2021 Pre-Legislative Session Discussion Recap
On Wednesday, January 6, the Kent and Queen Anne's County Chambers of Commerce co-hosted legislators from the Maryland 36th District for a panel discussion on the upcoming 2021 Maryland legislative session. During the discussion, legislators shared what they are looking forward to regarding the upcoming session, what Kent and Queen Anne's County residents and business owners should be aware of, and answered questions from members.
A summary of the panel discussion includes the following points:
Last year’s legislative session ended two weeks early due to the coronavirus. Bills that were not resolved during last year’s session will be fast-tracked during this year’s session.
The Senate and House are transitioning well under new leadership.
Legislators spent a lot of time helping constituents obtain unemployment benefits.
Social distancing measures enacted to protect legislators and citizens alike will pose unique challenges regarding how people can testify.
1000 bills have been pre-filed so far, exceeding expectations. Legislators were asked to submit fewer bills this year considering constraints imposed by COVID-19.
Governor Hogan’s veto of Kirwan’s Blueprint for Maryland’s Future is expected to be overridden.
Additional taxes on tobacco and a digital advertisement are a few options the legislature is considering to raise revenues
The 36th district delegation is opposed to new taxes, especially during the pandemic as many businesses are struggling.
Learn more by watching a recording of the discussion.
From top left to bottom right: Senator Steve Hershey, Delegate Steve Arentz, Delegate Jeff Ghrist, and Delegate Jay Jacobs.
Special thanks to the League of Women Voters of Kent County and Queen Anne’s County for sponsoring the discussion.
About the Kent County Chamber of Commerce
With more than 300 member businesses, nonprofits, and individuals, the Chamber is Kent County’s premier business-to-business facilitator. Through our many unique programs, events, and advocacy, we provide a platform for leaders from the private, public, and non-profit sectors to engage with each other to grow their respective organizations for the ultimate benefit of Kent County and its residents.
Interested in joining? Learn about the benefits of becoming a member today.
