March 20, 2025

We’ve crossed over to the other side! No, I haven’t suddenly become a Republican. “Crossover” marks the point in the legislative session when bills that have passed the Senate move to the House of Delegates– and those that originated in the House come to our chamber. Now, we begin the final sprint to the last day of session. Because of crossover, I had seven hearings in the House this week– with nine scheduled (so far!) for next week.

Finalizing the Fiscal Framework

Earlier today, Gov. Wes Moore, Senate President Bill Ferguson, and House Speaker Adrienne Jones announced their agreement on a rough plan for this year’s budget. Our Constitution requires us to pass a balanced budget before the end of the legislative session. The challenging fiscal situation has been made infinitely more difficult by the “Trump/Musk” Administration. As a result, my Budget Committee colleagues are faced with impossible choices: Which programs can be cut? Which taxes or fees could be raised? How much should be kept in our Rainy Day Fund?

A few highlights of the proposed framework include:

• An impressive 94% of Marylanders will see either no increase or a reduction in their personal income tax;
• The sports wagering tax will increase from 15% to 20%; and,
• The cannabis tax will increase from 9% to 12%.

The budget is still very much a work in progress. Negotiations will continue over the next 11 days, and I’ll keep you updated.

Holding Nominees Accountable

Among the Senate’s responsibilities is to “advise and consent” on the Governor’s appointments to State Boards and Commissions. I had serious concerns about one of the nominees for the Commission on Judicial Disabilities. For more than 25 years as our State Administrator of Elections, Linda Lamone had a terrible record of mismanagement, questionable judgement, and a lack of accountability. I spoke against her confirmation on the Senate floor. Her nomination was rejected with a 20-25 vote.

“Seconds Save Lives”

I was beyond flattered to learn that Frederick County middle schooler Roman Jackson wrote about my work on 9-1-1 for his entry in the “Chords of Courage” student songwriting contest. “Seconds Save Lives” recognized the heartbreaking stories of two of those who died in my district when 9-1-1 failed, including my friend Carl Henn. In addition to his song, Roman is assembling care packages for Frederick County’s 9-1-1 Specialists, “the heroes and she-roes under the headsets.” Watch the performance here.

Women’s History Month: The Women of 9-1-1

Speaking of 9-1-1, this week’s episode of “Kibbitzing with Kagan” features Dr. Christy Collins, Executive Director of Maryland’s 9-1-1 Board. Drawing from her experiences in the military and emergency response, Dr. Collins shares insights on NextGen 9-1-1; the challenges of recruiting 9-1-1 Specialists; and the future of crisis communication.

Don’t miss our engaging discussion.

Women’s History Month: Honoring a Trailblazer

On this first day of Spring, I delivered remarks on the Senate floor about environmental “she-ro“ and Silver Spring resident, Rachel Carson. Her magnum opus, Silent Spring, awakened much of the world to the escalating environmental crisis. Ms. Carson’s passionate advocacy laid the foundation for the establishment of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and influenced conservation policy around the world. Her legacy is recognized, among other places, at Gaithersburg’s Blue Ribbon Rachel Carson Elementary School. Listen to my tribute.

Recognizing “First Citizens”

Each year, the Senate President selects a few individuals to receive the prestigious “First Citizen Award.” Created by the Maryland State Archives, it is given to public servants who have made significant contributions to our State. Today, we honored Congressman Kweisi Mfume, who has served with distinction on the Baltimore City Council; as President and CEO of the NAACP; and on numerous Boards and commissions. The other awardee was Theresa Hope-Goddard, director of the Senate Republican Caucus for more than 30 years.

Supporting District 17 Students!

Students living in District 17 who will be enrolled in college or graduate school this fall should apply for the Maryland Senatorial Scholarship. This is a wonderful, merit-based opportunity for students in my district to offset the cost of tuition. Access the application here!

Don’t forget about my Senatorial Scholarships; the deadline is coming soon…

All the best,

Cheryl

Cheryl C. Kagan

State Senator, District 17

(Gaithersburg & Rockville)

Vice Chair, Education, Energy, & the Environment Committee

www.CherylKagan.org

NOTE: My Annapolis phone number is now 410/841-3134.