As the summer heat continues to blaze, it's important to take care of ourselves and stay cool. Remember that Anne Arundel County has cooling centers available for those who need relief from the heat. If you find that the heat is becoming unbearable, please don't hesitate to visit one of our cooling centers. To find a center near you, click here.
Stay cool, stay hydrated, and stay safe!
As the interim continues, legislative activities have been keeping me busy. I have been meeting with department secretaries to discuss both recently passed legislation and future legislative needs. Additionally, I met with the Health Services Cost Review Commission (HSCRC) to discuss ongoing efforts to address ED wait time issues in Maryland.
I was humbled and honored to receive the Legislator of the Year Award from the Maryland Hospital Association. I am grateful for the acknowledgement of the Finance Committee's efforts in 2024. Rest assured, our commitment to enhancing healthcare in Maryland remains steadfast!
I had the opportunity to work with a group of advocates for people who have experienced “limb loss.” We successfully passed a bill entitled “So Everybody Can Move.” This bill allows people to have additional prosthetics so they can participate in activities like dance, skiing, baseball, track, and lifting, activities that everyone should have the opportunity to do if they wish. Thank you to Delegate Ashanti Martinez for cross-filing the bill in the House. Thank you, Sheryl Sachs, for your work advocating for our constituents. Thank you for honoring me with the “Champion” award. It was my honor and privilege to sponsor SB 614.
The recent celebration of Leadership Anne Arundel marked 30 years of inspiring leadership. Congratulations to all graduates, especially Erin Shearman Karpewicz for the Excellence in Leadership Award and Lisa Shore for the Distinguished Graduate Award. As a proud 1996 alum, Leadership Anne Arundel inspired me to run for County Council in 1998. Cheers to continued success and impactful leadership!
I had a productive meeting with County Councilwoman of District 2, Allison Pickard, and the leadership team at BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport. It was a pleasure discussing County Region Planning and BWI's Master Planning process with Mr. Ricky Smith, Executive Director of BWI Airport. Collaboration like this paves the way for positive community strengthening initiatives.
I attended the sentencing hearing for Tavon Smith, the MTA operator involved in the tragic incident at Maple Road Light Rail crossing. The thorough investigation by the States Attorney's Office revealed lapses in safety protocols by both the driver and the MTA, resulting in irreparable harm. It's a stark reminder of the critical importance of adherence to regulations to prevent such tragedies. I am continuing to work with the Maryland Department of Transportation to update the 30-year-old light rail equipment so the community will have equipment that addresses our safety concerns.