Maryland General Assembly Legislative Agenda 2010

The Presbytery of Baltimore, through its Director of Public Policy, Julie Erickson, advocates in support of the social justice issues important to congregations within the Presbytery. The Presbytery offers ongoing support throughout the year for traditional social issues such as: education funding, immigration, gun control and repeal of the death penalty.

This year, during the 427th session of the Maryland General Legislative Assembly, the Legislative Task Force of the Presbytery's Peace and Justice Committee has identified several primary issues. Those issues include the following:

*BUDGET
Drastic reductions in state revenue have resulted in cuts to the General Fund—threatening programs that provide support to low-income families and individuals as well as public services provided by state agencies.  Without these supports families will lose housing assistance; utilities will be cut off; many will not receive proper medical treatment; and, others will be left homeless.  People with developmental disabilities are especially at risk of losing essential support services. Our goal during this session of the General Assembly will be focused on working with the legislature and the governor’s office to prevent funding cuts to programs that protect the quality of life for our most vulnerable citizens.  We will work to ensure that those who cannot speak to power are heard in the halls of government.

*HEALTH CARE
Expansion of Medicaid to parents of children who have qualified for this program was funded during the 2007 Special Session of the General Assembly; and, more than 55,000 adult parents are currently enrolled in this program.  However, many more are eligible who have not applied.  Therefore, we will work to ensure that this funding stream remains dedicated to providing health care to a greater number of eligible citizens. 

*ENVIRONMENT
When we read our Scriptures through the eyes of an agrarian or an environmentalist, we see and understand how the writers of these texts understood the relationship between good stewardship of our creation, and the health and welfare of the people.  As Christians doing God’s work we are required to Care for Creation.  In that light we support wise legislation that affects our air, land, water, and our society. Within that framework we will work to protect the green infrastructure budget, work for smarter transportation choices for Maryland, and help to pass the Watershed Protection and Restoration Act.

Legislative Alert: MARYLAND BUDGET (March 24, 2010)

As we seek the common good in the public square, please notify the Presbytery’s Public Policy office of issues of concern that relate to legislation proposed during the 427th Session of the Maryland General Assembly. I am available to speak with your congregation about the legislative process or bills proposed during this session.  Please contact me at jerickson@baltimorepresbytery.org or by phone 410.370.8245 or 410.268.4122.