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Annapolis Update:
Sunday, April 5, 2026 | | |
Dear neighbor,
With spring underway, it’s a meaningful time of year for many across Maryland. To those celebrating, I want to wish you a Happy Easter and Passover. I hope you’re able to spend some time with family and friends and enjoy the season.
Thank you to everyone who joined me for my Evening in Annapolis. I am grateful for my colleagues, their staff, and the many residents of Harford and Baltimore Counties who made the trip. It was a valuable opportunity to connect, exchange ideas, and discuss the real challenges facing our communities. A special thank you, to Richardson Farms, for catering the event.
As we enter the last week of the 2026 Legislative Session, long floor sessions and committee hearings are expected. Most of our time on the Senate Floor will be centered on debating, amending, and voting.
The end of my email is always my signature. If you don't see that at the bottom, please click, "View Entire Message," to see my full update.
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CHALK POINT POWER PLANT TOUR:
Senator Jack Bailey and I toured the Chalk Point Power Plant in St. Mary's County this week. The power plant has come under new ownership in the last 18 months and increased output from 3% of the year to 20-30% of the year.
Maryland is facing a serious energy crisis, ranking 39th in affordability. Aggressive policies have pushed reliable in-state generation out of the market, forcing us to import energy from other states that are not held to the same standards. As a result, Maryland families are paying the price.
Facilities like Brandon Shores have been sidelined, even while still required for emergency reliability. At the same time, projects tied to these policies threaten communities with new transmission lines cutting through homes, farms, and schools, projects Marylanders have made clear they do not want.
Maryland now relies heavily on the PJM Interconnection, where power plants must compete daily to supply electricity. While this system encourages competition, it creates uncertainty for generators and shifts risk onto them, while ratepayers are left covering the cost of new infrastructure.
At Chalk Point, increased demand shows the need for reliable generation, yet burdensome regulations drive up costs. Starting a steam turbine can cost up to $6 million, compared to $500,000 for alternative start methods. If we want successful business in the state, who follow the rules, employ Marylanders, and build self-reliance back into our market, we need to adjust some expectations, such as RGGI.
A balanced energy mix is essential. While renewables play a role, they are intermittent. Reliable, dispatchable sources like natural gas and nuclear remain critical to meeting demand and maintaining grid stability.
Senate Bill 801 offers a path forward by prioritizing affordability and reliability. It proposes withdrawing from RGGI, eliminating the EmPOWER surcharge, and reforming net metering to better reflect actual costs. These changes would help bring relief to Maryland ratepayers and were proposed during the SB841 2nd Reading debate.
Maryland has faced energy challenges before and adapted. Today, we are at another crossroads. Continuing down the current path will only increase costs and dependence on other states.
Marylanders deserve an energy policy built on independence, affordability, and reliability. The question is whether we act now or wait until the consequences become even more severe.
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Eminent Domain:
This week, landowners were surprised to see U.S. Marshalls escorting utility workers onto their properties in association with the Piedmont Reliability Project. If you're a landowner who has been impacted by the Brandon Shores Retirement Mitigation Plan or the Piedmont Reliability Project, please check your rights by navigating to this video or this newsletter on Eminent Domain, produced by Baltimore County University of Maryland Extension Office.
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Legislation on Energy:
Senate Bill 841 - Utility RELIEF (Reducing Energy Load Inflation for Everyday Families) Act was debated extensively on the Senate floor on April 2, 2026.
This emergency legislation bundles multiple energy proposals into one sweeping package. It establishes new compliance fees, creates additional auction requirements, expands renewable energy mandates, and grants broader authority to the Maryland Energy Administration (MEA) and Public Service Commission (PSC) to set procurement thresholds and minimum megawatt requirements. While the bill claims to focus on affordability, it continues to double down on policies that prioritize mandates over reliability.
The legislation requires MEA and PSC to develop and conduct auctions deemed “cost-effective,” while still advancing aggressive green energy goals. It also outlines penalties for failing to meet project milestones, with compliance fees directed into the Strategic Energy Investment Fund. Existing law prioritizing low- to moderate-income households, defined as those earning up to 150% of the State’s median income, remains in place.
An amendment offered by Senator Hester adds new requirements for data centers, ensuring they bear the cost of the energy generation and infrastructure they require, rather than shifting those burdens onto residential ratepayers. This is a step toward fairness. However, several commonsense amendments were rejected. Proposals to withdraw from the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI), reform the Renewable Energy Portfolio Standard, and eliminate the EmPOWER surcharge were all voted down. Maryland families are being told that layering fees and mandates will somehow lower costs. but that simply does not add up. You cannot reduce energy bills by adding more charges.
I was proud to successfully pass an amendment requiring notification for impacted landowners. Some argued that failing to notify a few households was insignificant. I strongly disagree. When government decisions affect your property, your livelihood, and generational land, transparency is not optional, it is essential.
That amendment passed by a narrow 20–19 vote, with bipartisan support. This issue is especially important in my district, where the Brandon Shores Retirement Mitigation Project directly impacts local communities. I have heard clearly from constituents who feel left in the dark, and I will continue to fight for them.
I also want to recognize Senator Hershey for building bipartisan support behind an amendment to scale back aggressive energy mandates. Unfortunately, that proposal, and other cost-saving measures offered by Republicans/ did not pass. Marylanders deserve an energy policy that puts affordability, reliability, and accountability first. Right now, we are moving in the wrong direction.
I also want to address a troubling moment during floor debate. After Senator Chris West introduced an amendment to withdraw Maryland from RGGI, members of the Senate immediately received an email from a well-funded advocacy group indicating that votes would be “scored” and publicized. That kind of political pressure has no place in the legislative process. Lawmakers should be free to vote based on what is best for their constituents, not under threat from outside organizations attempting to influence outcomes.
At a time when energy costs continue to rise, reducing the burden on Maryland families should be our top priority. I commend Senator West for both raising awareness about the need to withdraw from RGGI and for courageously calling out this unacceptable intimidation.
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E-ZPass:
Spring is in the air and you may be tempted to take to the roads. One thing to remember is E-ZPass tolling. If you have a commuter plan, it turns out several accounts have not utilized their commuter plan to the point where you’re saving money. Make sure you are pausing your commuter plan if you are not making the commutes- such as when you take a vacation, fall ill, or switch jobs.
This chart, from MDTA, showcasing that many Marylanders are not maximizing their commuter plans.
As a reminder: If your tolls have not been sent to CCU, you still have options:
- Open an E-ZPass account to reduce tolls from video rates to standard rates and avoid future fees
- Enroll in a payment plan to lower penalties, make monthly payments, and lift registration holds
To get started, contact MDTA at EZPassTollHelp@mdta.state.md.us. This is about fairness, holding people accountable without trapping working Marylanders in unpayable debt. If this process does not work appropriately, please let me know so that I can follow up with MDTA.
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Legislation on the Move:
Education:
I'm proud to share that Senate Bill 7 - Higher Education - Douglas J. J. Peters Veterans of the Afghanistan and Iraq Conflicts Scholarship - Repeal of Termination Date has passed from the Senate and is moving to the House of Delegates.
This legislation is deeply personal to me. It honors my friend, the late Senator Doug Peters- an Army veteran and dedicated public servant, who led with integrity, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to those who served our country. Doug chaired the Capital Budget Subcommittee as well as the Veterans Caucus and left a lasting mark on this institution. More importantly, he was a trusted colleague and a true friend to all, taken from us far too soon.
This bill removes the termination date for the scholarship that bears his name, ensuring that veterans of the Afghanistan and Iraq conflicts continue to have access to higher education opportunities for years to come.
Doug spent his career fighting for others. This scholarship ensures his legacy lives on, supporting those who served and helping them build a stronger future. I'm honored to cosponsor this bill in support of my friend.
Senate Bill 957 - Education - Career Ladder - National Board Certification Associated Salary Increases clarifies and expands eligibility for salary increases for teachers with National Board Certification under Maryland's career ladder system and applies retroactively for staff who were not included previously.
Senate Bill 532 - Higher Education Institutions - Over-the-Countrer Contraception - Access and Reporting expands access of over-the-counter birth control for community college, and higher education institutions.
House Bill 1438 - State Board of Education - Public High School Graduation Requirements increase state board reviews to every five years, with changes to graduation requirements impacting the cohort entering high school in the school year following the state board approval.
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Taxes:
With April 15 looming for Accountants and independent filers, let's start with some potential tax changes:
I was proud to cosponsor Senate Bill 9 - Sales & Use Tax - Tax-Free-Day - Veteran's Day, which provides a tax-free day on November 11, 2026, for sales to veterans on items less than $2,000.
Another bill I co-sponsored was Senate Bill 356 - Income Tax Credit - Parent of a Stillborn Child, which provides a refundable credit of $1,000 against State income tax for parents who underwent this painful loss.
Senate Bill 980 - Property Tax - Credit for Dwelling House of Disabled Veterans and Surviving Spouses - Alterations allows counties or municipalities to remove income requirements for veterans who utilize this tax credit.
Maryland has a student loan debt relief tax credit. The application period is open from August to October. Senate Bill 805 - Income Tax - Student Loan Debt Relief Tax Credit - Alterations offers Marylanders additional time to repay student loan debt if there are extenuating circumstances.
I am proud to cosponsor Senate Bill 607 - Income Tax - Subtraction Modification for Public Safety Retirement Income - Amount, which increases the amount of subtraction modification that public safety employees can claim from $15,000 to $20,000.
I'm a proud cosponsor of Senate Bill 262 - Income Tax - Subtraction Modification for Classroom Supplies Purchased by Teachers - Alterations, which enables pre-school teachers to also utilize the income tax subtraction modification for classroom supplies.
House Bill 1330 - Homeowners Property Tax Credit - Year-Round Application enables homeowners’ to apply for the homeowners’ property tax credit year-round, rather than during a limited period of time.
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STATE HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION CONTINUES I-695 PART-TIME SHOULDER USE PROJECT IN BALTIMORE COUNTY
The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration is moving forward with a major improvement project along I-695 from I-70 to MD 43. This effort is designed to reduce congestion, improve safety, and provide more reliable travel times for the thousands of Marylanders who depend on the Beltway each day.
As construction progresses, drivers should expect periodic lane closures during off-peak hours, reduced speed limits in active work zones, and continued use of automated speed enforcement to protect both workers and motorists. While these temporary disruptions may impact travel in the short term, the long-term goal is a safer and more efficient roadway for our community.
This project is expected to continue through late summer 2028. I encourage all residents to stay informed, plan ahead, and use caution when traveling through construction areas.
For updates, maps, and additional information, please visit the SHA website.
Improving our infrastructure is critical to supporting working families, strengthening our economy, and ensuring safe and reliable transportation across our region.
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Volunteer Opportunities:
Harford County Public Library is now accepting applications for teen volunteers to support the Summer Reading Program. If you know a student who enjoys working with children, wants to gain valuable experience, or needs service learning hours, I encourage you to have them apply. Volunteering is a great opportunity that benefits both our young readers and those who serve.
The Volunteer Fire and EMS program in Harford County is unique in the support that it gathers from the community. If you or someone you know is interested in volunteering, check here.
Volunteering at University of Maryland, Upper Chesapeake, is also an option. All forms can be sent via email to uchvolunteer@umm.edu, or you can call 443-643-1725 with any questions. It usually takes 2-3 weeks to fully process the paperwork. For instructions, check here.
Eden Mill has an "Adopt-A-Road" service event on Saturday, May 16 from 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m. at the Eden Mill Nature Center. Consider signing up here. Additional events on the Harford County Catalog include a Bosely Hike, Fish Count session, and Wildflower Walk.
| Firehouse Grain Bin Safety Training Grant: | |
I worked closely with Harford County Emergency Services and the County Executive’s Office to identify the Whiteford Volunteer Fire Company as a strong candidate for Nationwide’s grain bin safety training and equipment grant.
If you know of a department that has the personnel, capacity to house the equipment, and would directly benefit local farmers, I encourage you to submit a nomination here. If you work at a volunteer firehouse and you would like for me to nominate your fire company, please let me know and I will do so.
| Harford County Sheriff's Department: | |
The Harford County Sheriff’s Office is hiring for Correctional Deputies and Law Enforcement Deputy Recruits. HCSO offers generous compensation and benefits. If you are interested in protecting your community and serving for the greater good, consider filling out an application here.
The Sheriff's Office is actively accepting applications for the 2026 Sheriff's Youth Academy. Attendees of the Youth Academy spend five days and four nights at the Harford Glen Environmental Education Center at no cost, are given classroom instruction and hands on activities that encompass a broad spectrum of law enforcement responsibilities. They'll tour various HCSO sites and interact with law enforcement directly. Applications can be found here. This program appears to be built for teenagers rather than elementary or middle schoolers.
The Sheriff's Office urges residents to stay aware of their surroundings and take simple steps to reduce the risk of crime. Remove or conceal valuables from your vehicle and park in well-lit areas whenever possible.
When traveling to unfamiliar or potentially unsafe locations, make sure someone you trust knows where you are. For additional safety tips, visit the Sheriff’s Office website.
| | My office remains ready to serve my constituents, should a need arise. Not sure if you reside in Legislative District 7? Check it out here: Members - Find My Representatives. Navigate to Look Up, and type in your address to see who represents your district and their legislation. As always, feel free to email me on legislation or any personal state-related issues that may arise.
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