MARYLAND BRIEFING

Some lawmakers bristled at the idea, which has caused considerable debate. They say the bill, which would allow disputes to be taken to circuit court, could allow public universities to sue one another.

The measure, which received a hearing by the House Appropriations Committee yesterday, was prompted by a 2005 vote by the commission that endorsed a joint MBA program at Towson University and the University of Baltimore over the objections of nearby Morgan State University. Maryland agreed to desegregate its historically black universities with unique programs that would attract white students.

-- Associated Press

BALTIMORE SLAYING

Guilty Plea by Prince George's Man

A Capitol Heights man has pleaded guilty to first-degree murder for stabbing his former girlfriend in the throat while she waited at a Baltimore bus stop, state prosecutors said.

Earl Holeman, 38, was sentenced to life in prison with all but 30 years suspended after entering the plea Tuesday.

On New Year's Day in 2006, Holeman stabbed Michelle Denton, 49, in the city's downtown. Images from a city security camera showed Holeman running away, prosecutors said.

Holeman was arrested by Baltimore police after they were notified by a camera operator who saw him running. The camera did not film the homicide.

Police said the two got into an argument before Holeman attacked her with a knife.

The city set up about 300 security cameras at high-crime areas beginning in May 2005. The city's program has become a model for urban police departments.

-- Associated Press