February 5, 2021

Dear Friend:

 

There’s a lot of content in this email, so I will keep the intro short! Read on to learn about all of the events that took place this week…

Advocating for Unemployment Benefits

The RELIEF Act with the Senate’s Recovery Now amendment would provide $1,000 grants to anyone waiting for unemployment adjudication for more than 30 days (unless related to an allegation of fraud). On the Senate Floor, I raised the question about how we will ensure that constituents in need receive these funds. After all, the Department of Labor has not been successful in helping my Rockville and Gaithersburg constituents in a timely way. My staff and I continue to advocate for those who still have claims pending– even from last March.

“NIMBL-y” Supporting Our Nonprofits

In 2017, I enacted SB465, which created the Nonprofit, Interest-Free, Micro Bridge Loan (NIMBL). Nonprofit organizations with pending government grants or contracts often face cash flow challenges due to the delayed release of funds. NIMBL provides up to $25,000 that is repaid once the funds arrive. SB376 will ensure that NIMBL supports even more nonprofits.

Curious About Participating in a Bill Hearing?

Testifying on legislation has gotten easier! Rather than driving to Annapolis and waiting for hours, you can submit written testimony through the MyMGA website. If you need help signing up, feel free to contact my office or the bill sponsor.

Amplifying Black Voices

In light of the recent events, 2021’s Black History Month is even more important. As the General Assembly considers legislation to increase accountability and enforce police reform, I pray that our nation will not be forced to endure more horrors like the murders of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and too many other black lives.

 

Despite the challenges, we should recognize the progress we’ve made. Kamala Harris made history not only as the first woman… but as the first person of color to be sworn in as Vice President! Similarly, Speaker Adrienne Jones became the first woman AND the first person of color to lead the Maryland House of Delegates.

 

Throughout the month of February, tune in as NPR Music’s Tiny Desk Concert series features 13 Tiny Desk concerts by Black artists across genres. Choose from 91 movies and TV shows, created by or featuring Black Americans. You might also consider reading one of these 15 books by renowned African-American authors.

Setting the Record Straight

There are misleading attack ads regarding the digital advertising tax bill from last year. This legislation only applies to companies making more than $100 million in global revenues. Mega-corporations like Google can certainly afford to support Maryland’s priority needs! I plan to override the Governor’s veto to help fund our schools.

Navigating Vaccine Challenges

Five mass vaccination sites are opening around the state. They will take appointments from any Marylander able to travel to these far-flung locations. It’s absurd that Governor Hogan again overlooked Montgomery County– the most populated jurisdiction– for one of these sites!

 

PLEASE BE CAREFUL: Criminals are preying on people anxious for a vaccine and have created new online scams. These misleading sites snag your credit card number to book an appointment and may ask for your Social Security Number as well. Don’t fall victim to these crooks. COVID VACCINES ARE FREE OF CHARGE TO COUNTY RESIDENTS.

Addressing the State of the State

Gov. Hogan delivered the annual State of the State address virtually. He mourned the deaths of 7,000 Marylanders due to COVID-19; described new efforts to get vaccines into arms; and reiterated his demands to re-open schools. The Democratic response was delivered by MoCo’s own Del. Eric Luedtke, who criticized the Governor for his ineffective vaccine rollout; mismanagement of unemployment benefits; and demonization of educators for wanting to remain safe.

Please consider following me on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for photos and posts. My website has information about local Coronavirus efforts, internships, and more. Subscribe to my YouTube Channel to be notified of new episodes of “Kibbitzing with Kagan.” And, you can always send questions or comments to me via email.

Best,

 

Cheryl

 

Cheryl C. Kagan

State Senator, District 17

(Gaithersburg & Rockville)

 

 

PS: Last weekend, I joined the Mayor and Council to tour the construction site of the new Gaithersburg Police Station. It was exciting to see the progress being made on this important project.