Del. Jennings: Maryland’s Taxes Are Among The Highest In The Nation

Dear Editor, 

It is truly remarkable what a difference two (2) years can make.  If we could journey back to ‘2006’, Marylanders were in a state of disgust over the imminent increases in energy costs.  Demanding change in Annapolis, the State elected a new Administration that promised to thwart energy hikes and cut taxes on both personal income and property for middle-income Marylanders. Surprisingly enough, Marylanders elected this new Administration despite a 60% approval rating of former Governor Ehrlich’s performance during his term.  

Now, two (2) years later and under the Leadership of Governor O’Malley, Maryland received a “change”.  Unfortunately, Governor O’Malley has delivered a “change” - unexpected and undesirable to Marylander’s expectations.  In only his first term, Governor O’Malley raised all three (3) of its major tax rates.    Continue reading Del. Jennings: Maryland’s Taxes Are Among The Highest In The Nation

Del. McDonough: “Putting People First” Takes a Different Type of Elected Official

Although most people believe that politicians are all the same, my experience has been that this assumption is far from the truth.  I believe that many elected officials have different approaches to the way they represent the people.  During my three terms in public office, I have always had one guiding principle that was based on the belief that the people elected me to do a job.  They are the bosses and their interests are the only priority that I have.  My legislative agenda reflects that commitment.

My crime victim legislation agenda included Jessica’s Law Part II - Truth in Sentencing.  This bill was created to eliminate good time credits and early release for certain types of criminals. Two other public safety measures — the Witness Protection Act and a victim protection act — would also eliminate good time early release credits for any offender who intimidates or attempts to harm a witness in any way.  These proposals would mandate capital punishment for a perpetrator who murders a witness.  All three of these bills place public safety and crime victims first. Continue reading Del. McDonough: “Putting People First” Takes a Different Type of Elected Official