February 6, 2026
Ready Report: Session Week 4, Proposed DDA Cuts, End VEIP Bill Hearing & More…
The fourth week of the 90-day 2026 Legislative Session in Annapolis has concluded.
To watch my weekly video update discussing the Governor’s proposed Developmental Disability Agency (DDA) funding cuts, click here or the image below.
Bill Prohibiting 287(g) Programs in Maryland Passes Both Chambers
Last week, I wrote to you about SB 245, which would prohibit local law enforcement from entering an “immigration enforcement agreement” with the federal government. This week, SB 245, along with its cross-file HB 444 passed their respective chambers. Each bill will now be heard in an expedited manner in the opposite chambers.
I offered a lengthy floor speech on the subject on Wednesday arguing against SB 245 which you can watch by clicking here.
Hearing for SB 106 – Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program Repeal
On Wednesday, my bill SB 106 was heard before the Senate Judicial Proceedings Committee, which seeks to end Maryland’s Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program. This program, which was originally established to ensure that cars on Maryland’s roads were not over-polluting, is now out-of-date as over 90% of vehicles pass the inspection. Plus, among those that fail, roughly 6% of them are not due to pollutants, but due to a check engine light or another non-emissions issue.
This program is no longer necessary and serves as yet another cash grab by the state of Maryland. We also just found out that most of the program’s net profit comes from fines and late fees, falling heaviest on the lowest income drivers. I think the hearing went well and will keep you updated the best I can moving forward.
To read a WMAR Chanel 2 article about this issue, click here.
Speaking with David Collins of WBAL TV about the bill
THIS MONDAY – District 5 & Carroll County Night in Annapolis
You are cordially invited to attend “An Evening in Annapolis with the Carroll County Delegation” on February 9th, from 5:30pm to 7:30pm. The event will take place in the Miller Senate Office Building, in President’s Conference Center East (11 Bladen Street, Annapolis, Maryland 21401).
All District 5 residents are invited to this event as is anyone else in Carroll County, Senator Chris West & Delegate Josh Stonko who represents the rest of Carroll County in District 42C will be joining us. This is a free event where refreshments will be served.
Following the event, guests are welcome to walk over to the Statehouse and watch either the House or Seante session at 8pm. Please bring a photo ID with you for entry into both the office building and Statehouse.
NOTE: Pocketknives (and similar items) are not permitted so leave those behind in your vehicle or at home.
RSVP: Senator Justin Ready at 410-841-3683 or email [email protected].
Senatorial Scholarships Available
If you are or know a high school senior or college student, please consider applying for a Senatorial Scholarship. For more information or to request an application, email Emily Van Horn at [email protected] and include your full address. Scholarships will be accepted up to April 15, 2026.
It is an honor to represent you in the Maryland Senate. As always, feel free to reach out to my office anytime with questions or concerns. Please be sure to follow me on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter/X for the most up-to-date information.
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