April 13, 2021
Dear Friend:
The Maryland General Assembly’s 442nd Legislative Session adjourned last night at midnight. After 90 days; a whopping 2,344 bills introduced; a $54 billion balanced budget passed; and a remarkable 0 COVID-related delays, we made it!
Read on for a brief overview.
Overriding the Governor’s Vetoes
The Senate convened on Saturday to (among other things) override Gov. Larry Hogan’s five vetoes. Maryland is the first state to repeal and replace the Law Enforcement Officer’s Bill of Rights with strengthened accountability measures. Body-worn cameras will be required for all police officers by 2025. We enacted new restrictions on no-knock warrants and the use of force. While the process was often contentious, these bills will enhance public safety in our communities.
Sen. Arthur Ellis (D-28) and Sen. Katie Fry Hester (D-9) joined me for a bit of (socially distanced)
fresh air during a ten-minute break from our Saturday Session.
Passing in the Eleventh Hour
In the final minutes before adjournment, a few more of my bills made it across the finish line:
- The Pollinator Protection Act Amendment further restricts access to neonicotinoid pesticides, so toxic to our bees.
- Recycling Market Development establishes a program within the Maryland Department of the Environment for reuse of recycled materials across the state.
Watch for next week’s email, which will provide a comprehensive overview of legislation heading to the Governor’s desk.
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Best,
Cheryl
Cheryl C. Kagan
State Senator, District 17
(Gaithersburg & Rockville)
PS: Ramadan Mubarak! The most sacred month of the year in Islamic culture, Muslims observe Ramadan to mark the time that Allah gave the first chapters of the Quran to the Prophet Muhammad. May this be a meaningful and reflective 30 days to those who celebrate.
(301) 858-3134
Cheryl.Kagan@senate.state.md.us