Session Week #4

Session Week #3 The pace has quickened in the past week with more bills being drafted, submitted, and heard in committee. The big story came on Wednesday when Governor Hogan delivered his second State of the State address to the General Assembly. The Governor discussed the events and accomplishments over the past year, which included him overcoming a cancer diagnosis and the Baltimore riots. Here are some excerpts from his speech: None of us could have foreseen just how much we would be asked to overcome: the riots and lawlessness that threatened to tear Baltimore City apart; for me personally, a life-altering diagnosis requiring me to publicly wage what is normally a very private battle; and last week an historic winter storm that left a season’s worth of snowfall in just two days. Together, we have been tested. But in the face of adversity, we were not Democrats or Republicans looking backward. We were Marylanders with our eyes fixed forward, working together for a better tomorrow.  * There is so much more that unites us, than that which divides us. There is so much we can find agreement on. In the days ahead, I extend my hand to you – in cooperation and in devotion to our duty – and I ask each of you, and all Marylanders, to seek that middle ground where we can all stand together. Because together, we are stronger. Together, we can continue on this bold new path. And together, we can and we will change Maryland for the better. Each week I will be spotlighting some bills that I have sponsored or co-sponsored. Here are two: HB116 Motor Fuel Tax Rates - Consumer Price Index Adjustment Repeal Currently, the tax on gasoline in Maryland is automatically increased based upon the Consumer Price Index. This allows for a tax increase without the General Assembly having to vote on the tax increase. I disagree with our taxes being increased automatically and have for the second year in a row co-sponsored a bill to repeal this practice. HB121 Criminal Law - False Statement Concerning Destructive Device or Toxic Material - Venue This bill was submitted by my colleague Delegate Mary Beth Carozza. If passed, it will give law enforcement more power to go after the individuals who have plagued our local school systems with bomb threats. If you are coming to Annapolis for a visit, have an idea, issue, or concern, please reach out to our office via phone or email: 410-841-3431carl.anderton@house.state.md.us Thank you for your support. In the picture Gary Mangum is testifying on the "Beekeeper" bill about neonicotinoids. Note: That diet Sunkist is Delegate Kathy Szeliga's. It's not mine...really it's not.