Good morning,
Here’s an update on what’s happening in Annapolis at the end of the third week of the 2023 Legislative Session. I have been in committee briefings all week getting caught up by experts on key issues that will be worked on throughout session. Hearings on specific bills will begin in the coming days.
Weekly Video Update from Annapolis - Week 3
You can watch my weekly video update by clicking the picture below.
Ready in the Press – Attack on Concealed Carry
On Tuesday, I was on Fox 45 for their “Statehouse Spotlight” to discuss SB1, which would prohibit someone with a Concealed Carry permit from carrying in any place of public accommodation. I briefly debated the bill sponsor on this issue, which you can watch by clicking here.
One of my top priorities in Annapolis has been defending and advancing the 2nd Amendment – along with all our Constitutional rights. It was a great victory when the Supreme Court ruled that law-abiding citizens were no longer required to provide a "good and substantial reason" to carry a firearm in public to protect themselves.
Only about six months later, the Maryland General Assembly is targeting these law-abiding citizens, and wishing to strip them of this right.
I am adamantly opposed to SB 1 and SB 118, and will be doing all that I can, along with many of my Republican colleagues, to fight against this bill. The focus of the Maryland General Assembly should be going after the bad guys for change and stop targeting those who just want to practice their 2nd Amendment rights legally.
I made a short video about this overall issue that you can watch by clicking here.
Carroll & Frederick Community Colleges in Annapolis
It was great to see President Ball and the Carroll Community College Board down in Annapolis for College lobby night. I also met with the Fredrick Community College board and President Cheek.
The best value in higher education are our community colleges and they are leading the way on job training and continuing education. I’m a proud graduate of Carroll Community College and will continue supporting the great work they and Fredrick Community are doing.
Pictured with Dr. Ball and the Carroll Community College Board as well as Delegate Eric Bouchat and Delegate Josh Stonko
Carroll County Farm Museum – State Funds Secured
On Wednesday, January 25, 2023, the Maryland Board of Public Works approved a $250,000 grant to the Board of County Commissioners of Carroll County for planning, design, construction, repair, renovation, and site improvement at the Carroll County Farm Museum. This was funds that our District 5 team secured in the 2022 Legislative Session and it has now been approved fully.
District 5 Night in Annapolis - Save the Date
Please join us for our Annual District 5 Night in Annapolis. February 20, 2023, at the Maryland Inn, 16 Church Circle, Annapolis, Maryland. More details coming soon but if you want to register for this event in advance, please email my official state account - [email protected].
Information on How to Testify Before Senate Committees
During the 2023 legislative session, it is highly encouraged that individuals who wish to testify on legislation in Senate committees do so in person, in Annapolis. However, there is a somewhat complicated process for those who wish to do so or testify virtually.
Luckily, the Maryland General Assembly website has complete video tutorials on this process, including how to make a MyMGA account, sign up as a witness, and more. You can find these video tutorials by clicking here.
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, 2023.