$400 Million Just Communities Grant amid State Employment Cuts, E-ZPass Overreach and State Archives Update

Dear Community Members,

We are now several weeks into the implementation of new laws that took effect on June 1, 2025. Among them is Senate Bill 199 – Criminal Procedure – Sexual Assault Exam and Treatment Reimbursement, which was passed unanimously by both chambers, ensures that victims of sexual crimes receive critical medical services without bearing the financial burden. This is a necessary step toward justice and compassion for victims of violent crime.

Unfortunately, not all new laws reflect that same spirit. House Bill 40 - Natural Resources - Fishing Licenses and Stamps - Alterations increases the cost of a senior fishing license from $5 to $12, plus an additional $20 for a trout stamp if they choose to fish for trout. I strongly disagree with the idea that the supermajority should fund their priorities on the backs of our seniors and fishing enthusiasts. These increases may seem minor in Annapolis, but they add up quickly for those living on fixed incomes. Seniors have earned our respect and relief, not new fees as they battle with an increasingly expensive world.

The decision from Governor Moore to veto Senate Bill 177 - Procurement - State Department of Education - Local Food Purchasing Program is deeply disappointing and a setback for both Maryland students and Maryland farmers. Senate Bill 177 unanimously passed the legislature and would have required the Maryland State Department of Education to prioritize purchasing local food from certified Maryland farmers, putting clean, healthy options on our students’ plates while supporting local agriculture and small businesses. At a time when families are asking for more transparency and quality in school meals, this bill offered a commonsense solution that balanced nutrition, economic growth, and local sustainability. Vetoing it not only undermines bipartisan consensus but turns away from an opportunity to invest in our own communities.

More recently, Governor Moore announced a $400 million fund for Just Communities, a targeted group of communities that will improve equity- while cutting away at the existing middle class. Some are calling this a radical redistribution of wealth in Maryland. There is also talks about a $4 million boost to the previously awarded Federal fund to enhance job training for equity at the cost of Marylanders who have been working tirelessly.

Earlier this week, an announcement was made regarding $121 million in cuts to State jobs, something I had called for back in February. On Tuesday, the Maryland Republican Caucus issued a press released that included a stated from me, saying: "Back in February, I questioned the wisdom of expanding state government while facing a $2.8 billion deficit. I said then, and I repeat now: when you're in a hole, you need to stop digging. The decision to finally enact a hiring freeze and reduce vacant positions is the right one- but it should have happened months ago, before this situation became more urgent." I'm glad he is making this call now. As I told Torrey Snow from WBAL, I don't believe furloughs or lay-offs are actively being discussed with this necessary step.

Maryland Reporter on the Freeze, article below:

Out of Control E-ZPass Fines with Fees Forwarded to Collections, Unable to be Recalled

I’ve heard from far too many constituents who are overwhelmed by tens of thousands of dollars in E-ZPass fines, often without even realizing there was a problem. Just one unpaid toll can trigger a $50 late fee per violation. For example, a single trip to Delaware without an E-ZPass can lead to as much as $400 in penalties.

Once accounts are sent to the Central Collection Unit (CCU), fees skyrocket beyond the original toll and leave working Marylanders with little hope for resolution.

In mid-June, I sent a letter to MDOT Secretary Paul Wiedefeld urging a more balanced, compassionate approach. Yes, E-ZPass tolls need to be paid, however, we should be enforcing tolls fairly, not pushing Marylanders into deep debt.

It is unconscionable to burden Marylanders with excessive fees, then send those debts to collections—without offering a path to recall the debt or enroll in a reasonable payment plan with those outrageous fees waived.

Land Records Access Fee: A Question of Process and Public Trust

This legislative session will be remembered for the historic wave of taxes and fees pushed through by the Democratic supermajority. In the final days, one issue rose to the forefront, the Maryland State Archives’ (MSA) land records fee. I heard from hundreds of Marylanders, individuals, title companies, and small businesses, deeply concerned about the new $0.20 per-record viewing fee. This new fee was projected to generate millions in revenue, with some private businesses facing additional costs of up to approximately $18,000 per year for a service that was once free.

I’ve been actively engaged in opposing this fee from the start. During the Senate Budget & Taxation hearings, I questioned its justification and raised serious concerns about its legality and impact. Ultimately, the Maryland General Assembly never approved the fee, yet the MSA moved forward unilaterally, sidestepping the rulemaking process required under the Administrative Procedure Act (APA). I formally requested an opinion from the Attorney General, which was issued on June 13. That opinion confirmed what we suspected: the MSA must follow the APA’s public process, which includes transparency, public comment, and legislative oversight.

Let me be clear, public records should remain publicly accessible. This backdoor attempt to impose fees without public input or legal authority undermines the trust Marylanders place in their government. If rising storage costs are a concern for the agency, they must go through the same process every other state agency is expected to follow. I will continue to oppose this fee and fight for the transparency and accountability you deserve.

Energy and High Heat

Maryland’s energy companies have established relief funds to help residents struggling with rising utility costs, including a $15 million ratepayer fund for BGE customers who have fallen behind on their energy bills.

Keep an eye out for messages like this from your energy provider, often found in the top bar of their website:

“Air conditioning will be cycled up to 50% from 2 PM to 6 PM on June 24th. To override cycling during the Energy Savings Day, sign in to your BGE account, navigate to ‘My Dashboard,’ and select ‘PeakRewards’ under the ‘Programs’ section. For assistance, call 888-309-PEAK (7325).”

As of June 1, 2025, higher electricity rates took effect due to changes in PJM supply costs. In response, the Maryland Public Service Commission has directed BGE and other providers to shift some of these increased costs to milder months, avoiding the kind of steep winter bills that hit Marylanders hard from January through March of this year.

If you need support, BGE has published a list of resources on their website: bge.com/relief

And most importantly, stay safe in the heat. Dress light, keep blinds and curtains closed during peak sun hours, apply sunscreen, and drink plenty of water. To all those working outdoors this week, I see you and I’m keeping you in my thoughts.

This month has been a busy one, even while I was on military orders in Romania. My dedicated staff continued working remotely with me to serve the people of Legislative District 7.

Lauren attended Parkville’s Police Precinct Update to discuss constituent concerns with officers. She has been hard at work on constituent cases regarding EZ-Pass, Developmental Disabilities Administration and has been meeting the needs of every community member with care and determination.

Rachel, our newest team member, hit the ground running by meeting with residents to discuss local energy issues and support for the disability community in Kingsville. She's been an engaged and thoughtful team member and we are lucky to have had her join our team.

Rebecca collaborated with the Essex-Middle River Civic Community to bring illegal dumping concerns directly to the attention of County Executive Kathy Klausmeier, and was able to retrieve key information for constituents. She also conducted a Legislative Review with Oak Crest MaCCRA, the information is on my Legislation page.

Support your Local Fire Houses, just as they show up for you:

Thank you for your attention to these matters. Your input has been crucial in guiding the time my staff and I spend working for you. Please know that we will continue to serve you in the interim.

Best regards,



Senator J.B. Jennings