February 9, 2024

The Senate has debated some controversial issues this week. I am committed to supporting legislation that aligns with my values. I oppose SB381, which would target transgender students and preclude them from joining sports teams that align with their gender identity. As I shared last week, I strongly support SB443, the End-of-Life Option Act, with its heartbreaking testimony presented by both sides.

New and Mighty!

Saturday is Lunar New Year– and the Year of the Dragon. Just as a dragon is both majestic and ferocious, let’s be well-spoken advocates, fiercely committed to our goals!

“State of the State”

Governor Wes Moore delivered his second annual “State of the State” address. He shared his commitment to partnerships with his Administration, the legislature, and our communities. The Governor also emphasized public safety; making Maryland more competitive; increasing access to affordable child care; and much more. We have accomplished a lot over the past year and– in the Governor’s words– “we still have work to do.” Watch the Governor’s address!

Protecting Maryland’s Children

Along with Montgomery County’s Del. Jared Solomon, I am sponsoring a bill to improve “active shooter drills” in schools so they are less traumatic. These drills can provoke anxiety, depression, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.

SB432, a priority of Moms Demand Action, would:

• Require research on the effects of active shooter drills on students;
• Prohibit the use of loud sounds intended to imitate gunfire or explosions;
• Provide parents with the annual schedule of drills (without exact dates) at the beginning of each school year;
• Identify students and staff who may need additional support;
• Conduct a mental health check-in afterwards; and
• Create instructional guidelines regarding safe storage of firearms.

Supporting Nonprofits

As I mentioned last week, I love seeing my constituents in Annapolis! From the floor of the Senate today, I recognized the CEO of Interfaith Works, which provides assistance to our neighbors in need. Leaders from the American Jewish Committee (AJC) also visited me as we met with Attorney General Anthony Brown about the spike in hate crimes and Antisemitism.

And “G.R.E.E.N.” is coming to the Senate floor today! This bill would enable nonprofits to transition to renewable energy by creating an interest-free revolving loan fund.

All the best,

Cheryl

Cheryl C. Kagan

State Senator, District 17

(Gaithersburg & Rockville)

www.CherylKagan.org

PS: To honor the memory of the late Senator Doug Peters, several of my Senate colleagues and I ran into the (freezing!) Chesapeake Bay to raise money for the Maryland Special Olympics in the “Legislator Polar Bear Plunge.” #BRRR