Delegate Jon S. Cardin
District 11, Baltimore County
Blog
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Week 8 Annapolis Report 2010
Posted Mar 06 at 4 PM
Thursday was my busiest day of the 2010 legislative session thus far. I had four bills before the Ways and Means Committee. Two bills were in support of military groups in the 11th District. The other two were to promote the health of Maryland citizens.
The first bill supports the members of the Maryland Defense Force, which is headquartered in Pikesville, with a tax deduction. This civil group of volunteers assists and supplements the Maryland National Guard. Its work is particularly important when units from Maryland are deployed either out of state or overseas. The second bill, cross-filed by Sen. Bobby Zirkin, ensures that the Jewish War Veterans Organizations receive equal tax treatment under Maryland law as other veterans' organizations. The attributes of both items of legislation appear to resonate well in my committee.
The Health and Fitness Act of 2010 encourages Marylanders to improve their personal health. We all know the old saying "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." In these days of ever increasing health costs and ever tightening state and personal budgets, maintaining health is a critical part of reducing the cost of health care in our state and nation. President Obama has made healthcare a priority. This bill does just that. With ever-increasing healthcare costs because of obesity, diabetes and other ailments, the Coalition for a Healthy Maryland, a group of businesses, government agencies, individuals and organizations, says that we cannot afford to do nothing.
Finally, I proposed legislation to encourage military medical personnel to transition into workforce shortage areas in civilian life through a military pension exclusion. There is a shortage of trained medical technicians in our country and Maryland wants to attract these skilled people to work in our state. This bill will do just that.
With the continuing economic difficulties being faced by some in our community, I thought it was important to highlight an event for constituents concerned about the possibility of home foreclosure and other mortgage issues. You are invited to a public information session to be held from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Thursday, March 18, 2010, at the Randallstown Community Center, 3505 Resource Drive.
Representatives from government agencies and non-profit organizations will be on hand at the event, sponsored by the Baltimore County Office of Community Conservation. Representatives from Fannie Mae will discuss foreclosure solutions for homeowners. Representatives from the Federal Housing Administration will discuss federal government mortgage workout solutions.
The We Are Family Community Development Corporation will discuss pro-active steps in avoiding foreclosure, ways to intervene in the foreclosure process and the role of the housing counselor. The Community Law Center will offer guidance on how to avoid foreclosure scams and financial literacy.
I enjoyed visiting this week with constituents from the Baltimore Jewish Council's Advocacy Night, Maryland Bankers Association, Leadership Baltimore County, UMB Social Work students, and attending the MPILP Auction at UMB Law.
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Week 7 Annapolis Report 2010
Posted Feb 26 at 5 PM
We heard dozens of bills this week in the Ways and Means Committee, including maintenance of effort (education) and combined reporting (taxes), many generating a wide array of support and opposition. Given the sheer numbers of issues on our plate, I will describe just one with which I have been involved: legislation to make our roads safer for bicyclists, pedestrians and motorists.
I introduced House Bill 461 to promote bicycle safety. The intent of this bill is to provide a safe and enjoyable environment for both bicyclists and drivers on Maryland’s roads and bicycle paths. The bill requires that a motor vehicle passing a bicyclist or pedestrian give the rider at least a three-foot buffer of clearance. It would also require that cars turning across a marked bicycle lane give the cyclist the right of way. Additionally, the bill clarifies that the driver of a motor vehicle would not be at fault if the bicyclist infringes upon the three-foot buffer or fails to maintain a steady course.
By clarifying and codifying the responsibilities of both bicyclists and motorists operating on Maryland’s roadways, this bill will foster a safe environment for bicyclists to recreate and travel. The bill’s sponsors also anticipate that the three-foot minimum will be an easy standard for both cyclists and motorists to remember, and one that reinforces the principles suggested in the Maryland Driver’s Education handbook. Too many unnecessary accidents have occurred from lack of due care, and this clarifying standard will make Maryland one of the nation’s bike-friendliest states.
This week I was honored to host a delegation of legislators from Japan visiting with the American Council of Young Political Leaders (ACYPL), a bipartisan, non-profit educational exchange organization. AcYPL is dedicated to fostering relations between the next generation of political leaders in the United States and their counterparts around the world. It is partially funded by a grant from the U.S. Department of State, and I am honored to serve on its board.
Each year ACYPL sends young Americans (ages 25-40) on political study tours abroad and organizes reciprocal visits to the United States. Participants learn diplomatic skills, engage in dialogue on bilateral issues and forge professional relationships through the unique access they receive to the political leadership of the nations they visit.
The Japanese delegation visited Annapolis as part of their two-week visit in the United States. While in Annapolis, they met with numerous state leaders including House Speaker Michael Busch, Senate President Mike Miller, House Majority Leader Kumar Barve and House Minority Leader Tony O’Donnell. Among the speakers were Del. Melony Griffith, Del. Joseph Bartlett, and Earl Adams, Chief of Staff for Lt. Gov. Anthony Brown, all of whom visited Japan with ACYPL in previous years.
I am looking forward to seeing many of my constituents at the Baltimore Jewish Council’s Advocacy Night on Tuesday, March 2, 2010 from 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM. For more information contact cpleeter@baltjc.org.
I enjoyed visiting this week with constituents from the Roland Park Country School fifth grade, NASA, Humane Society, UMB School of Nursing, League of Women Voters, Community Assistance Network, and CCBC.
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Week 6 Annapolis Report 2010
Posted Feb 19 at 12 PM
After the snow, the Maryland General Assembly is again focusing on the economic needs of the citizens of our district and our state. I want to highlight a few examples of the efforts currently underway to strengthen our state's economy.
Maryland State Treasurer Nancy K. Kopp announced that all three bond rating agencies have affirmed the State's strong Triple AAA bond rating in preparation for the upcoming sale of approximately $600 million of General Obligation bonds on Wednesday, February 24, at the Board of Public Works meeting. The bond sale will include the sale of $200 million of refunding bonds to refinance higher cost debt with lower interest rates. Current projections call for about $6 million in present value savings from the refunding, subject to change due to market conditions.
In addition to the refunding, the State expects to issue $400 million to finance necessary capital projects, such as schools, community colleges, university projects and hospitals. The bonds will be issued as taxable Build America Bonds, which were authorized by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. The State will receive a federal subsidy of 35 percent of the interest cost.
Governor Martin O'Malley testified this week on important "foreclosure" legislation that would give every Maryland family facing foreclosure the legal right to mediation with the lender. The bill ensures that those homeowners who are eligible for loan modifications are able to obtain them, and that others can pursue alternatives to avoid foreclosure or lessen its harmful impact.
On Thursday night, Delegate Eric Bromwell convened a special hearing of the Baltimore County Delegation with the Baltimore County Public School Board and Superintendent to discuss the concerns that have been raised over the Articulated Instruction Module (AIM). At the hearing we also raised issues of personnel changes and loss of teaching positions in the magnet program. If nothing else, the Superintendent and Board heard the concerns that have been relayed to us by hundreds of constituents. The message to Dr. Joe Hairston was loud and clear that his handling of AIM is not earning the school system high marks with parents and teachers. To learn more, follow this link to an article in the Baltimore Sun.
I am looking forward to seeing many of my constituents in at the Baltimore Jewish Council's Advocacy Night in Annapolis on Tuesday, March 2, 2010, from 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM. I look forward to talking with you and I hope that you can stay and attend the House of Delegates session immediately following the event. For more information contact Chana Pleeter at cpleeter@baltjc.org.
I enjoyed visiting this week with constituents from the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, Anesthesiologists and Emergency Physicians, pharmacy students and faculty from the Carver Center Foundation, University of Maryland and the College of Notre Dame, State Farm, Maryland Pest Control Companies, the MD Association for Justice, the Printing and Graphics Association, the Maryland School for the Blind, the Multiple Sclerosis Society, HIMMS, and the Hemophilia Foundation.
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Week 5 Annapolis Report 2010
Posted Feb 11 at 4 PM
This week the weather has impacted all aspects of Maryland. The back-to-back snowstorms have severely curtailed the ability of all citizens to go about their daily lives.
Nevertheless, the snow also has brought out the best in many of us. Neighbors helped neighbors dig out driveways, snow-covered cars and sidewalks. The people assisting other community members who need help during these difficult weather conditions are to be commended.
In spite of the snow, we have managed to have our daily sessions and try our best to keep movement in Annapolis. I am looking forward to a warm spell to melt the snow as we will be scheduling the hearings for election law bills in the coming weeks. If there is one piece of positive news due to the snow, it is that the Board of Public Works had to postpone its vote on a supplemental appropriation on the touch screen voting systems. After our briefing with the State Board, there are questions as to whether its contract for the voting system is fraught with unnecessary expenses. I am hopeful that we can get to the bottom of this so that the Board of Public Works has full information before approving more spending and before any unfavorable contracts are accepted.
Again, I want to thank all of the men and women in our state and county governments who have worked tirelessly to plow our streets, restore electrical service, operate public transportation and dig out our schools. A big thank you to the uniformed men and women of the police department, fire department, ambulance service, and National Guard who have gone above and beyond to keep us safe and rescue those in need.
Thank you to the doctors, nurses and support staff at our hospitals who stayed on the job as long as was necessary until replacement staff could make it in to care for our sick and injured. Finally, to everyone else who worked through the storm or simply heeded the call to stay at home and keep the roads clear, your efforts, no matter how large or small, contributed to the statewide effort to overcome the unprecedented "Snowmageddon" that we have experienced during the past week.
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Week 4 Annapolis Report 2010
Posted Feb 11 at 4 PM
The highlight of the week in Annapolis was Governor Martin O'Malley delivering the State of the State address on Tuesday. I support the Governor's emphasis on job creation through leveraging Maryland's Innovation Economy. Harnessing the emerging life sciences, bio-tech, high-tech, clean-tech, green-tech and cyber-security technologies to form the engine of our economy into the next century is a recipe for creating long-term job opportunities for Maryland families.
It was also notable to learn recently that during the O'Malley-Brown Administration we have cut the budget by a total of $5.6 billion and cut 3,500 state positions in order to meet the fiscal challenges facing our state and our country. These significant savings demonstrate the commitment of the current administration and your elected representatives in the Maryland General Assembly to demonstrate fiscal responsibility and live within the spending affordability limits of our state.
I also wanted to draw attention to two bills I am sponsoring in support of military organizations based in our district. I am proud to say that these bills are co-sponsored in the House of Delegates by Delegate Dan Morhaim and Delegate Dana Stein and that the lead sponsor in the Senate is our Senator Bobby Zirkin.
The first bill is in support of the Maryland Defense Force which is headquartered in Pikesville. This civilian group of volunteers provides valuable support to the Maryland National Guard, especially when units from Maryland are deployed either out of state or overseas. To learn more about the organization follow this link http://mddf.maryland.gov/index.aspx.
The other bill is in support of Jewish War Veterans Organizations to ensure that they receive equal tax treatment under Maryland law as other veterans' organizations. To learn more about their activities follow this link http://jwv-md.us/167.htm.
I want to strongly encourage you to learn about the energy-efficient and environmentally-friendly cars of tomorrow by seeing Michael Granoff speak at Towson University on February 8 at 7:00pm in the College of Liberal Arts Building (CLA) Room 4110. Michael Granoff is an energy innovator who is working to create Israel's nationwide infrastructure for electric cars. Thank you to the event sponsors: the Baltimore Hebrew Institute and Baltimore Zionist District. Michael and I went to college together at Tufts University and his organization is doing amazing work. To RSVP and for more information on cost and free parking please call Michelle Taylor 410-704-7118 or email mtaylor@towson.edu.
On Saturday, January 30, I participated in the Maryland Special Olympics Polar Bear Plunge. It was snowy and cold but that just added to the festive atmosphere. I want to especially recognize the Maryland State Police officers and their families for all of the volunteer efforts that help make this annual event a huge success for the Special Olympics.
I had the opportunity to meet with a number of groups this week to learn about my constituents' views on important issues. It was great to meet with the Maryland Nurses Association, Catholic Charities, the Maryland Amusement and Music Operators, podiatrists, and AAA.
Finally, at the end of the month, I will be hosting a group of 10 Japanese legislators coming to Maryland, among other states, to learn about our governmental procedures. This group is part of the American Council of Young Political Leaders, a bi-partisan 501(C)(3) partially funded by a grant from the Department of State. I look forward to their visit to Annapolis.
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Week 3 Annapolis Report 2010
Posted Feb 11 at 4 PM
As a legislator, one of my priorities is to listen to my constituents and recognize the concerns that they are facing every day. It is clear to me that creating and maintaining jobs are critical issues for families in our Northwest Baltimore County community and throughout our state.
While Maryland is faring better than most states in our nation (over 2% lower than the national average) that matters little to the person who is struggling to find employment. Putting people back to work is job #1 this session.
I am proud to co-sponsor Governor O'Malley's Job Creation Tax Credit proposal as a means to create new jobs in our state. This legislation provides for a business to receive a $3,000 credit for every unemployed Marylander that it hires. Once this program is fully implemented, it will account for up to 6,700 Marylanders returning to work.
The Governor's proposals are aimed at strengthening small businesses. Baltimore County's small businesses are an important engine for creating jobs to bring our region through the national recession. By supporting these entrepreneurs, our state is supporting the big business of tomorrow.
Your state government also recognizes that the "green economy" is the next frontier for job creation. America aims to be the leader of this green revolution and Maryland is poised to be the leading state in our nation. I am also a co-sponsor of the tax credit for the next generation of electric vehicles, of which the transmissions will be built right here in Baltimore County.
To the same ends, I support the proposal to accelerate Maryland's Solar Renewable Portfolio Standards requirements, which I believe will result in more residential and commercial solar installation - more jobs, more energy savings. This in turn will create new, skilled employment opportunities in this green industry. In addition, I support the reauthorization of the Renewable Energy Production tax credit and legislation to enhance the feasibility of the production of off-shore wind energy in Maryland.
By supporting all of these measures I am confident that we will create high paying, high-tech jobs in the short term that will lead to lasting long term benefits for our economy and our environment.
On Saturday, January 30, I will jump into the Chesapeake at the Maryland Special Olympics Polar Bear Plunge. I look forward to joining some of you in the water at Sandy Point State Park for this terrific annual event. For those not plunging, I would be honored if you contacted my office to learn how to sponsor the plunge.
I had the opportunity to meet with a number of groups this week to learn about my constituents' views on important issues. It was great to meet with Maryland's Clerks of the Court, Registers of Wills, Chiefs of Police, Sheriffs and Fireman. I also visited with realtors, MDSPCA, UMD at Baltimore medical and law students, soil conservationists and the MD Hospital Association.
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Week 2 Annapolis Report 2010
Posted Jan 21 at 1 PM
The release of the Governor’s proposed budget has dominated the news this week. For all intents and purposes, the Governor retains full funding for both K-12 education (Maryland ranked #1 in the nation again this year) and higher education. He retains a required 5% ($635 million) rainy day fund and apportions $250 million for the school construction program. The budget continues to call for the furlough program for state employees in an effort to lay off fewer people. This year that layoff number begins around 200. I will write about my opinions on his proposal as the Legislature begins our discussions on cuts and adjustments that we intend to make.
Road and bicycle safety have always been a personal passion of mine. I know that this view is shared by many of my constituents who contact me about this subject. I will again be submitting legislation to the Maryland General Assembly to promote safer roads for all. With the support of the Department of Transportation, and no opposition or cost to this legislation, I am hopeful that 2010 is the year to make Maryland a safer place for bicyclists.
To that end, I would like to invite you to Annapolis on Wednesday, February 3, 2010, from 8:30 am to 4:00 pm for the 13th Annual One Less Car Smart Transportation and Bicycling Symposium in Annapolis. The free event will be at 11 Bladen Street, Annapolis, Maryland - Miller Building East. The Symposium will cover bicycle and pedestrian topics, as well as presentations on smart commuting/alternative transportation initiatives. Attendees and legislators will learn about the link that exists between our reliance on the automobile, climate change, public health concerns, land use planning, alternative transportation opportunities, livable communities and more. For more information, follow this link: www.onelesscar.org.
As you may know, with the help of my contractor, Neil Tabor and Ashley Homes, I recently built my nearly carbon neutral home with significant amount of energy saving applications and devices. Discovery Channel's "Renovation Nation" filmed part of the building of the home as part of their effort to demonstrate creative, environmentally conscious building. We in Maryland should be proud of our forward thinking in home improvement. I hope you can watch and enjoy Planet Green on Channel 113 on Comcast or Channel 168 on Verizon today (Thursday, January 21, 2010) at 6pm.
On Saturday, January 30, I will be supporting the Maryland Special Olympics Polar Bear Plunge. I look forward to joining some of you in the water at Sandy Point State Park for this terrific annual event. For those not plunging, I would be honored if you contacted my office to learn how to sponsor the plunge.
I want to congratulate my 11th District colleague, Delegate Dana Stein, on a significant honor. Civic Works, a non-profit organization which he both founded in 1993 and serves as Executive Director, was selected by the Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Fellows Program as its AIM for Excellence Award winner for results achieved by its green programs. To learn more about the great community work Civic Works does in Baltimore go to www.civicworks.com. I continue to work with Dana, Sen. Bobby Zirkin and Del. Dan Morhaim on important issues in the 11th district.
I had the opportunity to meet with a number of groups this week to learn about my constituents’ views on important issues. It was great to meet with Baltimore County Seniors, State Law Enforcement Leaders, MANSEF parents, leaders of the construction industry, UMD medical students, auto dealers, and advocates for the blind.
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Week 1 Annapolis Report 2010
Posted Jan 18 at 10 PM
The session has begun with both a wave of excitement and fiscal uncertainty. My Ways and Means Committee had a short briefing on the anemic budget and the daunting prospects for this legislative session. What I have taken from it is that as the economy slowly improves, we can expect another year of a nearly $2 billion deficit. Given our propensity to avoid tax increases in an election year, this task is sobering.
While I expect to receive the annual visits from constituents from across the state reminding us of the importance of their program funding, I will remind everyone of our Constitutional mandate to end on April 13 with a balanced budget. I very much hope to be able to vote on a budget that retains funding for all the programs I find crucial to Maryland, the wealthiest state in the nation, but I am reminded that we also have to live within our means. I remind you that last year our General Fund was cut from $14 billion to $13 billion. I hope that the next 87 days will demonstrate the fervor and determination of your legislators on making Maryland healthier, safer and further along the path of progress.
As far as issues to look out for, road and bicycle safety and healthy lifestyles tax credits are issues very close to my heart. In my Election Law Subcommittee, I will be looking at a number of campaign finance bills including a clean campaigns bill that I have championed for more than 7 years now. I also plan to investigate ways to improve overseas voting per the 2009 Presidential Order to that effect. Furthermore, I am interested in seeing how the Board of Public Works handles the new voting machine contracts coming at the end of the month.
For those of you jumping into the Chesapeake Bay on Saturday, January 30, for the Maryland Special Olympics Polar Bear Plunge, I will see you there. For those of you too timid to come to Sandy Point, I would be honored if you contact my office to learn how to sponsor the plunge.
Finally, I am really excited about the progress underway to transform the Rosewood Property in the heart of Owings Mills into a center for education and the environment. The nearby Torah Institute and Garrison Forest School have been joined by the Irvine Nature Center and the Jemicy School. I am optimistic that Stevenson University and the Shoshanna S. Cardin School will be the next permanent additions to Rosewood. Additionally, Your 11th District Team continues to fight for land to be set aside for the future use by Baltimore County Public Schools.
Please enjoy the following letter to the editor that Senator Zirkin and Delegates Morhaim, Stein and I wrote in support of the other exciting changes at Rosewood Hospital Center:
In regard to the disposition of the Rosewood property in Owings Mills, the Sun reported (1/11/10) that the Board of Public Works (BPW) "made the 178-acre property available to prospective buyers." Actually, the BPW was more specific. It said that the state "intends to offer the property for sale to Stevenson University." This is consistent with recommendations from the Department of Planning, the Baltimore County Planning Board, the Baltimore County Executive, and the district's elected representatives.
This plan has the widespread support of individuals and community organizations from the area. Stevenson University is a dynamic, growing institution. It plans to provide a community park, amphitheater, and playing fields for all to use. This will define northwest Baltimore County as a center of learning, economic growth, and responsible environmental stewardship. That's why the BPW noted that Stevenson's "plan was the one most consistent with known state and local plans, programs, and policies."
We agree completely, and while there are issues to be resolved, we will continue to work with Stevenson University to acquire the Rosewood property as part of our vision for a better community.
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Pre-Session Update 2010
Posted Jan 07 at 2 PM
I want to start by wishing everyone a Happy New Year! I am ready to take on the challenges during the 2010 session of the Maryland General Assembly. The session will begin on Wednesday, January 13.
I recognize that it is a privilege to represent my constituents and appreciate your continuing support. I look forward to working hard for the citizens of Pikesville, Randallstown, Owings Mills, Reisterstown and indeed all of Maryland.
I will again be working closely with my 11th District colleagues, Senator Bobby Zirkin, Delegate Dan Morhaim and Delegate Dana Stein. Your 11th District team will monitor any issues that have a direct impact on our district and on Baltimore County and ensure that your voice is heard.
Speaking of Baltimore County, I wanted to help County Executive Jim Smith and the Baltimore County Council spread the word about a terrific new environmental program. The new single stream recycling program begins with recycling collections the week of February 1. This plan will make it easier for residents to recycle by facilitating weekly collection of both paper and plastic. Also, more types of plastics will now be accepted for recycling.
For more information go to www.bcrecycles.com. I hope that everyone is supportive of the Baltimore County Department of Public Works as they implement this great new program. The more trash we can recycle, the less waste will go into our landfills.
I look forward to communicating with you during the 2010 legislative session in my weekly report.
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Pre-Session Annapolis Report 2010
Posted Dec 02 at 5 PM
Insights Into the Coming Legislative Session
As the 2010 legislative session approaches, I begin my weekly Annapolis Report with both a sense of trepidation and opportunity. I want to share with you my concerns about the economy in general and how Maryland is fairing. I will then describe some of the policies I expect to focus on and suggest how they may help us in the midst of our economic downturn. Finally, I want to remind my readers and constituents that because of your input, suggestions and comments, together, we have been able to have lasting impacts on the important decisions made in Annapolis.
The overarching fiscal situation looms as a backdrop behind us in this political season and will be followed by what will certainly be an interesting election. The signs are good that there is a light at the end of the tunnel and recovery is on its way. Nevertheless, this is a national and international economic crisis that has hit every state hard (and many states much harder than Maryland). To its credit, Baltimore County has managed maintenance of effort for its schools and even provided slight raises without tax increases, furloughs or layoffs.
While the Board of Public Works has made more than four rounds of cuts since our passage of the 2010 budget, Maryland has managed to balance our budget, stave off cuts to education, and work within the boundaries of reasonableness as tough decisions are made. As we prepare to pass a new budget, and as difficult as it will be, we will find a way to balance it through reductions likely totaling more than $1.5 billion.
The national unemployment rate breached the 10% mark, but given our disproportionate number of highly educated people and highly skilled workforce, as well as our proximity to Washington, our rate is significantly lower. That statistic is meaningless to my constituents who have lost their jobs, and for that reason, I will redouble my efforts to support policies that bring improved quality of life and job opportunities to our state.
I have focused my efforts over the past few years on healthy lifestyles, Chesapeake Bay restoration, election law and bicycle/pedestrian safety. This year will be different only in that I aspire to promote the same with added business opportunities and either negligible fiscal impacts or revenue positive outcomes.
My frustration over the national healthcare debate, and specifically why the issue of “access” has wholly dwarfed the issue of “cost” is shared by many. As a nation, we loathe to discuss the sensitive issues surrounding “cost” containment. Coincidentally, the President recently released over $600 million of stimulus for wellness programs, and with the unprecedented help of the Coalition for a Healthy Maryland and Senators Catherine Pugh and Kathy Klausmeier, I plan to reintroduce HB 711, from last year, giving Marylanders a tax deduction for sustained demonstrable healthy behaviors such as smoking cessation, weight loss, and wellness program membership. An ounce of prevention is worth more and costs less than a pound of cure!
Along those same lines, in an effort to take advantage of federal stimulus money, I am seeking to improve overseas voter access, specifically for the adult sons and daughters of Maryland citizens who are living overseas.
In the coming weeks, I will revisit the issue of bicycle safety and our efforts to improve both Maryland’s roads for bicyclists and Maryland’s reputation for bike friendliness. In spite of efforts made to encourage drivers and bicyclists to share the road, I learn of more and more accidents where cyclists are seriously hurt. As the number of cyclists commuting or riding for recreation continues to expand at exciting rates, I will be seeking to clarify laws and policy initiatives aimed at safety.
Finally, learning that tree cover is the best protection for land, water and air, the Governor took my tree planting bill from last year and made it a state policy challenge to plant more than a million trees annually. Now, after the debate about impervious surface that I started last year and the importance of monitoring it as a way to keep tabs on Bay decline, I will be reintroducing a bill that will address storm water management. With a $12 billion backlog of projects, this is a debate that must continue if we plan to leave a viable Bay for our children. My uncle, Senator Ben Cardin, has addressed this issue in Congress with an interstate Chesapeake Watershed bill. As we look to what Maryland will do, I believe that a serious commitment to address storm water management, nutrient runoff, and replenishment of the Chesapeake fisheries has to be undertaken.
This will not be a pleasant legislative session insofar as we are facing difficult budget times. I am confident that we will be cutting in most areas of the budget. Therefore, any new legislation will need to be innovative and costless, and I expect to discuss some of those innovative ideas over the next few months.
I look forward to communicating with you during the 2010 legislative session in my weekly report. It is my honor to serve the 11th District and the people of Maryland. It is our collective goal to make Maryland a better place for everyone to enjoy.
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BEST WISHES FOR A HAPPY HOLIDAY SEASON!
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End-of-Session Wrap-Up 2009
Posted Apr 15 at 5 PM
April 15, 2009
Dear Friend:The 426th session of the Maryland General Assembly drew to a close Monday night, and I again thank you for giving me the opportunity to represent you. I have been honored to serve the 11th District with my teammates Bobby Zirkin, Dan Morhaim and Dana Stein. In a dire fiscal situation, we have worked hard to reflect your priorities. To that end, this letter is designed to give a modest synopsis of some of my 2009 accomplishments and a personal perspective on the legislative session at-large.
"The person who is waiting for something to turn up might start with their shirt sleeves." - Garth Henrichs
It is clear that we began this session in the shadow of a sputtering national economy and facing a significant Maryland budget deficit based on reduced revenue estimates. Given the hardships you communicated to us, we on the Ways and Means Committee agreed not to raise taxes. Instead the committee pursued alternative means to reduce wasteful spending. In the end, we passed a shrunken $14 billion budget - the first in decades that was smaller in real dollars than the previous year. Additionally, with Magna filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, the General Assembly is taking action to try to save our beloved Preakness.
In line with the committee's objectives, I introduced a bill to reduce energy consumption in state owned and operated buildings. This will additionally model environmental benefits to our partners in the private sector. As a result, state agencies and departments will send the legislature a comprehensive report detailing their energy policies and a written plan to reduce consumption.
Furthermore, I introduced a bill to help reforest Maryland. It calls for greater communication between the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and community groups in facilitating tree planting efforts. In doing so, I have learned that tree cover is the best-known way to improve air and water quality, reduce erosion and improve storm water management. In response to my bill, which received wide-ranging support, DNR is moving forward on my initiative to reforest Maryland, and will return next year if they need additional clarifying legislation.
Following up on previous years' legislation, I am thrilled to continue to champion physical fitness and nutrition matters. I worked together with Delegate Jay Walker this session to implement the recommendations of last year's task force through the Gwendolyn Britt Student Health and Fitness Act for children. Healthy children become fulfilled, productive and healthy adults, so I will continue to be the lead sponsor of the Healthy Lifestyles & Disease Prevention Act - a tax incentive to reduce healthcare costs through sound healthy living.
Regrettably, in this economic climate it was difficult to reach an agreement on one of my priorities -- voluntary public campaign finance. The program gained real momentum when Senate President Mike Miller came out in support of the measure. Another bill that gained significant momentum was my bicycle safety bill which calls for cars to maintain a three-foot buffer when passing cyclists or pedestrians. This bill passed overwhelmingly in the Senate, but stalled in the House Environmental Matters Committee. Both of these important measures attracted a great deal of media attention, and I look forward to working towards their success next session.
In my Election Law subcommittee, we passed legislation which would provide a paper trail for voters. This means that votes can be audited and traced, ensuring better accuracy and aiding efforts to eliminate voter fraud. Furthermore, the subcommittee worked tirelessly to fine-tune my proposed early voting statute, which passed constitutional referendum by nearly 75% last November. Early voting has proven to increase turnout and engage the electorate.
The death penalty was a topic of heated discussion. After passionate debates, we passed legislation restricting the death penalty to cases in which the State presents the court with DNA evidence, a videotaped confession, or video recording that conclusively links the defendant to the murder. After much consideration and consternation, I voted in favor of the final bill. While I am concerned that the Senate amendments place a case's evidentiary sufficiency above the heinousness of the crime, I am pleased to see a strengthened system which seeks a greater burden of proof before sentencing a Maryland citizen to death.
In a continued effort to ensure the safety of Maryland drivers, I co-sponsored legislation outlawing text messaging while driving. The practice has proven to be a significant distraction and the legislation, while not perfect, will bring a greater awareness to its dangers. On a related topic, there was a definite urgency in the House of Delegates as we sought to adhere to the Real ID Act of 2005 so that Maryland driver's licenses will continue to be accepted at airports and federal buildings.
Organizations in our community received favorable reports on bond bills I eagerly co-sponsored. Sinai Hospital received matching funds of $2.5 million towards the cost of building a new pediatric wing to service children in our community. The Owings Mills Jewish Community Center received $200,000 towards the cost of a generator in order to serve as a disaster recovery site for Northwest Baltimore County. Hopewell Cancer Support Facility received $200,000 to expand its ability to provide needed programming.
As always, I welcome your thoughts and comments. During the session, I endeavored to keep you updated on the legislative process through my weekly Annapolis Reports, discussing various pieces of measured legislation. Reaction from constituents and supporters to my comments has served as a good way to gauge the mood of our district.
Additionally, it is my pleasure to inform you that my enivronmentally-friendly home will be featured on Discovery Channel's Renovation Nation, a show which profiles homeowners who are making eco-friendly changes to their homes. Please visit the PRESS RELEASES section of my website for details.
I try my best to make our community my priority. Reconciling our local wishes with the needs of the state is a complex art that can always improve. Together, we continue to focus on the significant unfinished state business and continual challenges to our environment, health, education and economy. Again, thank you for your confidence, and please enjoy the following "Highlights."DELEGATE JON S. CARDIN
2009 LEGISLATIVE HIGHLIGHTSELECTION LAW
Early Voting: As Chair of the Election Law Subcommittee, I lead the fight to implement Early Voting for Marylanders, which was approved with 75% of the vote in the last election. Passing this bill gives Maryland citizens the same access to early voting as takes place in many other states.
Paper Trail: I also championed creating a paper voting trail for future elections to guarantee that all votes are counted. I am pleased to report that on the final day of session this bill passed.
PROTECTING THE ENVIRONMENT
Chesapeake Bay: I was proud to support the Bay Restoration Act of 2009, which would prohibit the installation of on-site sewage disposal systems unless the system has nitrogen-removal technology.
Reforesting Maryland: The Governor drew inspiration from my tree planting bill and recently trumpeted the benefits of planting trees. DNR has launched a website www.trees.maryland.gov to facilitate communications with civic groups interested in planting trees.
Smart Growth: I was thrilled when the Administration drew from my impervious surface bill to insert a requirement into the Smart Growth Measures and Indicators Bill to monitor and track the growth of impervious surfaces in the State. The Chesapeake Bay Commission has expressed concern over the rapid increase of impervious surfaces, and this requirement is an essential first step towards combating out-of-control sprawl.
Recycling in State Buildings: My colleague, Del. John Olszewski, Jr., and I sponsored a bill that requires State-owned and State-operated office buildings to develop recycling programs. This legislation will require the recovery of aluminum, glass, paper, and plastic generated for disposal by the State government and mandate the placement of recycling bins in State buildings. If we are asking others to recycle, the least we in government can do is model good behavior.
LEGAL MATTERS
Stay of Sentence: In conjunction with Del. Jill Carter, I worked to pass a bill this session authorizing the Circuit Court to stay a sentence of imprisonment imposed by the District Court and release a defendant pending trial in a criminal appeal. This will provide significant protection for defendants' rights while pursuing lawful appeals.
Domestic Violence: I commend my teammate Sen. Bobby Zirkin for continuing his focus on public safety. This session SB 601, Domestic Violence-Temporary Protective Orders-Extension was passed. This legislation, one of a package of domestic violence bills, passed this year helping to protect victims of domestic abuse by giving judges greater discretion to extend protective orders against their abusers.
Deceptive Automotive Advertising: I commend my teammate Del. Dana Stein for his leadership on HB 547, which would require prices in auto advertisements to be the "full delivered cash price." This would eliminate the deceptive practice of incorporating into prices certain rebates for which many buyers may not qualify.
Speed Cameras: I understand the intent of this policy is to utilize improvements in technology to decrease dangerous driving in specific speed zones. However, I have always felt uncertain about this type of legislation. I have yet to be convinced that the benefits outweigh the costs and that no other method of accomplishing our goal exists. In spite of my skepticism, the bill passed.
Teen Driving: I grudgingly voted in favor of a bill which, among other things, raises the driving age to 16 and 6 months. While the bill may create safer driving conditions, I stay cautious to limit the privileges of the many responsible teens in our community. Had I not been able to drive my friends as a high-schooler, my basketball team would have been unable to participate in "away" games.
Maryland Disability Law Center: Leading the fight on the floor of the House to restore funding to this important community service, I was pleased that the Conference Committee supported my position that cutting legal services to the disabled was imprudent, and struck the amendment.
BILLS OF COMMUNITY INTEREST
Small Group Health Care Insurance: I commend my teammate Del. Dan Morhaim for making the first real reform on this issue since 1993. It will allow increased flexibility for small businesses seeking to provide health care coverage for employees.
Arts Funding: I appreciated receiving a considerable amount of correspondence in support of maintaining the funding for Maryland's cultural treasures. We, on the Ways and Means Committee, included on the Electronic Bingo extension bill an additional fee earmarked for the arts to compensate for the loss of Art's Council funding in the budget.
Community Projects: I would like to let you know that I am closely following the planned renovations of Main Street in Reisterstown. Many constituents are also concerned about the disposition of the Rosewood property once the State-run facility closes. I will continue to ensure that the interests of the local community are considered.
Baltimore County: The Owings Mills Metro Center project, which will include the long-sought Owings Mills Library and the CCBC Owings Mills campus, took a major step towards becoming a reality with the passage of HB300 - a bill that leverages financing from MEDCO. However, I opposed legislation to allow deer hunting on Sundays, as many constituents expressed significant concerns with this proposal.
Protecting Our Pets: I was honored to receive the 2008 Humane Legislator Award from the Humane Society of the United States. Legislation I sponsored last session protected the ability of animal shelters to be able to store and use sedatives in accordance with DEA requirements. This session I cosponsored legislation to require the ethical breeding of dogs.
Rosewood: A budget amendment would have prevented the state from earning revenue to support DDA programs by prohibiting leases at Rosewood before the property is sold. Working in conjunction with the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene that has leases ongoing and looking out for any new leases that may be established, I successfully lobbied to have this language struck.
Class Size Monitoring: Del. Olszewski and I sponsored legislation to require the State Department of Education to develop a uniform data-collection method to track the number of students who regularly participate in a classroom. This will provide accurate and consistent class size data so as to ensure that our children's needs are being met in the classroom.
Working hard for Maryland,
Jon S. Cardin
