; and establishing requirements on health insurance carriers and health care providers relating to the provision of patient benefit information. Section 1 only

HB 1259 Chapter 868 Delegate Alston, et al HEALTH INSURANCE – BREAST AND LUNG CANCER SCREENING – COVERAGE REQUIREMENTS Including image–guided breast biopsy in the definition of "supplemental breast examination" for the purpose of certain provisions of law requiring insurers, health service plans, and health maintenance organizations to provide coverage for supplemental breast examinations; clarifying that coverage requirements for lung cancer screening apply to follow–up diagnostic imaging; etc.

SB 830 Chapter 871 Senator Klausmeier STATE BOARD OF PHYSICIANS – PERFORMANCE OF X–RAY DUTIES WITHOUT A LICENSE Altering the circumstances under which individuals without a license to practice medicine may perform X–ray duties; authorizing the State Board of Physicians to impose for each violation of the Act a civil penalty of up to $5,000 on the physician’s office and up to $1,000 on the individual who violated the Act; requiring the Board, by October 1, 2029, to report to certain committees of the General Assembly on the number of individuals registered to perform limited X–ray duties and the continuation or replacement of the registration process; etc.

HB 934 Chapter 872 Delegate Hutchinson, et al STATE BOARD OF PHYSICIANS – PERFORMANCE OF X–RAY DUTIES WITHOUT A LICENSE Altering the circumstances under which individuals without a license to practice medicine may perform X–ray duties; authorizing the State Board of Physicians to impose a civil penalty of up to $5,000 for each violation on the physician’s office and $1,000 for each individual violation of the Act; and requiring the Board, by October 1, 2029, to report to certain committees of the General Assembly on the number of individuals registered to perform limited X–ray duties and the continuation or replacement of the registration process.

HB 1155 Chapter 885 Delegate Stewart, et al HOSPITALS – OPIOID OVERDOSE AND OPIOID–RELATED EMERGENCY MEDICAL CONDITIONS – TREATMENT Requiring hospitals to establish and maintain certain protocols and capacity related to the treatment of patients who are being treated for an opioid–related overdose or opioid–related emergency medical condition; requiring hospitals to make a referral for patients who are diagnosed with opioid use disorder or administered or prescribed medication for opioid use disorder to an appropriate provider to voluntarily continue treatment in the community and work with peer support professionals for a certain purpose; etc.

SB 1071 Chapter 886 Senator McKay HOSPITALS – OPIOID OVERDOSE AND OPIOID–RELATED EMERGENCY MEDICAL CONDITIONS – TREATMENT Requiring hospitals to establish and maintain certain protocols and capacity related to the treatment of patients who are being treated for an opioid–related overdose or opioid–related emergency medical condition; requiring hospitals to make a referral for patients who are diagnosed with opioid use disorder or administered or prescribed medication for opioid use disorder to an appropriate provider to voluntarily continue treatment in the community and work with peer support professionals for a certain purpose; etc.

SB 729 Chapter 942 Senator Carter BUSINESS OCCUPATIONS AND PROFESSIONS – SECURITY GUARDS – USE OF FORCE REPORTING, STANDARDS, AND CERTIFICATIONS Prohibiting a use of force report from including information that is prohibited from disclosure by State or federal law; requiring the employer of a security guard providing security guard services on the premises of a health care facility to report certain information to the Secretary of State Police every 7 days; and altering the effective date of certain provisions of law relating to security guards from June 1, 2024, to January 1, 2025.

HB 732 Chapter 947 Baltimore City Delegation BALTIMORE CITY – CONTROL OVER POWERS OF POLICE COMMISSIONER Repealing a prohibition on certain Baltimore City ordinances or acts of certain municipal officials from conflicting, impeding, obstructing, hindering, or interfering with the powers of the Baltimore City Police Commissioner; and making a portion of the Act contingent on the passage and ratification, by a certain date, of a certain Baltimore City Charter amendment. Section 1 only Contingency – Subject to the ratification of an amendment to the Charter of Baltimore City at the 2024 general election

SB 894 Chapter 948 Senator Carter BALTIMORE CITY – CONTROL OVER POWERS OF POLICE COMMISSIONER Repealing a prohibition on certain Baltimore City ordinances or acts of certain municipal officials from conflicting, impeding, obstructing, hindering, or interfering with the powers of the Baltimore City Police Commissioner; and making a portion of the Act contingent on the passage and ratification, by January 1, 2025, of an amendment to the Charter of Baltimore City that provides for the appointment, terms of office, and the powers and duties of the Baltimore City Police Commissioner and Department. Section 1 only Contingency – Subject to the ratification of an amendment to the Charter of Baltimore City at the 2024 general election.

HB 1339 Chapter 951 Delegate Reilly, et al HEALTH INSURANCE – HEARING AIDS FOR ADULTS – COVERAGE Requiring insurers, nonprofit health service plans, and health maintenance organizations that provide certain health insurance benefits under certain insurance policies or contracts to provide certain coverage for certain hearing aids for adults; authorizing a limit on the benefit payable of $1,400 per hearing aid every 36 months; and authorizing an insured or enrollee to choose a certain hearing aid and pay a certain amount for the hearing aid without financial or contractual penalty to the provider of the hearing aid. Section 1 only

SB 778 Chapter 952 Senator Gallion HEALTH INSURANCE – HEARING AIDS FOR ADULTS – COVERAGE Requiring insurers, nonprofit health service plans, and health maintenance organizations that provide certain health insurance benefits under certain insurance policies or contracts to provide certain coverage for certain hearing aids for adults; authorizing a limit on the benefit payable of $1,400 per hearing aid every 36 months; and authorizing an insured or enrollee to choose a certain hearing aid and pay a certain amount for the hearing aid without financial or contractual penalty to the provider of the hearing aid.

2021 Chapters – Effective January 1, 2025

SB 786 Chapter 133 Senator McCray (By Request – Baltimore City Administration) MARYLAND POLICE ACCOUNTABILITY ACT OF 2021 – BALTIMORE CITY – CONTROL OF THE POLICE DEPARTMENT OF BALTIMORE CITY Providing that the Police Department of Baltimore City is an agency and instrumentality of the City of Baltimore, instead of the State, contingent on the passage of an amendment to the Charter of Baltimore City providing for the transfer and its ratification by the voters of Baltimore City; establishing an Advisory Board on the Transfer of Control of the Police Department to study issues related to the transfer; declaring the intent of the General Assembly that the transfer does not affect certain collective bargaining rights; etc. Sections 1 and 2 only Contingency – Subject to the ratification of an amendment to the Charter of Baltimore City at the 2024 general election

HB 643 Chapter 490 Delegate Palakovich Carr PUBLIC HEALTH – COSMETIC PRODUCTS – INGREDIENT PROHIBITION Prohibiting, except under certain circumstances, a person from knowingly manufacturing, selling, delivering, holding, or offering for sale in the State a cosmetic product that contains certain intentionally added ingredients; providing that a person is not in violation of the Act under certain circumstances; declaring that it is the intent of the General Assembly that the Act be construed in a manner consistent with the prohibition on certain intentionally added ingredients in cosmetics enacted by the European Union; etc.

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MONTGOMERY VILLAGE, Md. - Authorities in Montgomery County say they received reports of two bear sightings early Thursday morning.

Montgomery County police say two separate calls for sightings in the Montgomery Village area were received between 5:30 a.m. and 6:45 a.m. 

No other information is available at this time.

Black Bear Fact Sheet from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources:

Black bears are stocky animals with short, thick legs and glossy black or brownish coats. Occasionally, black bears can also be cinnamon or blond in color and can contain patches of white. Black bears are the smallest North American bears, ranging from 5-6 feet long from muzzle to tail. A black bear’s tail is short- averaging 3-5 inches in length. Males and females are generally similar in appearance, but males often are a little larger. In general, sows (females) weigh from 110-250 pounds while boars (males) can weigh from 150 to 450 pounds.

Where can bears be found in Maryland?

Historically, black bears were found throughout much of North America. However, their habitat is now limited to forested areas in 40 states and Canada. In Maryland, Black bears are located primarily in Garrett, Allegany, Washington, and Fredrick counties. Populations are highest in Garrett and Allegany counties, with bear numbers rising in the remaining areas. In the spring, black bears are often sighted in other areas of the state.

Black bears are forest dwellers and can usually be found in mixed deciduous and conifer forests. Black bears prefer areas with thick understories that contain abundant food resources such as acorns, nuts, berries, and seeds.

What is common behavior for bears in Maryland?

Black bears are active throughout the day and sometimes at night. Right before denning, black bears can actively forage for up to 20 hours per day! Generally, black bears are solitary and spend their days foraging for food.

Prior to denning, black bears will consume up to 20,000 calories per day and will increase their mass by 30-35%. Black bears are not true hibernators, but they do slow down their heart rate and breathing while denning. Typically, Maryland black bears den in late November through December, pending on the weather. Black bears will den under large boulders, within simple depressions, in tree cavities, or even under porches and other human dwellings.

For More Information:

• Black Bear Education Trunk
• Black Bear Conservation Program
• Black Bear Management
• Living with Maryland’s Black Bears

WASHINGTON - Firefighters rescued a woman who was trapped under a Metrobus in northwest D.C.

The incident was reported just before midnight on Wednesday night near 7th Street and P Street.

The woman suffered critical injuries and was transported to a nearby trauma center.

The investigation is continuing.

Update person trapped under bus 7th & P Sts NW. Adult female extricated by firefighters has critical injuries being transported to a trauma center. #DCsBravest pic.twitter.com/7lOeDHkF7l

— DC Fire and EMS Department (@dcfireems) December 19, 2024

WASHINGTON - The murder hornet, the world's largest that’s known for its painful sting and capability to destroy a honey bee hive in hours, has been declared eradicated in the U.S. The news comes five years after their initial sighting in Washington state near the Canadian border.

The Washington State Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced the eradication on Wednesday, saying there have been no sightings of the northern giant hornet in Washington since 2021.

READ MORE: Relative of the 'murder hornet' found along East Coast in US for first time

This success is a sizable success, involving community efforts like placing traps, reporting sightings, and scientists capturing live hornets, tagging them with tiny radio tracking devices, and locating nests. Experts destroyed the nests just as queens were starting to emerge.

The hornets, also known as Asian giant hornets, can reach lengths of 2 inches. They gained worldwide attention in 2013 when they killed 42 people and injured 1,675 in China. In the U.S., about 72 people die from bee and hornet stings annually, according to the National Institutes of Health.

READ MORE: Don't worry! The 'murder hornet' is not expected to make its way to the DC region

First detected in North America in British Columbia, Canada, in August 2019, the hornets were confirmed in Washington state in December 2019. 

Experts suggest the hornets may have arrived in North America via plant pots or shipping containers.

What is the Northern Giant Hornet (Murder Hornet)?

The northern giant hornet (Vespa mandarinia) is the largest hornet in the world, measuring up to 2 inches long. This invasive species, native to Asia, generally doesn't attack people unless it feels threatened. However, it poses a grave threat to honey bee hives, which it can destroy within hours.

The pest preys on honey bees and poses an indirect threat to plants that depend on honey bees for pollination. The northern giant hornet was first reported in the Vancouver Island area of Canada in August 2019 and has since been detected in the northwest corner of Washington State. If it spreads to other U.S. States, it could adversely impact honey bees and the pollination services they provide.

Information from usda.gov

WASHINGTON - Unauthorized drones are becoming a growing nuisance at NFL games, prompting league officials and other major sports organizations to push Congress for urgent action to prevent potential safety risks.

The NFL, Major League Baseball, and NASCAR are demanding swift approval of legislation aimed at curbing the increasing number of unauthorized drones violating restricted airspace during games and events. 

The bipartisan Safeguarding the Homeland from the Threats Posed by Unmanned Aircraft Systems Act, designed to give state and local authorities the power to intercept rogue drones, was blocked in the Senate earlier this year, leaving the issue unresolved.

"The time for us to act on this is now," said Cathy Lanier, the NFL’s chief security officer. "We don’t want to wait until something bad happens."

The numbers highlight the growing problem: drone sightings at NFL games have skyrocketed from just 12 in 2017 to more than 2,800 in 2023. Lanier called it an alarming trend, adding that while the NFL has the technology to detect drones, federal law prevents the league from taking action.

"We know how significant this threat is, and there’s nothing more we can do," Lanier said.

The league emphasized the need for stronger safeguards to prevent disruptions and ensure fan safety. 

"It feels like Groundhog Day," Lanier said. 

Senator Rand Paul’s opposition blocked the recent bill, grounding the NFL’s hopes for a safer game-day environment. At this time, efforts to pass the measure remain stalled.

Lanier warned that without action, unauthorized drones could turn a thrilling game day into a nightmare. 

"We just need to get this across the finish line," she said.

With millions of fans attending NFL games each year, the league is urging Congress to recover this fumble in drone regulation before it’s too late.

The Dane County Medical Examiner’s Office has identified the three people who died in the Abundant Life Christian School shooting in Madison on Monday, Dec. 16.

The three fatalities include 42-year-old Erin M. West of Deforest, 14-year-old Rubi P. Vergara of Madison and 15-year-old Natalie "Samantha" L. Rupnow of Madison.

West was a staff member at the school and Vergara was a freshman student. They were both pronounced deceased at the scene.

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Meanwhile, Rupnow has been identified as the suspected shooter. Officials say she died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Forensic autopsies confirmed West and Vergara died from homicidal firearm-related trauma.

The Madison Police Department said six others were injured in the shooting. Police are continuing to investigate.

Freshman funeral service

Gunderson East Funeral and Cremation Care said a funeral service for Vergara will be held at City Church, 4909 E. Buckeye Road, Madison, at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 21. Burial will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park. Visitation begins at 9 a.m. at the church.

A livestream will be available on the funeral home's website.

COMPLETE COVERAGE: Follow the latest from FOX6 News on the Madison school shooting

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Abundant Life Christian School, c/o City Church. Online condolences can be made here.

Her obituary said Vergara was an avid reader, loved art, singing and playing keyboard in the family worship band.

How to help

If you wish to support the families, you can donate through a site set up by the United Way of Dane County. You can visit UnitedWayDaneCounty.org or you can text Help4ALCS to 40403.

Paris Hilton was on Capitol Hill this week lobbying legislation that would require more oversight of youth residential treatment facilities. The Stop Institutional Child Abuse Act passed in the House Wednesday after passing in the Senate last week. 

The legislation will now go to President Joe Biden’s desk to be signed into law.

Stop Institutional Child Abuse Act passes House

The Backstory: Hilton has spent the last several years testifying about the abuse she says she suffered years ago at a boarding school in Utah. She was sent to Provo Canyon School for 11 months at age 17 where she says she was abused mentally and physically, recalling that staff members would beat her, force her to take unknown pills, watch her shower and send her to solitary confinement without clothes as punishment. The 43-year-old said the treatment was so "traumatizing" that she has suffered nightmares and insomnia for years.

Details of the abuse were also chronicled in a documentary she released, titled "This is Paris" that was released in September 2020.

What They're Saying: "This moment is proof that our voices matter, that speaking out can spark change, and that no child should ever endure the horrors of abuse in silence," Hilton said in an social media post following the vote. "I did this for the younger version of myself and the youth who were senselessly taken from us by the Troubled Teen industry."

Hilton was spotted this week around D.C. riding her Airwheel electric scooter luggage. 

What's next: The legislation passed this week would establish an interagency work group under Department of Health & Human Services that would bring greater transparency around treatment of youth in these programs, particularly when staff use restraints and seclusion rooms as forms of punishment. Hilton’s advocacy has helped changed laws to protect minors in at least eight states, including in Hilton’s home state of California, where similar legislation will go into effect on Jan. 1.

Abuse in the troubled teen industry

Local perspective: FOX 5’s Jacqueline Matter spoke earlier this year with several victims from the area who shared the horrific experiences they had within the walls of these privately-run youth residential facilities that claim to "cure" young people who struggle with everything from substance abuse to emotional problems. 

Watch Stolen Innocence: A FOX 5 Documentary on FOX Local. Here's how to download on your phone and smart TV. 

What we know

WASHINGTON - A teenager surrendered to police Wednesday after allegedly shooting a 17-year-old girl during an attempted robbery near Dunbar High School.

Justice Thomas, 18, of Northeast D.C. is now being charged with assault with a dangerous weapon. But police are still searching for more suspects. 

What DC Police are saying

According to the Metropolitan Police Department, the shooting happened around 3:02 p.m. in the 200 block of Morgan Street NW.

The victim, a Dunbar High School student, was transported to a local hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries. 

After being shot, she managed to get to the school for help, police said.

MPD said two suspects attempted to rob the girl at gunpoint when a third suspect — believed to be Thomas — exited a vehicle, leading to an exchange of gunfire. 

Officers found multiple shell casings at the scene, and two vehicles were damaged by bullets.

A vehicle linked to the suspects was last seen traveling eastbound on the 100 block of N Street NW.

Police are urging anyone with information about the case to contact MPD.

A "Real Housewives of Potomac" star is on trial this week after an alleged drunk driving incident in March resulted in a car wreck.

Karen Huger, 61, faces eight charges total, including Driving a Vehicle While Impaired by Alcohol and Driving a Vehicle While Under the Influence of Alcohol. 

Just before midnight on March 19, 2024, authorities said Huger crashed her car near Oaklyn Drive in Potomac.

A man who witnessed the wreckage testified in court Tuesday that the car smelled like alcohol. Other witnesses who testified in court Tuesday included a volunteer EMT who responded that night, along with two police officers.

The EMT told the jury, that Huger refused treatment on the scene and "swayed" as she tried to get into the ambulance. 

Once inside the ambulance, she testified Huger used profanity towards the first responders.

The EMT testified, that Huger told them to "f—k off" and "go f--k yourselves" on more than one occasion. However, she would also compliment a female firefighter a few minutes later.

"You’re so pretty, and you’re so beautiful," the EMT told the jury, referring to Huger’s alleged statements.

In court Tuesday, body camera footage was also shown to the jury. 

The body camera was worn by an officer who arrested Huger. He is heard on camera telling her she was "hammered," as she appeared to slur her speech in the cruiser.

"This is bulls—t," Huger is heard saying. "I hate you, you know that?"

Kush Arora, a defense attorney not affiliated with this case, said it’s not unheard of for DUI cases to go to trial. However, Arora said it is a bit unusual that Huger’s attorneys would not try the case in District Court first, given how appeal laws work in Maryland.

"If a DUI case is, for example, in the District Court, usually, it’s the appropriate thing to have your trial in the district court. Try to win there, or at least try to win on some of the charges," Arora said.

If the outcome is not favorable for the defendant, Arora said the charges could be brought to the circuit level.

According to reports, Huger refused a breathalyzer and field sobriety test. Arora said in a case like this, body camera video could be critical.

"Over the last several years it’s been available to us, it’s been a game changer with respect to DUI cases because it really gives us an opportunity to put eyes on the situation, a situation that oftentimes doesn’t make it to court for months, perhaps people’s memories fade, information is not as clear," he said. "The body camera footage really helps clear that up, and I think a finder of that … whether it’s a judge or a jury … is going to rely heavily on that information when making a determination about that evidence in the case."

According to a motion filed in July, attorneys for Huger tried to get the case dismissed by claiming the evidence collected was a result of an illegal search and seizure. In response, prosecutors filed a motion stating some of the statements made by Huger were made while medical professionals were trying to treat her and not during a custodial interrogation.

The state rested its case Wednesday, along with the defense. Huger's team presented two witnesses, including her cousin who testified he was on the phone with her when the car crashed. 

He testified, Huger was upset over personal matters, but her speech did not seem slurred or abnormal.

The jury was delivered the case around 3:30 p.m. Wednesday and has not returned with a verdict as of this writing.

FREDERICKSBURG, Va. - Fredericksburg police have identified the suspect wanted in connection to a shooting that left a 23-year-old man dead in the early morning hours Saturday. 

Police say Elijah Musgrove is wanted for second-degree murder, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony. 

Police say officers responded to the 400 block of William Street after hearing gunfire around 1 a.m. on Dec. 14. Upon arrival, officers found a male victim suffering from gunshot wounds on Charles Street. 

They provided aid until EMS arrived at the scene and the victim was taken to the hospital where he was later pronounced dead. He has since been identified as Tyler Lee Jones of Fredericksburg. 

Police say the investigation is still in its early stages and no suspect information has been released at this time. The Stafford and Spotsylvania County Sheriff's Offices assisted.

Police say Musgrove should be considered armed and dangerous. 

Authorities said another man was also charged in the deadly shooting. Izaiah Jabbar Daniels, 21, is currently incarcerated at the Rappahannock Regional Jail, facing charges of second-degree murder and the use of a firearm in the commission of a felony.

The Orange County Sheriff's Office took Daniels into custody during a vehicle stop. The Fredericksburg Police Department then obtained warrants and took Daniels into custody. 

Anyone with further information or video footage related to this incident, or information on the suspect's whereabouts is asked to call 911 or (540) 373-3122. 

WASHINGTON - D.C. may soon see the return of the Trump International Hotel. 

Reports indicate President-elect Donald Trump is considering repurchasing the Waldorf-Astoria, formerly known as the Trump International Hotel, and rebranding it under the Trump name.

In a recent interview with the New York Post, Eric Trump, executive vice president of the Trump Organization, said, "The Trump family saved the hotel once, and if asked, would save it again." 

The report notes that the hotel, sold by the Trump Organization in 2022 and renamed Waldorf-Astoria, has seen declining performance since the rebranding, with investors now exploring a sale.

While the potential return of the Trump Hotel has excited many conservatives online, critics are raising ethical concerns about its implications. Noah Bookbinder, president of the Committee for Ethics and Responsibility in Washington, expressed worries about conflicts of interest. "During the first Trump administration, the D.C. hotel was a one-stop shop for people to curry favor with the President and the administration," Bookbinder told FOX 5.

Former Maryland Attorney General Brian Frosh echoed these concerns, citing past lawsuits targeting the Trump Hotel for alleged violations of the Constitution’s Emoluments Clause. 

"He monetized his candidacy, and it looks like he’s going to be trying to monetize the presidency," Frosh said. "This gives people a way to curry favor with the administration by doing business with the President’s hotel."

Congressman Gerry Connolly (D-VA), the ranking Democrat on the House Oversight Committee, also criticized the possible move. 

In a statement to FOX 5, Connolly called the hotel "a sandwich board of conflicts of interest," adding, "He now returns to dip his finger back into the pot."

WASHINGTON - Infamous D.C. cocaine druglord Rayful Edmond died at the age of 60 Tuesday. His death came just months after his release from prison.  

Edmond's drug operation profited hundreds of millions of dollars at the height of the crack epidemic in the 1980s.

There are no confirmed details about his death but numerous reports indicate Edmond died of a sudden heart attack at the halfway house where he was living in Miami. 

"I'm back better than ever," Edmond was seen saying in the only video of him we've seen since his release from a federal prison last summer. He was captured on camera at an airport just after his release and the video was shared on social media.

RELATED: Former DC drug kingpin Rayful Edmond dead at 60

"My first thought was man, I hope he wasn’t assassinated. But as it turns out, apparently he died of natural death and anybody who’s been in prison long enough eating prison food doesn’t take much to imagine how that can happen," said Billy Murphy, one of the attorneys who represented Edmond over the years.  

FOX 5 had Murphy on camera outside D.C.'s federal courthouse back in September 1990, on the day Edmond was sentenced to life in prison.

"This kid was a genius. There’s no question about it. I sat with him every day during a very long trial. What would’ve happened to him had he instead of having two parents who trained him to be a drug dealer from the earliest of ages?"  Murphy said. "If he had had two parents who were successful business people or business executives who trained him in the right direction."

Edmond spent 35 years in prison. He was arrested at age 24 and convicted of running a multi-million dollar criminal conspiracy dealing crack cocaine on the streets of D.C., leading to multiple murders as well. 

RELATED: Rayful Edmond III's life sentence for cocaine-related charges in DC reduced by federal judge

"I think Rayful Edmond has been held accountable for the human destruction and tragedy that he has brought to the city and to the lives of thousands of young people who live in this community," then-U.S. Attorney Jay Stephens said back in 1990.

But Edmond would continue running his enterprise from inside a Pennsylvania prison, leading to more jail time. He later turned and became an informant, leading to the arrests of nearly a dozen of his former cohorts.

"I don't think I'm gonna spend the rest of my life in prison. I think I'm gonna go home one day soon," Edmond said in his younger years. 

While it didn’t happen quickly, his hopes became a reality in July 2024. Despite being sentenced to life in prison, Edmond was released into the community last summer. His sudden death coming just five months later.

There’s no word on any services for Edmond as of yet. FOX 5 is told that Edmond is survived by his mother, who also went to prison as part of that conspiracy, and at least one sister.

MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Md. - Just a day after the passage of the RFK Stadium bill — which would transfer ownership of the stadium site over to D.C. — appeared certain, the tides may be changing as Republican opposition to the larger spending bill that the legislation is tucked into grows. 

The RFK Stadium bill is included in a must-pass continuing resolution to fund the government that still requires House and Senate approval. The bill is a crucial step for a potential Commanders return to D.C.

Fox News reported Wednesday evening that there would be no more votes in the U.S. House of Representatives, which is significant because it was expected that the House was set to decide on this bill at some point Wednesday evening or Thursday morning.

Republican opposition has grown after the bill was released Tuesday night. 

A short time ago, President-Elect Donald Trump came out with a statement saying he wants a "streamlined spending bill instead of the current continuing resolution." 

As it relates to the RFK campus transfer, a source in the Mayor’s Office tells FOX 5 they’re closely monitoring these developments on Capitol Hill.

If it passes, we’d be looking at a pretty unique situation for a sports franchise relocating with three jurisdictions — D.C., Maryland and Virginia — all vying for a new stadium.

Melinda Roth is a sports law professor at George Washington University. She expects a competitive process which will include offers of public money in some capacity.

"It’s going to be incredibly likely that to compete, Maryland and Virginia, their package to compete will include public money," Roth said. "So, is Josh Harris and his partners, are they going to be willing to fully fund this? It’s going to be very unlikely if they’ve got competing offers that don’t force them to do it." 

Roth says D.C.’s path to public funding is arguably the most challenging.

Budgets are not infinite, it’s the smallest of the three jurisdictions, and we’ve heard from D.C. Councilmembers, who would ultimately have to approve the deal, say they are not in favor of public money being used to fund a stadium.

Mayor Bowser told me a plan for the site has been in the works for years and coming up with a good deal for the District that includes housing, economic development and potentially a stadium that’s also a good deal for taxpayers is a priority.

FOX 5 asked if that would include public money.

"The District will invest at RFK, just as we do for all of our large parcels and we’re going to invest at RFK whether there’s a stadium there or not and it will likely be in the form of infrastructure," Mayor Bowser said.

The context of that remark: the District has utilized economic developments plans before that create the infrastructure needed to support new projects.

Bowser says no specific plans or costs have been finalized but she wants a new stadium in D.C.

There was no response from the Commanders Wednesday but they have previously said they’re fortunate to have interest from three jurisdictions. 

PRINCE GEOREGE'S CO., Md. - Police in Prince George's County are investigating a double homicide.

Officers responded to the 100 block of Seneca Drive in Forest Heights just before 6 p.m. Tuesday for a report of a shooting. When they arrived, they found two men with gunshot wounds. 

Both were pronounced dead by Prince George's County EMS at the scene. They have since been identified as 24-year-old Brian Freeman of Forest Heights and 21-year-old Sakou Mathis of Washington, D.C.

The investigation has been taken over by Prince George's County homicide detectives. No additional information about the victims or potential suspect(s) has been released at this time. 

PRINCE GEOREGE'S CO., Md. - A man has died two months after a hit-and-run crash in Prince George’s County, police say. 

The victim has been identified as 47-year-old Deon Anthony Smith. 

According to police, Smith was injured in the hit-and-run around 10:20 p.m. on Oct. 17 in the 4300 block of St. Barnabas Road in Temple Hills. He was taken to the hospital for treatment. 

MORE FROM FOX 5: Two deadly hit-and-runs leave Prince George’s County residents grieving

The preliminary investigation revealed that the driver struck the victim on St. Barnabas Road and fled the scene. 

Investigators are still working to identify the driver and striking vehicle in this incident.

Smith was pronounced dead on Dec. 14. The case is now being investigated as a fatal hit-and-run.

Anyone with information on this case is asked to call the Prince George’s County Police Department’s Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Unit at 301-731-4422.

BETHESDA, Md. - Montgomery County police say a dog was killed by two other dogs — one of which was later shot by police — and two women were injured trying to break up the incident Wednesday morning. 

It all took place in the 7000 block of Heather Hill Road. Police say they were called to the scene at approximately 10:35 a.m. for a report of a dog attack.

Here's what happened

They were told that two dogs charged at another dog that was walking with its owner. One of the dogs left the scene while the other continued attacking the victim dog, killing it.

During the attack, two women sustained non-life-threatening injuries while trying to intervene. Both were transported to an area hospital.

The attacking dog then charged at the responding officers, who shot and killed it.

Police say the attacking dogs reportedly live in the neighborhood. It is unclear if their owner was present at the time of the incident.

No additional information has been released at this time.

PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY, Va. - A 19-year-old Woodbridge man has been charged with raping a minor that he met on Snapchat, Prince William County police say.

Police say the incident occurred in July 2023, when the victim was under the age of 13. 

The victim and the suspect, identified as Christopher Garcia Moreno, met on Snapchat and began a relationship.

In July 2023, Moreno met the victim at her home and sexually assaulted her. She reported the incident to family members who contacted the police. 

Throughout the investigation, detectives obtained arrest warrants for Moreno. He was taken into custody without incident on Dec. 10, 2024.

His next court date is pending and his current bond status is not yet known.