March 21, 2024

“Crossover” was Monday– the day by which bills must pass the chamber where they were introduced. Many of my bills have moved to the House; I even had five hearings on Tuesday! Meanwhile, the Education, Energy, & Environment Committee has started considering House bills that have crossed over.

Making Maryland Home

This session, we are working to address Maryland’s crisis-level shortage in housing. SB370 would allocate rental assistance for low-income families with children. The House passed Del. Jheanelle Wilkins’s HB477, which would require landlords to provide “Just Cause” for evictions to protect the rights of renters.

The Governor has three housing bills in his legislative package:

• The Housing & Community Development Financing Act would lead to more investments in low-income communities;
• The Renters’ Rights & Stabilization Act would give tenants the “right of first refusal”– allowing them the opportunity to buy a property before the landlord sells it to anyone else; and
• The Housing Expansion & Affordability Act would allow development projects to exceed density limits if affordable housing is included.

Pursuing Justice

As always, juvenile justice reform is in the headlines this session. The Washington Post, the Baltimore Sun, and Maryland Matters have all featured it. Bipartisan legislation (SB744) would expand a commission encouraging more effective rehabilitation methods; enable extended probations; and permit the charging of adolescents aged 10-12 for certain “crimes of violence.” It’s sad that these children lack the supports to address any issues before violence occurs, and I remain committed to improving resources for all young people. The Senate and House have passed slightly different versions that will have to be reconciled.

Rocking Socks for Advocacy

I’m wearing my mismatched socks today in honor of World Down Syndrome Day. We should demonstrate that Maryland is inclusive, creating opportunities for all members of our community.

Wishing you all the best…

Cheryl

Cheryl C. Kagan

State Senator, District 17

(Gaithersburg & Rockville)

www.CherylKagan.org

PS: I often post brief “Facebook Live” updates from Annapolis. Please find them on my YouTube Channel or on Facebook (@CherylCKagan), and check out this week’s video!