Senator Jamie Raskin

http://www.fredericknewspost.com/sections/news/displayUpdate.htm?StoryID=72806 

State spending details could be available on the web
Originally published March 22, 2008

By Meg Bernhardt   ANNAPOLIS — A local state senator’s attempt to make government spending accessible on the web is gaining momentum. Sen. Alex Mooney, a Republican representing Frederick and Washington counties, is sponsoring a bill with Sen. Jamie Raskin, a Democrat representing Montgomery County, to create a public website cataloging state grant awards and purchases of more than $25,000. A similar measure has already passed in the House of Delegates, and there was no opposition at a Senate committee hearing this week. Mooney believes taxpayers have a right to know how their tax dollars are being spent, and sees the Internet as a strong tool. “Frankly, having our constituents watch us, watch government, makes us more accountable,” Mooney said. The legislation is based on a similar federal website recently launched, www.USAspending.gov. Delegate Rick Weldon, a Republican representing Frederick and Washington counties, also supports the idea and helped shepherd it through the House Health and Government Operations Committee.

For the full story, check Sunday's edition of The Frederick News-Post.