Maryland State Sen. Jennings Calls to Protect Duties of Inspectors General

Legislation aims to give inspectors general direct access to government records amid dispute between Baltimore mayor and city inspector general.

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Maryland Republican State Sen. JB Jennings is criticizing his colleagues for not taking action to protect the ability of inspectors general to access government records. Jennings introduced legislation that would allow inspectors general to have direct access to documents, amid an ongoing dispute between Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott and the city's inspector general, Isabel Cumming.

Why it matters

Inspectors general play a crucial role in providing transparency and oversight over government spending and operations. Jennings argues that efforts to limit their access to records undermine their ability to effectively carry out their duties and hold officials accountable.

The details

Jennings' bill would redact information protected by state and federal laws, while still giving inspectors general the access they need. He says he worked closely with inspector general offices to craft the legislation. Maryland Senate President Bill Ferguson has expressed interest in addressing the issue, but noted it may be too late in the current legislative session to develop a permanent solution.

  • Jennings introduced the legislation on March 10, 2026.
  • Cumming filed a lawsuit against the mayor's office last month over access to city records.

The players

JB Jennings

A Republican state senator representing Baltimore and Harford counties in Maryland.

Isabel Cumming

The inspector general for the city of Baltimore.

Brandon Scott

The mayor of Baltimore.

Bill Ferguson

The president of the Maryland State Senate.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“IGs are the transparency for spending of taxpayers' money and here are bills that will do it. But the minute we give them power, we're pulling it right back. What is going on? Why don't we want it? What are we afraid of?”

— JB Jennings, State Senator (WBAL)

What’s next

The Maryland State Senate will need to decide whether to move forward with Jennings' legislation before the end of the current legislative session.

The takeaway

This dispute highlights the ongoing tension between government transparency and oversight, and the desire of some officials to limit the access and authority of inspectors general. The outcome could have significant implications for the ability of watchdog agencies to hold the government accountable.