My Priorities this Legislative Session

As you know, the Maryland General Assembly session is in full swing, and I'd like to take a few moments to highlight some of the important pieces of legislation currently under consideration in the House and Senate:

Taking Care of Maryland's Veterans
I have testified in support of two bills under consideration that would provide increased financial benefits to Maryland veterans.  Senate Bill 65 (.pdf) would add a check-off on your personal tax forms to contribute to the Maryland Veterans Trust Fund, a fund established by the State to provide financial assistance to veterans and their families, support vital programs for our veterans, and provide funding for the Charlotte Hall Veterans Home.

Additionally, Senate Bill 1(.pdf) and House Bill 1 (.pdf) would increase the State income tax exemption for Veterans to $10,000 - a 100% increase from the current exemption of $5,000.

Strengthening Maryland's Knowledge-Based Economy
I recognize the importance of Maryland's technology and life sciences sectors to the health of our state's economy, and recently testified in support of Senate Bill 64 (.pdf), which would extend the State's Research and Development Income Tax Credit. This tax credit has been vital to Maryland's emergence as a global leader in high growth areas such as the life sciences, information technology and nanotechnology. Continuing this credit will allow Maryland to maintain a competitive advantage for the highly skilled jobs and investment that the technology sectors create.

Fostering Economic Opportunity and Fairness
I have worked closely with Governor O'Malley in my role as a member of the Board of Public Works to support minority and women-owned businesses in Maryland.  I recently testified in support of Senate Bill 2 (.pdf) and House Bill 222 (.pdf), which would extend the duration of a key task force that is working to identify recommendations for stimulating investment in successful minority and women-owned businesses.

I encourage you all to contact your legislators and ask them to support these important pieces of legislation.  To find your legislators and their contact information, please visit http://mdelect.net/.