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Annapolis Update:
Sunday, March 29, 2026 | | |
Dear Neighbors,
I want to thank everyone who took the time to send kind wishes, messages, and calls for my birthday this week, it truly means a lot. I’m grateful to serve such a thoughtful and supportive community.
It was also great to welcome back baseball with Opening Day for the Baltimore Orioles, and with a win. Moments like these, along with celebrating Maryland Day and Maryland Agriculture Day, are a reminder of what makes our state so special. From our rich history and traditions to our strong agricultural roots, Maryland’s communities continue to be something we can all take pride in, especially here in Baltimore and Harford Counties.
This week, the Secretary of the Maryland Higher Education Commission resigned following ongoing issues within the Commission. This comes after continued concerns regarding oversight, transparency, and overall management. The Commission plays a critical role in coordinating higher education policy and ensuring accountability for taxpayer-funded institutions, making strong and stable leadership essential.
At the same time, we’ve seen behavior on the House floor where a Delegate left during multiple sessions while a statue of Aristotle remained at his desk; raising serious concerns about accountability and representation. Marylanders expect their elected officials to be present, engaged, and accountable for the votes they cast.
This development highlights the need to restore confidence in the Commission and ensure it operates effectively and transparently in the best interest of Maryland students and families. Moving forward, addressing these issues and strengthening oversight will be key.
As you can see, the Maryland Senate GOP put together a clear, easy-to-read graphic highlighting the number of department secretaries who have resigned. Coincidence? I think not.
Unfortunately, my email from last week did not go out. So, today's email is much longer. If you don't see my signature at the end of the page, hit, "Click Here to View Entire Message," or a similar message.
| | I hope you'll join me for my Evening in Annapolis on March 30, 2026 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. with an evening session afterward, which you are welcome to enjoy. | | |
It’s not often that my staff and I get to sit down and have lunch together, so this was a treat. I’m grateful for this team and the great work they do every day. Their dedication keeps everything moving, and I’m lucky to work alongside them.
They even surprised me with a birthday cake and I’m happy to report I still had it in me to blow out both candles! 🎂 Thanks for the great lunch and the laughs. I appreciate you all.
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Each year, the General Assembly is responsible for building balancing Maryland’s state budget. Alongside it is the Budget Reconciliation and Financing Act (BRFA), a technical but critically important bill that makes the adjustments needed to bring the budget into balance.
The simplest way to understand the BRFA is to think about your own household finances. You review your bank statements, identify where spending needs to be reduced, decide where resources must be prioritized, and determine how to pay for essential needs. Sometimes that means tightening your belt. Other times, it means financing something necessary, like a new roof or a reliable vehicle.
The BRFA operates in much the same way. It adjusts spending levels, reallocates funds, and sets the framework for how key priorities will be financed. This year, the Senate took the lead on the budget, with the Budget & Taxation Committee working through the details first, debating provisions, resolving differences, and advancing both the budget and BRFA to the full chamber. The process then continues in the House of Delegates Appropriations Committee. I voted against the BRFA.
This year, Senate Republicans offered several common-sense amendments aimed at restoring fiscal discipline. One proposal a 5% reduction across all government entities, would have generated approximately $500 million in savings. At a time when Maryland faces ongoing deficits, structural shortfalls, and even a credit downgrade, this was a responsible step toward long-term stability.
Unfortunately, these cost-saving measures were rejected. Among the amendments offered by Senate Republicans were:
I am proud to share that my amendment regarding Historic Tags did pass. It allows vehicles aged 25 years or older to qualify for historic tags. While I also introduced separate legislation to grandfather in vehicles previously registered as historic, that bill has not yet been voted on in committee.
Marylanders expect responsible budgeting, one that respects taxpayers, prioritizes core services, and reins in unnecessary spending. I will continue fighting for a more disciplined, transparent, and accountable approach to our state’s finances.
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SENATE FUNDED BOND ITIATIVES FOR DISTRICT 7:
I’m proud to report that I secured Senate funding for key projects across Legislative District 7 - Baltimore & Harford Counties.
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Safe at Home: Protecting Marylanders in Times of Crisis:
Everyone deserves to feel safe, especially those who are rebuilding their lives after experiencing violence or threats. Maryland’s Safe at Home Address Confidentiality Program (ACP), administered by the Secretary of State, provides an important safeguard for individuals who need to keep their location private.
This program allows eligible participants to use a legal substitute address in place of their home, work, or school address. State law requires government agencies and many private entities, including banks and utilities, to accept this substitute address. Mail is securely forwarded at no cost, helping participants maintain privacy without disrupting daily life.
The program is available to survivors of domestic violence, human trafficking, sexual assault, stalking, or harassment, as well as individuals who fear for their safety and guardians protecting vulnerable dependents. Participation lasts for four years and can be renewed, provided program requirements are followed.
For those in difficult and dangerous situations, this program offers a practical path to greater security and peace of mind. Taking steps to protect your personal information can make all the difference. Learn more or apply: here; email: safe.athome@maryland.gov; or call: 410-260-3875.
If you or someone you know may benefit from this program, I encourage you to explore this resource and take advantage of the protections it offers. No one should have to live in fear, and Maryland has tools in place to help. Here is a list of Domestic Violence Facilities.
Local:
Baltimore County (Northern/Central): TurnAround Inc can be reached at: 410-377-8111, Hotline: 410-828-6390, and you can check out the website for TurnAround, here: http://www.turnaroundinc.org/
Baltimore County: (East): Family Crisis Center of Baltimore County, Inc. can be reached at 410-285-4357 or the Hotline: 410-828-6390 and can be found here: https://www.familycrisiscenter.net/
SARC: Sexual Assault/Spouse Abuse Resource Center, Inc. can be reached at:
Harford: 410-836-8431 Baltimore County: 410-879-3486
https://www.sarc-maryland.org/
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Senate Bills - Crossed Over to the House:
On the 69th day of the session, this year, Monday, March 23, 2026, Crossover Day takes place. This marks the deadline for bills to pass out of their original chamber and move to the opposite chamber for the best chance of passing. If the opposite chamber makes any amendments, the bill is then returned to the original chamber for consideration of those changes.
We have felt a bit of reprieve following Crossover Day, with more than 400 Senate Bills moving to the House of Delegates for the next steps of the legislative process and approximately 600 House Bills crossing over to the Senate.
The following bills have passed the Senate and are now before the House of Delegates for consideration:
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PROPERTY & HOUSING:
Senate Bill 389 - Land Use - Transit-Oriented Development - Alterations (Maryland Transit and Housing Opportunity Act) automatically designates certain transit-oriented developments as “enterprise zones.” It aims to encourage housing and mixed-use development near transit hubs, maximizing the use of existing infrastructure.
Senate BIll 651 - Real Property- Transfer - On - Death - Establishment allows property owners to pass their real estate directly to a named beneficiary after death without going through probate. The bill explains how to create, change, and record these deeds, provides sample forms, and exempts them from certain transfer taxes. It also applies to some previously created deeds for individuals who pass away after the law takes effect.
I opposed Senate Bill 335 - Landlord and Tenant - Discrimination in Housing for Income-Based Housing Subsidies and Positive Rental History Reporting. This bill limits landlords from considering a tenant’s credit history, credit score, or income when using a housing subsidy. By labeling these standard screening practices as discriminatory, the bill restricts landlords’ ability to assess financial risk.
I also opposed Senate Bill 937 - Landlord and Tenant - Residential Leases - Prospective Tenant Criminal History Records Check (Maryland Fair Chance Housing Act) which limits landlords’ ability to review a tenant’s criminal history, forcing decisions without full information. It also creates new legal risks by treating violations as consumer protection offenses, further restricting landlords’ ability to screen tenants and protect their property.
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SUPPORT FOR THOSE WHO SERVE:
Senate Bill 243 - Uniformed Services Spouses Act also passed unanimously. This legislation updates the definition of an “eligible veteran” to include those who received an “other than dishonorable” discharge or a certificate of satisfactory service. It further strengthens workforce and family support by expanding employment provisions and extending additional preferences to spouses of eligible veterans in both education and public utility hiring. Supporting our service members and their families must remain a priority.
Senate Bill 516 - Law Enforcement - Protective Body Armor - Requirements and Reporting requires that every Maryland law enforcement officer be equipped with up-to-date, certified body armor before performing any non-administrative duties. Ensuring the safety of those who serve on the front lines is not optional, it’s essential.
Senate Bill 745 - Police Training - Autism and Dementia (LEAD Act of 2026), introduced by Senator McKay, has now crossed over to the House of Delegates. This is a meaningful, forward-looking bill that strengthens how law enforcement interacts with individuals facing autism and dementia. These situations require both awareness and compassion, and I’m confident our officers will meet that responsibility.
Senate Bill 445 - Employment Standards - Firefighters - Payment of Wages and Payroll Information ensures that firefighters are properly compensated for their time, requiring overtime pay for hours worked beyond 168 hours in a 28-day period. This is about fairness, accountability, and respecting the demanding work these professionals perform every day.
As the sponsor of Senate Bill 579 - Counties – No–Cost Preventive Cancer Screenings for Volunteer and Retired Volunteer Firefighters, I’m proud to report that the bill passed the Senate unanimously. This legislation ensures that volunteer firefighters with five years of LOSAP credits, as well as retired volunteer firefighters, have access to free cancer screenings. These men and women put their lives on the line for our communities; this is a commonsense step to protect those who protect us. I’m grateful for the strong bipartisan support behind this effort.
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TECHNOLOGY:
Senate Bill 932 - Consumer Protection - Social Media Platforms - Display of User Location improves transparency and online safety by helping users verify who they’re interacting with and reducing scams, impersonation, and fake accounts.
I proudly sponsored Senate Bill 581 - Department of Information Technology - Statewide Information Technology Master Plan - Reporting. Maryland spends hundreds of millions on IT systems, yet too often projects run over budget, fall behind schedule, or fail to deliver. This bill ensures there is a clear plan, and more importantly, that the State is held accountable for following it. This bill requires planning and oversight.
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BUSINESS:
Senate Bill 94 - Commercial Law - Earned Wage Access - Revisions prevents lenders from accepting tips.
Senate Bill 300 - Economic Development - Rural Readiness Program and Rural Maryland Capacity Building Fund - Establishment creates a new state program to strengthen rural communities’ ability to grow economically and plan for the future.e.
I proudly sponsored Senate Bill 582 - Consumer Protection - Unsolicited Loans, which prevents banks from sending out a blank check. This is particularly helpful for vulnerable Marylanders, who may not know what they're signing.
Senate Bill 388 - Economic Development Delivering Economic Competitiveness and Advancing Development Efforts (DECADE) Act makes changes to Maryland’s economic development programs by renaming and restructuring funding accounts, updating how certain funds are used, and adjusting tax credits and incentives. It also modifies eligibility rules, extends or revises several tax credit programs, and changes how certain business incentives, particularly for technology, film, and biotech, are administered.
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ENERGY:
Senate Bill 270 - Public Service Commission - Full Costs and Benefits Analysis of Sources of Electricity Generation passed unanimously and requires a comprehensive, transparent review of energy sources. This will help ensure the Public Service Commission advances projects that are practical, reliable, and cost-effective for Marylanders, ultimately driving down utility costs for ratepayers.
Despite Republican opposition, Senate Bill 23 - Green and Renewable Energy Efficiency for Nonprofits (GREEN) Loan Program and Fund - Establishment also passed, despite Republican opposition.
My position remains clear: energy policy must prioritize affordability and reliability first. Maryland families and small businesses need real relief from rising energy costs, not additional programs that risk driving rates even higher.
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LAW ENFORCEMENT:
Senate Bill 984 - Correctional Service - Private Detention Facilities - Zoning Requirement prohibits the State or local governments from approving private immigration detention facilities unless certain zoning requirements are met. It establishes penalties for violations, allows the Attorney General to enforce the law, and applies the restrictions retroactively. I opposed this bill because it restricts local and state flexibility, as well as applies retroactively, raising legal and fairness concerns while increasing the risk of litigation.
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CORRECTIONS:
Senate Bill 984 - Correctional Service - Private Detention Facilities - Zoning Requirement prohibits the State or local governments from approving private immigration detention facilities unless certain zoning requirements are met. It establishes penalties for violations, allows the Attorney General to enforce the law, and applies the restrictions retroactively. I opposed this bill because it restricts local and state flexibility, as well as applies retroactively, raising legal and fairness concerns while increasing the risk of litigation.
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VEHICLES:
Senate Bill 111 - Vehicle Laws - Out-of-State Vehicles - Improper Registration passed unanimously in the Senate. This commonsense bill gives law enforcement clearer authority to address Maryland residents who improperly use out-of-state tags, including Virginia registrations, to avoid legal requirements.
This is about fairness. Maryland drivers who follow the rules shouldn’t be left covering the costs while others use loopholes to avoid taxes, fees, and accountability. This bill helps ensure consistent enforcement and a level playing field.
The chart above shows the volume of E-ZPass violations tied to Virginia tagholders, highlighting the need for stronger enforcement and compliance. The Maryland Vehicle Administration has sent out more than 58,000 letters to Marylanders who own Virginia tags, who statistically hold a higher percentage of accidents and unpaid parking violations.
I have proposed additional laws to lower the cost of vehicle ownership, which in my district is not a luxury, but often a critical pathway to earning a paycheck.
Senate Bill 487 - Motor Vehicles - Speed Monitoring Systems - Safety Corridors (Vulnerable Road User Protection Act of 2026) allows the State Highway Administration (SHA) to install and operate speed cameras in designated “safety corridors” and permits local governments to do the same with approval. I opposed this bill because speed cameras often create bottlenecks, causing drivers to brake suddenly as they approach and then speed back up once they pass.
| The following bills have passed the House of Delegates
and are now before the Senate for consideration: | |
House Bill 172 - Municipalities - Enforcement Officers - Body-Worn Cameras allows local governments to authorize municipal enforcement officers, like code enforcement or parking officials, to wear body cameras while performing their duties. It expands legal definitions to permit recording, requires municipalities to establish and publish policies for camera use, and sets guidelines similar to those used for law enforcement.
House Bill 172 will be heard in the Senate Judicial Proceedings Committee on March 31 at 1:00 p.m.
House BIll 492 - Courtroom Security - Minimum Adequate Security Standard sets minimum security staffing rules for courthouses, requiring more officers during proceedings, especially in higher-risk situations.
This aligns with my legislation to ensure School Resource Officers (SROs) are properly equipped to respond to threats in our schools. Both efforts are rooted in the same principle, people are safer when protected by an armed officer.
Marylanders deserve to feel safe in the courtroom, classroom, and their communities. Sadly, my SRO bill did not advance from the Senate to the House.
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House Bll 295 - Gaming - Prohibition on Interactive Games and revenue from Illegal Markets cracks down on unregulated online gaming by banning certain platforms, requiring disclosures of ties to illegal markets, and allowing the state to deny or revoke licenses. The bill also establishes misdemeanor penalties, including fines of up to $100,000 and up to 3 years of imprisonment.
House Bill 295 will be heard in the Senate Budget & Taxation Committee on April 1st at 1:00pm.
House BIll 382 - Commercial Law - Broadband Access - Low-Income Consumer Programs (Maryland Broadband Opportunity and Fairness Act) requires internet providers to offer discounted service to low-income households, placing additional mandates on private companies.
This bill shifts costs and regulatory burdens onto providers, which could lead to higher prices for other consumers and discourage investment in broadband infrastructure.
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E-ZPass Collections and why Senate Bill 956 matters:
Too many Marylanders are opening their mail to find that a minor toll, often just a few dollars, has turned into a massive bill. Without a transponder, drivers are charged a higher video toll rate plus a fee for each violation. A trip through the tunnel that should cost $6 can quickly become $40 or more. With $25 added per violation, these costs escalate fast, leading to suspended registrations and collections that hit working families the hardest.
That’s why I introduced Senate Bill 956 - Maryland Transportation Authority- Video Tolls - Collection. This legislation creates a fair, commonsense path to resolve toll debt and help Marylanders get back into compliance, without being buried under excessive penalties.
The bill hasn't been brought to a vote in Committee, but should it miraculously pass today, then survive a vote in both sessions, this would change the lives of many Marylanders. The current system sends toll revenue back to MDTA, pays a 17% collection fee to CCU, and funnels the rest into the General Fund. Maryland should not rely on punitive fees as a revenue stream. We need a system that is fair, transparent, and focused on getting people back on track, not pushing them further behind.
This fair path to resolve toll debt and bring people back into compliance is a critical step in the right direction.
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E-ZPASS VIDEO TOLLS AND FEES:
REDUCING THE COST BEFORE GOING TO CCU:
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.
| | OUT AND ABOUT IN ANNAPOLIS | | | | |
Earlier this week, I had the opportunity to spend time with Wellspring of Life Farm, INC. and Executive Director Dawn Leung as they brought some very special guests to the State House.
From ponies and goats to dogs, these are not just pets, they are service animals playing a critical role in supporting our veterans. Through hands-on interaction and therapy, they help address challenges like PTSD, anxiety, and the transition back to civilian life.
It was incredible to see firsthand the impact these animals have and to hear how lives are being changed every day through this work.
In 2023, I was able to secure funding for Wellspring of Life Farm to support their mission of serving those who have served us. Programs like this make a real difference, and I’m grateful for the work Dawn and her team are doing to care for our veterans in such a meaningful way.
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I was honored to attend the Developmental Disabilities Rally yesterday alongside so many dedicated advocates, families, providers, and individuals who rely on these critical services every day.
It was incredibly powerful to hear directly from those impacted, people sharing their stories, their challenges, and their hopes for a stronger, more supportive system. Events like this are an important reminder that behind every policy decision are real people who depend on us to get it right.
I’m grateful to everyone who took the time to show up, speak out, and advocate for meaningful change. Your voices matter, and they are being heard.
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BEECH LEAF DISEASE:
This interim, the Cromwell Valley Park Council invited us to review Beech Leaf Disease (BLD) and advocate to Secretary Atticks at the Department of Agriculture, who promptly scheduled an assessment of affected trees in the park.
BLD is caused by a microscopic nematode that damages beech tree leaves, often identified by dark green banding between veins. While symptoms may appear subtle early on, the disease progresses quickly, weakening trees and often leading to death. American beech trees are vital to our ecosystem, supporting wildlife and forest health, making this a growing concern across Maryland and the eastern United States.
There is no large-scale forest solution yet, but individual trees may be treated if caught early. I encourage residents to stay informed, monitor their trees, and contact their local UMD Extension office with concerns.
If there are ever local concerns that require assistance, please feel free to reach out to the office.
| | REMINDER: SCHOLARSHIP DEADLINE ON APRIL 1, 2026 | | |
Congratulations to Mountain Christian Church on the groundbreaking of the Parkville The Epicenter!
While I was on the Senate floor voting and unable to attend in person, I was proud to be represented by my friend and constituent, James Rider, who presented a citation and Maryland flag on my behalf to commemorate this exciting milestone.
Mountain Christian Church continues to make a lasting impact across our state. Through their campuses, outreach programs, and commitment to serving others, they provide support to families, invest in communities, and create spaces where people can grow in faith and fellowship. Their expansion into Parkville is another example of that mission in action.
I’m proud to represent a district where so many of my constituents are part of the Mountain Christian Church community. The work they do, both inside and outside their walls, truly makes a difference in the lives of so many.
Wishing continued success as this new chapter begins in Parkville!
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The construction of the Honeygo Regional Veterans Memorial will be starting soon as their fundraising goals have nearly been met.
In recent years, I was proud to secure funding to support this effort. I have always and will always be a strong supporter of our armed forces, like many of you.
Show your support to our veterans for just $250 by purchasing an engraved walkway brick. You can order one here: honeygoregionalveteransmemorial.org. You can add your name or a loved veteran's name to it.
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Attention Baltimore County Residents and Community Leaders:
The Community Planning Institute Applications are open from now until April 8.
During the course, community members analyze assets and resources within their community in a way that mimics a planner. This comprehensive course empowers community members with information about the Baltimore County Department of Planning process, Baltimore County Department of Economic and Workforce Development mission to support business, Historic designations, and Baltimore County's goals in relation to the 2030 Master Plan.
Time: Tuesdays 6:30 – 8:30PM starting on May 12, ending on June 9; Location: 305 Washington Street, Towson, Maryland (must attend all)
To apply, click HERE, and if you have any questions, please email: CPI@BaltimoreCountyMd.gov
| | Harford Land Trust is running a native and pollinator plant sale, which is open to the public. You can shop expertly curated essential plants for a pollinator and native garden. Sales close on April 27 with pick up on May 2nd at the Harford County Equestrian Center. | |
Congratulations to the Fallston High School Future Business Leaders of America team for their outstanding performance at the Maryland FBLA Leadership Conference.
I am proud to recognize:
- Logan Weiss – 1st Place, Agribusiness
- Tyler Mangold – 2nd Place, Introduction to Retail & Merchandising and 2nd Place, Hospitality & Event Management
- Liam Delaney – 3rd Place, Computer Problem Solving
With their Top 4 finishes, Logan, Tyler, and Liam have earned the opportunity to compete at the National FBLA Leadership Conference in San Antonio, Texas.
Additional recognitions goes to:
- Brynn Seymour – 5th Place, Impromptu Speaking
- Anna Newman – 6th Place, Journalism
These students represent the very best of hard work, discipline, and leadership. Maryland’s future is bright because of them.
If you have a success or fundraiser to share, please do so, by emailing me at jb.jennings@senate.maryland.gov.
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If you're looking for an internship opportunity, Otter Point Creek Alliance is seeking a summer research intern. Additional opportunities are available on the website, including programs, volunteer, and research opportunities.
Mission: "The Otter Point Creek Alliance is a nonprofit organization, created in 1996, dedicated to the support of the research, education, and conservation goals of the Otter Point Creek Component of the Chesapeake Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve in Maryland."
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The Town of Bel Air has announced an upcoming community update that residents should be aware of, highlighting continued efforts to improve local infrastructure and enhance quality of life. Strong communities are clean, safe, and full of that community’s culture. If you own a historic property, consider making upgrades this year and benefit from a tax credit.
The Town of Bel Air has open real estate that’s been mapped out! If you’re in the market for a new set up, consider visiting here. While not in district, it’s close enough that a small business owner in district could set up shop close-by.
| | 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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