Annapolis Update #6

HEARING UPDATE: School Resource Officers

My primary sponsored bill, Senate Bill 644 - Public Schools - School Resource Officers - Firearms Required, was heard this week in the Senate Education, Energy and the Environment. The bill mandates that School Resource Officers (SROs) and School Police Officers carry firearms while on duty, ensuring they can respond effectively to critical threats. 

“This legislation reflects our commitment to safeguarding our children and ensuring a secure learning environment," Senator Jennings stated. "School Resource Officers are vital members of their communities and should be empowered to act decisively to protect students and staff in potentially life-threatening scenarios."

Public Parks

Senate Bill 312 - Natural Resources - State Parks - Maryland Gold Age Pass was heard in the Senate Education, Energy, and the Environment on February 11th. This legislation allows individuals aged 62 and older, who hold a Maryland Golden Age Pass issued by the Maryland Park Service, free daily entry to all State parks and complimentary boat-launching privileges at any State park.

CLICK HERE to sign up for the Golden Age Pass.

Judicial Proceedings Committee:

Eminent Domain:

I am a proud co-sponsor of Senate Bill 661- Real Property - Condemnation - Compensation for Farm and Agricultural Property (Protect Maryland Farm Lands Act). This bill was heard on February 11th in the Judicial Proceedings Committee and would permit landowners and farmers to ensure their property is purchased by the state for fair market value or 350% of the highest appraised value, if the state takes the property for public use through eminent domain.

Opioid Epidemic:

Earlier this week, the Senate Judicial Proceedings Committee heard Senate Bill 604 - Criminal Law - Distribution of Heroin or Fentanyl Causing Serious Bodily Injury or Death (Victoria, Scottie, Ashleigh, and Yader's Law). This bill establishes that unlawfully distributing heroin, fentanyl, or their chemical analogues, resulting in a death, is a felony punishable by up to 20 years of imprisonment upon conviction. This law would meaningfully empower law enforcement and the judicial branch in their work against the opioid epidemic, which has impacted to many Marylanders.

Death of a Pet:

On February 11th, the Senate Judicial Proceedings Committee heard Senate Bill 581 - Civic Actions - Tortious Injury to or Death of Pet - Compensatory Damages. This bill proposes increasing the maximum compensatory damages from $10,000 to $25,000 for pet owners whose pets are injured or killed due to another person's actions under specific circumstances.

Aggressive Driving:

Senate Bill 590 - Motor Vehicles - Reckless, Negligent, and Aggressive Driving was introduced in Judicial Proceedings on Thursday. The bill introduces updates to the state's motor vehicle laws regarding reckless, negligent, and aggressive driving. It proposes changes to penalties and point assessments, including up to 60 days of imprisonment and fines of up to $1,000 for reckless driving, as well as fines of up to $750 for negligent driving. Furthermore, the bill seeks to redefine aggressive driving by lowering the threshold of concurrent offenses from three to two and expanding the list of qualifying violations.

Domestic Violence

SB 650 - Criminal Procedure - Domestic Violence Offender Registry proposes the establishment of a Domestic Violence Offender Registry managed by the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services. Individuals convicted three or more times of domestically related crimes would be required to register with their county sheriff, who would then forward the information to the Department. The registry would be publicly accessible and include details such as the offender's name, residential address, crime descriptions, and a digital image.

Maryland Developmental Disabilities Day

On Thursday morning, I had the honor of addressing a packed room of family members and advocates during a breakfast in Annapolis to commemorate Maryland Developmental Disabilities Day.

I stressed the urgent need to protect funding for the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA), which provides life-changing services such as daily living assistance, occupational and physical therapy, adaptive technology, home modifications, employment support, and respite care for caregivers. These essential programs empower Marylanders with developmental disabilities to live with dignity and independence.

As a steadfast advocate for this community, I have consistently fought to preserve DDA funding and have been honored to be recognized for my unwavering commitment. I strongly oppose Governor Wes Moore’s proposed budget cuts, which would reduce nearly $200 million in funding for these critical services. Such cuts threaten the well-being of Maryland’s most vulnerable residents.

I stand alongside dedicated leaders like Senator Guy Guzzone, Senator Nancy King, and Senator Craig Zucker, who have been tireless champions for safeguarding DDA resources. Together, we are united in our resolve to do everything possible so that these vital programs remain intact, or as close to whole as possible.

Governor Moore’s proposed budget has sparked deep concern among advocates, caregivers, and families, who fear the devastating impact of reduced funding. The DDA already faces long waiting lists and a challenging application process.

Further cuts could result in:

• Longer delays in accessing services
• Reduced resources and staff due to lower wages
• Loss of essential care and support
• Threats to independence and increased risk of institutionalization
• Greater financial strain on families who must balance caregiving with employment

I remind my constituents that our society is measured by how we care for its most vulnerable members. That’s why I urge Marylanders to continue raising their voices and sharing their stories. As I told attendees, “Make yourself seen. Your voices matter.”

At the breakfast, a poem was shared - Welcome to Holland by Emily Perl Kingsley - a moving reflection on the unexpected journey of raising a loved one with special needs. I shared it with the audience, many of whom expressed how deeply it resonated with them. Caregivers and individuals with developmental disabilities display extraordinary resilience in finding beauty in challenges while fighting for the resources they need to thrive.

The proposed budget is currently under review in the House of Delegates and will soon move to the Senate Budget and Taxation Committee as part of Senate Bill 319 (Budget Bill for Fiscal Year 2026). I reassured attendees that I am committed to fighting for the preservation of DDA funding, which plays a vital role in ensuring dignity and independence for thousands of Marylanders.

Together, we can urge our state leaders to uphold the funding that protects the dignity and independence of individuals with developmental disabilities. I remain proud to stand with this community, advocating for their needs and fighting for a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

On Thursday, February 13th, my staff and I met with many advocates, residents and caregivers who are a part of Maryland's Developmental Disabilities community. It was heartwarming to hear their stories, learn more about their experiences and continue to fight for the rights of the most vulnerable Marylanders.

Photo Credit: The ARC

IN THE DISTRICT:

Legislative District 7 Baltimore & Harford Counties

Congratulations Gregory!

Gregory served as a Student Page this Week from District 7!

Since 1970, Maryland's high school seniors have had the opportunity to learn about the legislative process by serving as student pages during the annual session of the Maryland General Assembly. Each year, 105 pages and 36 alternates are selected from across the State to represent their schools and counties in Annapolis.

Senatorial Scholarship

My 2025 7th Legislative District Senatorial Scholarship is NOW OPEN! Students are eligible to apply who are preparing to attend, or already attending an undergraduate, graduate or professional program.

Confirm you live in Legislative District 7, by visiting: Maryland General Assembly's Website. Fill out the FAFSA Form.

To apply, please visit: My Scholarship Portal

District 7 Night in Annapolis!

Monday, March 24, 2025

6:00pm-8:00pm

11 Bladen Street Miller Senate Office

Building East I & II

Annapolis, MD 21401



I look forward to seeing you in Annapolis! This event is open to the public and free for all! Refreshments to be served.

RSVP Requested: jb.jennings@senate.state.md.us

Google Form

BALTIMORE COUNTY:

Join County Executive Kathy Klausmeier & the Baltimore County Council for the Budget Town Hall:

District 6: February 26, 7:00 pm-8:00 pm at Parkville High School

District 5: March 19, 7:00 pm-8:00 pm at Perry Hall High School

For those unable to attend, all budget town hall meetings will be livestreamed on Baltimore County Government’s YouTube page.

Each event will be held in two parts;

• Community Cabinet Open House: Baltimore County departments will host individual tables where residents are able to engage with department leadership about individual issues and concerns, learn about resources, and share suggestions.
• FY2026 Budget Presentation: Attendees will learn about the county’s budget process and share priorities with Baltimore County Executive Klausmeier and senior leadership.

HARFORD COUNTY:

February is National Cancer Prevention Awareness Month.

Harford County is blessed to be the home of the

Kaufman Cancer Center and Cancer Life Net

The Kaufman Cancer Center (KCC) at UM Upper Chesapeake Health is a full-service cancer center dedicated to delivering the highest quality care to patients. As an affiliate of the University of Maryland Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center, KCC offers a comprehensive range of services, including cancer screenings, rehabilitation, surgery, cardio-oncology, genetic counseling, infusion therapy, medical oncology, and pathology.

For patients requiring surgical intervention, advanced care is available in Bel Air, where procedures can be performed using state-of-the-art robotic technology, minimally invasive techniques, or traditional open surgery, tailored to each patient’s needs. Additionally, to further support patients throughout their treatment journey, UM Upper Chesapeake provides infusion therapy at its dedicated Infusion Center in Aberdeen, ensuring accessible and specialized care close to home.

In addition to its clinical services, KCC is home to Cancer LifeNet (CLN)—a vital support program for patients and the community. Sponsored by the Upper Chesapeake Health Foundation, Chesapeake Cancer Alliance, and generous community donations, CLN provides essential resources to help patients, and their families navigate the challenges of a cancer diagnosis.

Patsy Astarita, LCSW-C, OSW-C, APSHSW-C, Director of Oncology Integrated Health says “Cancer LifeNet is here to support people facing cancer and their loved ones. Our specially trained professionals help you navigate a complicated experience within a complex health care system. Each person’s needs may be unique to them, yet cancer is life changing for everybody. Cancer LifeNet is here to listen, provide information and assistance, and walk alongside you on this journey.”

Through Cancer LifeNet, patients have access to professionally led support groups, including:

• Healing Thru Support – for patients facing any type of cancer, as well as caregivers
• Breast Cancer & Metastatic Breast Cancer Support
• Prostate Cancer Support
• Blood Cancer Support
• Head and Neck Cancer Support

Additional programs include:

• Cancer Thriving and Surviving – helping patients prepare for life beyond cancer
• Tobacco Cessation – support for those looking to quit smoking
• CLIMB – a specialized program to help children cope with a loved one’s cancer diagnosis
• Integrative Medicine & Wellness – offering yoga, meditation, acupuncture, and more.

Cancer LifeNet is a free program available to anyone in Harford or Cecil Counties with a cancer diagnosis. The program provides comprehensive family support, addressing the physical, financial, psychological, and emotional aspects of a cancer journey. The dedicated CLN team offers financial advocacy, education on treatment options, and connections to local resources for transportation, food, and shelter. Additionally, a registered dietitian is available to assist with meal planning and personalized nutrition guidance. This program is entirely philanthropically-funded, ensuring that no one in our region faces cancer alone.

Kaufman Cancer Center is hosting an event called Red Dress, Pink Ribbon next weekend, where experts will share simple things to help you stay healthy and feel well! RSVP is required by calling 1-800-515-0044.

For more information or to access these services, visit Kaufman Cancer Center or Cancer LifeNet today.

Photos Credit: UM Upper Chesapeake (L- Event Details, Top R & Bottom R- robotic surgical machine)

As always, thank you for taking the time to read today's Annapolis Update and please stay tuned for future updates, especially as this Legislative Session becomes increasing more involved.

Sincerely,