Dear Friends,
Last week, we had the opportunity to participate in a joint session of the General Assembly for the Governor’s State of the State address, during which he outlined his legislative agenda. He emphasized the need for legislative solutions to address the affordability challenges facing Marylanders as they struggle to pay for food, housing, and health care, and he expressed his frustration with the current state of redistricting.
As you may be aware, the Governor and the House have supported a redistricting plan in direct response to the President’s decision to encourage Republican-led states to pursue mid-cycle redistricting in an effort to forestall expected Democratic gains in the midterm elections. For a variety of reasons—including the unique aspects of Maryland’s redistricting history, constitutional requirements, and timing—the Senate President has been clear in his opposition to a mid-cycle effort to redraw congressional maps. I have stated publicly that I would support a new map if given the opportunity to vote on one; however, it appears highly unlikely that the Senate will consider the House bill.
Another important focus of the Governor’s speech—and of our legislative activity during these first few weeks of session—has been the overreach of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency. You can read more about bills that directly respond to ICE activity across the country, as well as here in Maryland, in the Legislative Update section below.
We are now nearly one-third of the way through the session, and bill hearings and budget hearings are fully underway. As we do year-round, we continue working to resolve constituents’ issues with state agencies. Recently, we have helped secure heat for a freezing home where a resident was ill; obtain the return of delayed funds to taxpayers; and ensure that children struggling with mental illness receive the medications they depend on when insurance barriers delay their doctors’ prescribed treatment. These are just a few examples of how we serve our community. If we can be of assistance to you, please do not hesitate to reach out. And be sure to follow us on social media for regular and timely updates on our legislative agenda.
Shelly L. Hettleman
Senator, District 11
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