January 29, 2021
Dear Friend:
Newly elected President Joe Biden is off to a strong start, reversing more than two dozen Trump-era policies already! Biden’s priorities directly align with the Maryland Senate’s priorities, including combatting COVID; ensuring civil liberties for all; and protecting our environment.
IMPORTANT VACCINE INFORMATION FOR MoCo RESIDENTS
Governor Hogan’s vaccine plan continues to fumble as the demand far outstrips supply. Unfortunately, Hogan has not been communicating regularly with county leaders. Dosage quantities are variable and unpredictable, making it impossible for local health officials to plan in advance. We are hopeful that supply will increase soon so appointments can be scheduled ahead of time.
If you are a Montgomery County resident age 75+ and not in a nursing home or assisted living facility, you may pre-register for an appointment. (Please assume that there will be delays in the process!)
Receiving My “Fauci Ouchie”
Legislators were included in Phase 1C for vaccines based on CDC recommendations. With our need to meet in Annapolis, “continuity of government” was prioritized so that we can continue our work on the budget, education, public safety, the environment, and much more. As a community leader, it is important to show my belief in the science behind the vaccine to save lives. More information on the State’s vaccine prioritization guidelines can be found online.
Relieving Financial Burdens
Assisting Marylanders through the COVID crisis remains a top priority for legislators of both parties. The Governor proposed a variety of assistance programs, including his proposed RELIEF Act, which was heard by the Senate Budget & Taxation Committee. The Senate Recovery Now Amendment will be added to Hogan’s legislation to provide urgently needed support to 192,000 of our most vulnerable neighbors.
Combatting Climate Change
This week, my committee heard Chair Pinsky’s proposed Climate Solutions Now Act, of which I am a co-sponsor. CO2 emissions are a significant problem, and we must act now to address its effects on our communities. Check out my episode of “Kibbitzing with Kagan” with the League of Conservation Voters‘ Kristen Harbeson to learn more about this bill and others.
Appalling… and Inspiring
Maryland Congressman Andy Harris (R-1) not only voted to challenge the 2020 Presidential Election after the insurrection, he had the audacity to bring a gun into the Capitol! On the other hand, our brilliant and remarkable Congressman Jamie Raskin (D-8) was chosen by Speaker Nancy Pelosi to lead the impeachment trial in the U.S. Senate. How interesting that Maryland has sent one of the brightest and one of the most embarrassing to represent us in Congress.
If you share my outrage over Rep. Harris, you may want to know that former Delegate and gubernatorial candidate Heather Mizeur, a talented policy leader, just announced that she will challenge the Republican Congressman in 2022. You can learn more and consider supporting her on her website.
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: Gaithersburg’s Novavax just revealed interim results of its COVID vaccine with almost 90% effectiveness against the virus!! This is the 3rd vaccine candidate to report efficacy rates above 85%. As they add 400 new jobs in Gaithersburg, we’re rooting for their success in saving lives as a result of their research!
(301) 858-3134
Cheryl.Kagan@senate.state.md.us