Maryland Gov Larry Hogan extends order barring utility shutoffs, late fees

Loading Video…

This browser does not support the Video element.

Maryland congressman wants to pay unemployed waiting for benefits

A Maryland congressman is joining efforts to immediately pay thousands of people waiting for unemployment benefits.

Maryland Governor Larry Hogan once again extended the order barring utilities from shutting off residents’ services on Tuesday.

Download the FOX 5 DC News App for Local Breaking News and Weather

The order – which extends the moratorium through Aug. 1 – will also bar utilities from charging late fees.

The utilities covered by the bill include electricity, water, phone and internet.

READ MORE: Local leaders call for rent cancellations amid coronavirus lockdown

Maryland’s economy has struggled under restrictions put in place to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus.

As “non-essential” businesses shut down or drastically reduce services, unemployment in Maryland soared.

RELATED: Maryland Dept. of Labor worker tells unemployed woman he’s swamped, can’t help her

The governor initially extended the moratorium through July 1.