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2022 Legislative Agenda
Progressive Maryland's 2022 Legislative Agenda
Criminal Justice & Police Reform
Progressive Maryland is fighting to end the mass incarceration of people of color in our state. Eliminating the use of cash bail, reducing pretrial detention and increasing rights for our immigrant communities are all reforms that would bring us significantly closer to that goal. We are advocating for probation over deportation (SB0265) and ensuring that immigrants have access to legal counsel in deportation proceedings (SB0129). We are also advocating for a Good Samaritan law, which would prohibit the arrest of anyone experiencing a medical emergency after using alcohol or drugs or anyone trying to assist someone in such a situation (HB0190); and funding for entrepreneurship development programs for formerly incarcerated people via the Maryland New Start Act of 2022 (HB0158).
Revisioning the role of police in our communities is also key. We are advocating for the removal of police from schools to enhance the safety of students; and the requirement of minimizing the presence of police in responses to a behavioral health crisis in order to minimize law enforcement interaction with individuals in such a crisis and increase public safety in our communities (SB0012). We are also supporting higher standards of transparency within policing such as stricter use of body-worn cameras with public access to data and recordings (HB0162); and accountability for police like with the creation of a civilian review board in Baltimore City (SB0309).
Drug Policy
We are supporting the decriminalization of all drugs and drug paraphernalia; and the legalization of marijuana for adult use and possession (HB0001).
We believe that decriminalization is only rightfully paired with the expungement of records. We are pushing for records to be automatically erased due to a variety of reasons including dismissed charges based on mistaken identity (SB0016) as well as for possession of less than 10 grams of marijuana (SB0026).
We are also advocating for the creation of Overdose Prevention Sites, the immunity of people who seek help in medical emergencies, the decriminalization of paraphernalia, and other methods designed to address the ongoing overdose crisis. We support ending the requirement for prior authorization of the MD Medical Assistance Program to administer drug products to treat opioid use disorder in order to remove any barriers to saving a life (SB0323) along with authorizing any emergency medical services providers to dispense naloxone for treatment of drug overdose under the Statewide Targeted Overdose Prevention (STOP) Act of 2022 (SB0394).
Healthcare Justice:
We’ve long known that our corporate healthcare system is unjust and inequitable, and the COVID-19 pandemic has made it more clear than ever that we need major reforms. We are advocating for a measure that will require Maryland hospitals to reimburse low-income patients they have dramatically overcharged for care. We are also supporting multiple bills that will implement paid family and medical leave for workers across the state.
The Access to Care Act will expand vital health services and coverage to members of our immigrant communities by allowing them to sign up for coverage under the Affordable Care Act regardless of their immigration status. And we’re supporting a commission to study the implementation of a single payer healthcare system in Maryland to help us move toward Medicare for All.
We will continue to advocate for greater investment in community health services, including overdose prevention sites, vaccination programs, and other preventative and primary care services.
Labor & Economic Justice:
We believe that all workers are entitled to safe workplaces and proper compensation. Passing a stronger Essential Workers Protection Act will provide for our essential workers through this immediate crisis. Furthermore, repairing the broken unemployment insurance system, guaranteed paid sick and family leave for all, anti-discrimination legislation for working moms, and closing loopholes in minimum wage law will benefit workers now and into the future. The bottom line is that we need to establish the Family and Medical Leave Insurance Program in the Maryland Department of Labor through the Time to Care Act of 2022 (SB0275).
We support the right of all workers to unionize and we stand behind bills that will expand collective bargaining rights (SB0118, SB0255, HB0374) and prevent companies from writing off payments to union busting firms as a business expense on their taxes (HB0172). We also support doing away with all federal student loans to improve financial equity, support our workers, and improve our economy.
Housing Justice:
Maryland is one of the most expensive states in the country to live in. In these unprecedented times, we need to stop evictions, foreclosures, and utility shut-offs; and provide payment assistance for Marylanders who have fallen behind on rent and mortgages for reasons far beyond their control. As we look to the future, we must invest in social housing and ensure that landlords’ screening processes don’t penalize potential tenants through credit checks and other similar mechanisms.
Environment, Energy & Transportation:
Black, Brown and Indigenous communities deserve the same clean air and water as white communities. The MD Environmental Human Rights Amendment and ending government subsidies for trash incineration are just a couple of the necessary changes that will protect communities of color from racist, predatory land use decisions. We are pushing for an amendment that would add the following two provisions to the Declaration of Rights Section of the MD State Constitution: 1. that everyone has the fundamental and inalienable right to a healthy and sustainable environment of which shall not be infringed; and 2. that the State shall protect, conserve, and enhance our natural resources, including air, lands, waters, wildlife, and ecosystems for the benefit of present and future generations.
With that said, we are advocating for an alteration to the Renewable Energy Portfolio Standard so that the definition of a Tier 1 Renewable Source would exclude certain biomass in which waste-to-energy incineration would no longer be part of this category nor be able to receive the benefits under this categorization. Along with eliminating trash incineration under the Reclaim Renewable Energy Act of 2022 (HB0011), we are supporting the electrification of residential homes as long as investments and profits are going directly into low-income, high-burdened communities. This includes requiring the Department of Housing and Community Development to provide funding for energy efficiency upgrades for low-income households (HB0108); and the Department of Human Services to allow anyone to benefit from the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program which currently has eligibility requirements (HB0138).
In the transportation sector, we have previously supported increased funding for the equitable expansion of public transit and are now working to ensure that equity is implemented in state transportation plans and reports. As part of that, we support requiring the Department of Transportation to conduct transit equity analyses and consult with certain communities before announcing or proposing service changes (SB0023). We believe that access to public transportation should be abundant, affordable and equitable and this legislation is a step in the right direction.
Education:
We believe that K-12 school curriculums should reflect the diverse and expansive history of Black, Brown, and Indigenous people and immigrants in this country and across the world. We also support increased funding for outdoor education and the expansion of internet access in underserved public schools, particularly those located in low-income communities of color.
Many workers in Maryland's higher education system are exploited and dramatically underpaid, and we support legislation that will grant them collective bargaining rights, empowering them to fight for fair compensation and be treated with dignity by their employers.
Democracy Reform:
When corporations and the super wealthy are the ones who fund our elections, our elected officials are more responsive to their donors than they are to their constituents and everyday Marylanders. We need publicly financed elections for General Assembly races to reduce the outsize influence of big money in our government, which is why we are supporting the Public Financing Act (SB0358).
Progressive Taxation:
Corporations and the wealthy benefit financially from police and fire departments, roads and public transit, an educated workforce, and many other services provided by the government. We need to ensure they are paying their fair share of taxes by closing loopholes and raising taxes for multi-millionaires. The Corporate Tax Fairness Act of 2022 (SB0360) will require certain corporations to compute Maryland taxable income using a certain combined reporting method.
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Supporter Portal
If you are already a member or email subscriber, you may manage your information with us via our Supporter Self-Service Portal: pgmd.us/portal
When you enter the email address we have on file for you, you will receive a link with access to the portal. Once in the portal, you may edit your personal contact information, billing information, contributions, date your membership payment is charged each month, email subscription status, sign up for text messages, and much more. If you still have further questions regarding your information, you may send us a detailed message at [email protected]
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2022 Candidate Endorsements
Progressive Maryland is proud to endorse the following candidates for the 2022 Maryland General Election:
Carlos Childs for Charles County Commissioner (District 3)
Carlos Childs is a progressive Democrat and community organizer with legislative experience and a strong history of progressive advocacy. In 2020, Carlos co-founded Schools Not Jails, a grassroots nonprofit dedicated to ending the school-to-prison pipeline by investing in public education, with other Maryland activists. He currently serves as the State Organizing Director for Our Revolution Maryland, where he builds support for federal, state, and local policies that improve the standard of living for all working Americans. On the Charles County Board of Commissioners, Carlos plans to improve healthcare access by pushing to establish a full-service public hospital in Waldorf, address the cost of living by introducing a countywide rent stabilization program, and invest in public infrastructure by spearheading initiatives to create new parks and recreation centers for community members.
Edward Burroughs III for Prince George’s County Council (District 8)
A lifelong South County resident, Edward Burroughs has spent the last decade serving as an elected member of the Prince George’s County Board of Education. In this role, Edward has built a strong reputation for speaking out against political corruption, fighting for innovative and transformative education policies, and holding public school system leaders accountable for providing all students a quality education. As the Director of Legislative Affairs for the Prince George’s County State’s Attorney, Edward also has firsthand experience developing thoughtful crime prevention policies to keep communities safe. On the County Council, Edward will continue to push tirelessly for government transparency and accountability. He will be a fierce advocate for youth, working families, and seniors across the district, ensuring county policies and initiatives are always developed in ways that give back to local communities and uplift future generations.
Januari McKay for State Delegate (District 23B – Prince George’s County)
Januari McKay is an advocate and community educator with over fifteen years of experience in youth development, public health advocacy, and political organizing. Januari has partnered with various national and local organizations to mobilize civic engagement, led innovative public health initiatives to address reproductive health and the HIV/AIDS crisis, and worked to develop and support young leaders. As a case manager working with youth in the child welfare system, she has experienced firsthand how our state and local governments work – and how often they don’t work – for the people who are hurting most. Through her extensive experience, Januari has come to recognize the importance of an approach that blends grassroots organizing with committed advocacy and smart policy to make meaningful strides toward a better society. As State Delegate, she will always put her constituents first to set a new, people-powered agenda that improves life for all Prince George’s County residents.
Krystal Oriadha for Prince George’s County Council (District 7)
Krystal Oriadha has spent years advocating for policies and legislation that support and protect the residents of Prince George’s County. As co-founder of the grassroots organization PG ChangeMakers, she has worked to break down systemic racism and address community issues around housing, food insecurity, health care, LGBTQ rights, police reform, and education. Krystal recognizes the importance of standing in solidarity with the communities most impacted by policies to build grassroots power, and she’s ready to introduce an agenda that reflects this at the county level. On the Prince George’s County Council, Krystal will fight to pass policies that improve the overall quality of life in local communities, ensure economic development serves everyone, and center the voices and needs of the county’s most vulnerable residents.
Laurie-Anne Sayles for Montgomery County Council At-Large
Laurie-Anne Sayles is a lifelong public servant who envisions a more inclusive, informed, and innovative Montgomery County led by a responsive and conscientious government. In 2017, Laurie-Anne was elected to the Gaithersburg City Council, becoming the first African American councilmember in the city’s history after running a people-powered, energetic grassroots campaign. A seasoned advocate, she has fought for a $15 minimum wage, expanded access to early childhood education, immigration reform, environmental justice, and other policies to build a more equitable society. She uses her life experiences to fuel a steadfast commitment to helping others who are underserved, underrepresented, and less fortunate. Laurie-Anne is running to bring her S.M.A.R.T. government platform to Montgomery County, with a policy agenda designed to strengthen public education, improve housing affordability, invest in local food production, revitalize the economy, and establish equitable transportation initiatives.
Logan Endow for State Delegate (District 43)
A Baltimore native, Logan Endow is an economist with over a decade of experience in gun violence prevention and epidemic control. In recent years, he has advocated with the Baltimore Teachers Union for the Kirwan Commission to improve funding for public schools, with National Nurses United for medical debt relief, and with the Baltimore Fair Election Coalition for campaign finance reform. As State Delegate representing District 43 in Baltimore City, Logan will act with courage and expertise to address urgent public health concerns and the crisis of gun violence. His platform prioritizes violence prevention, COVID-19 pandemic recovery, educational equity, and economic relief.
Michele Gregory for State Senate (District 38 – Somerset, Wicomico, Worcester Counties)
Salisbury City Councilmember Michele Gregory is a public servant, wife, mother of three, educator, and former small business owner. Michele understands the struggles that working Marylanders face. Her life experience with the financial impacts of medical debt, incurred during a family health crisis, and the difficulties of being a medical advocate for her special needs child have led Michele to recognize the urgent need for transformative political change. She is strongly committed to health equity, and she will work tirelessly to ensure all Marylanders have easy access to quality health care and medications without the threat of accumulating devastating medical debt. In the Salisbury City Council, Michele has fought for meaningful measures to protect and enhance the lives of her constituents on the Eastern Shore, and she plans to bring those same fights to the State Senate. In Annapolis, she will prioritize investing in a human-centered economy, supporting the agricultural community, helping small businesses flourish, stewarding Chesapeake Bay ecosystems, expanding senior services, implementing universal pre-K, and protecting civil rights.
Natali Fani-González for Montgomery County Council (District 6)
Natali Fani-González is a social, economic, and environmental justice advocate. She believes everyone in Montgomery County deserves to live somewhere safe, vibrant, and affordable, with access to well-paying jobs, strong schools, quality health care, reliable public transportation, and beautiful green spaces to enjoy and protect. Natali has extensive civil service experience and a history of working closely with community organizations and labor unions to address the needs of community members. Before stepping down to run for office, she served as Vice Chair of the Montgomery County Planning Board and a Commissioner for the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, the bi-county agency that regulates real estate development, plans transportation infrastructure, and manages the park systems in Montgomery and Prince George’s Counties.
Robbie Leonard for Baltimore County State’s Attorney
Robbie Leonard has spent over a decade fighting for justice in Baltimore area courtrooms and is running to bring fairness and transparency to the Baltimore County State’s Attorney Office. Robbie began his legal career as a fearless public defender, tirelessly advocating for clients in district, circuit, and juvenile courts. He later transitioned to a civil litigation focus, where he has won several million-dollar verdicts on behalf of children poisoned by lead exposure in Baltimore. An active member of his community with deep roots in the Maryland Democratic Party, Robbie will hold himself accountable to the demands and concerns of Baltimore County residents as State’s Attorney. He is committed to engaging and collaborating with those who have been directly impacted by the failings of the justice system, whether they are victims of domestic violence, families seeking restorative healing, or individuals returning to the community after incarceration.
Ruben Amaya for State Delegate (District 10 – Baltimore County)
Ruben Amaya is a progressive Democrat running for office to represent the needs of working families. Raised in Baltimore County by parents who immigrated from Central America, Ruben is committed to crafting legislation that reflects the needs of all constituents by bringing marginalized and underrepresented voices into the decision making process. He will push for measures that provide children with better opportunities in education, invest in local economies to promote job growth, protect the environment, and ensure communities remain safe. Ruben is an at-large member of the Baltimore County Democratic State Central Committee and previously served on the Maryland School-to-Prison Pipeline Commission and the Baltimore County School Board Nominating Commission. In these roles, he has fought for criminal justice reform, better representation in public schools, and accountability in the county government. If elected, Ruben will be the first Latino State Delegate in Baltimore County history.
Sheila Ruth for State Delegate (District 44B – Baltimore County)
Sheila Ruth is a sitting member of the Maryland House of Delegates representing District 44B in Baltimore County. She serves on the House Environment & Transportation Committee, where she has been a fierce advocate for progressive priorities that address climate, transit equity, racial justice, universal healthcare, mental health, juvenile justice, disability rights, reproductive rights, and workers' rights. Sheila brings to her work a deep passion for justice and a strong commitment to improving the lives of her constituents and all Marylanders. Prior to becoming State Delegate, Sheila was a lead organizer in the coalition that passed Baltimore County’s HOME (Housing Opportunities Made Equal) Act, a critical piece of civil rights legislation that prohibits housing discrimination based on a person’s source of income. She previously served on the Baltimore County Democratic Central Committee and as a co-chair of Our Revolution Baltimore.
Tiffany Jones for Baltimore City Democratic State Central Committee (District 45)
Tiffany Jones is a civil rights advocate, community organizer, and lifelong resident of East Baltimore committed to meaningful political change that works for our communities. In her current role with the City of Baltimore, Tiffany investigates police misconduct cases and acts as an LGBTQ+ liaison for the city government. She serves as a representative on Baltimore’s Public Safety Advisory Commission, a four-year position appointed by the mayor, and is an active member of the Baltimore City Commission for Women. Tiffany has been involved in a wide range of grassroots community initiatives over the years, organizing for healthcare equity, voting rights, and community-centered public safety. On the Democratic State Central Committee, she will work tirelessly to improve the lives of Baltimore residents and ensure their concerns and interests are being represented by the Democratic Party.
Wala Blegay for Prince George’s County Council (District 6)
Wala Blegay is an attorney, community activist, and advocate committed to improving the quality of life for Prince George’s County residents. She currently serves as counsel for the DC Nurses Association, where she works to gain labor protections and improve the workplace for nurses and other health care workers. Wala has advocated for civil rights, fought foreclosures, and rallied for police reform. She has provided resources to victims of domestic violence, pushed for quality healthcare access for all Marylanders, and worked to protect immigrant families. On the Prince George’s County Council, she will widen the pathway for programs that benefit constituents through direct access to quality healthcare, increased mental health services, and affordable housing initiatives. She will lead efforts to support and strengthen the local economy through innovative initiatives designed to support small businesses and build generational wealth in historically marginalized communities.
William Reid for State Delegate (District 3A – Frederick County)
Dr. William “Billy” Reid is committed to fighting on behalf of everyday people in Frederick County’s District 3A. With thirty years of service as a soldier, an educator, and a scientist, as well as a deep understanding of the issues we all face, Bill is equipped to tackle challenges and bring lasting political change to Maryland. He is committed to a progressive agenda that centers social, economic, educational, racial, environmental, healthcare, and criminal justice. Since his retirement from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bill has devoted his time and energy to upholding the ideals of democracy and supporting a safe, healthy, and prosperous future for his community. Bill currently is an elected member of the Frederick County Democratic State Central Committee, and he serves on both the Frederick County COVID-19 Testing Task Force and the COVID-19 Vaccine Rollout Task Force, where he has helped assess and monitor testing needs and vaccine distribution in some of the county’s most vulnerable communities.
Looking for our Questionnaires for Endorsement? Here they are:
2022 Candidate Questionnaire for the Maryland State Senate
2022 Candidate Questionnaire for the Maryland State Delegation
2022 Candidate Questionnaire for Montgomery County Council
2022 Candidate Questionnaire for Prince George's County Council
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Reentry Work Group
The REWG was formed in 2019 to respond to an unmet need – the lack of transitional housing and programs, social services, and jobs for returning citizens in Prince George's County. The group continues to advocate for voter access, re-entry housing, jobs, healthcare, funding for a transition center, and formation of an Office of Returning Citizens Affairs for the county. The increasing needs from the COVID-19 pandemic over the past couple of years have only exacerbated this pressing problem. Progressive Maryland believes that the state as a whole must address this crisis to ensure returning residents’ successful reintegration into our communities.
Get Involved with the Reentry Work Group by filling out the interest form here.
--Learn more our 6 pillar priorities and work group members here.
So far, the work group has:
- strengthened voting rights and access for incarcerated people
- successfully lobbied for the formation of the Reentry Advisory Board
- secured funding for employment wage incentives for businesses to hire returning citizens
As a direct result of REWG advocacy, the county increased funding for reentry from zero dollars in 2019 to more than $300,000 in the most recent fiscal budget.
--View our brochure supporting an Office of Returning Citizens Affairs (ORCA) here.
--View our brochure supporting stable housing here.
Our Faith and Community Engagement (FACE) Resource Network provides a variety of comprehensive services and resources that empower justice-involved men, women, and young adults to achieve a successful, productive quality of life outside the prison walls by building a strong network of faith-based and community- based organizational partnerships that support safe and healthy communities, and promote restorative practices that address trauma, strengthen families, and help reduce recidivism for a more just and socially responsible society. Learn more here.
***The Request For Proposals is now open.***
The REWG will accept proposals through February 28, 2022. Those eligible to apply are for-profit businesses, non-profit organizations, and both faith-based and community-based organizations committed to providing reentry services in Prince George’s County. Services may include (but are not limited to) those associated with employment and job training, physical and mental health, and housing. A participatory grant-making committee, made up of eight people either impacted by the justice system or working with those directly impacted, will guide and oversee the proposal selection process. Grants will be awarded in the range of $10,000 to $20,000 each. To submit a proposal, please view the application details and further information here.
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Christianne Marguerite published We're Endorsing Candidates for the 2022 Elections! in Home 2021-11-16 19:19:22 -0500
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Christianne Marguerite published Progressive Maryland Weekly Memo for Monday, October 4, 2021 in Home 2021-10-04 16:05:02 -0400
Progressive Maryland Weekly Memo for Monday, October 4, 2021
‘What do we want? A Caring Economy! Medicare expansion and lower Rx prices! More good jobs! Climate Action! A Pathway to Citizenship! Corporate accountability and tax fairness! When do we want it? Now!’
We’re marching in the streets, contacting Members of Congress, mobilizing our base, and lifting up progressive messages and progressive champions to counter the tired old Joe Manchin and mainstream narrative.
"We" of course means you, all of you ready for change from your neighborhood to Annapolis to DC, and holding elected officials accountable to work to improve your lives, not those of lobbyists and corporate CEOs. Read on to see how.
Read more
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Christianne Marguerite published Progressive Maryland Statement Against Corporate Meddling in Home 2021-09-29 12:13:05 -0400
Progressive Maryland Statement Against Corporate Meddling Following Dēmos and People’s Action Report
A new report from People's Action and Demos details the avalanche of corporate spending to stop or trim important measures that would expand Medicare, childcare, paid family leave, community health programs, green jobs and critical climate initiatives.
“It’s not surprising that these businesses that represent billionaire and multi-millionaire CEOs and stockholders are lobbying hard to keep the status quo in place -- big tax breaks for them, higher prices and lower wages for us -- and that they are spending tens of millions of dollars to vocalize their demands and to drown out the peoples’ voices” said Larry Stafford, Executive Director of Progressive Maryland.
Read more
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Christianne Marguerite published Progressive Maryland Weekly Memo for Monday, September 20, 2021 in Home 2021-09-20 17:34:41 -0400
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Christianne Marguerite published Progressive Maryland Weekly Memo for Tuesday, September 7, 2021 in Home 2021-09-07 16:52:59 -0400
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Christianne Marguerite published Progressive Maryland Weekly Memo for Monday, May 17, 2021 in Home 2021-05-17 15:46:39 -0400
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Christianne Marguerite published Progressive Maryland Weekly Memo for Monday, May 3, 2021 in Home 2021-05-03 16:27:15 -0400
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Christianne Marguerite published Progressive Maryland Weekly Memo for Monday, April 26, 2021 in Home 2021-04-26 16:13:18 -0400
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Christianne Marguerite published Fair Elections Campaign in Anne Arundel County 2021-03-16 11:38:41 -0400
Fair Elections Campaign in Anne Arundel County
Our political system is plagued by the influence of big money donors. Candidates running for office spend an enormous amount of their time talking to and raising funds from wealthy donors and corporate PACs to fund their campaigns. This system leads to government policies favoring the wealthy and serves as a barrier for many candidates. Women, people of color, and those from working-class backgrounds often do not have wealthy networks that allow one to raise sufficient funds and have a competitive campaign.
Thankfully county governments in Maryland can establish an alternative fundraising model called a Fair Election Fund. A Fair Election fund is a public campaign financing fund that matches small-dollar donations to qualifying candidates. In order for candidates to qualify for public matching funds, they have to agree to not accept donations from corporate PACs or donations above $250.
We are currently working to implement this program in Anne Arundel County after having successfully pushed for the creation of programs in Montgomery, Howard, Prince George’s, Baltimore City, and Baltimore County.
Montgomery County used the program successfully during the 2018 elections, and we saw a majority of the elected county councilors using the fund. You can read more about how the program worked in Montgomery County here: Fair Elections in Montgomery County
We also held a Fair Elections in Anne Arundel County Town Hall featuring State Senator Sarah Elfreth, County Council Member Lisa Rodvien, and Government Relations Director Pete Barron discussing how this program works and how it would benefit Anne Arundel County. You can view a recording of this Town Hall here.
To support our work you can sign our petition listed below! You can also follow us on social media and contact our Lead Organizer, Jesse Noviello, at [email protected] or 443-792-9826 to join our taskforce.
Click here to sign the Petition for Fair Elections in Anne Arundel County
Follow the campaign on social media!
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Champions for the Special Session
The 10 MGA Members Who Stood Up for Marylanders During the Pandemic:
- Del. Julian Ivey
- Del. Gabriel Acevero
- Del. Vaughn Stewart
- Del. Karen Lewis Young
- Del. Sheila Ruth
- Del. Frank Conaway
- Sen. Jill Carter
- Sen. Arthur Ellis
- Sen. Charles Sydnor
None of our other MGA members supported reconvening for a Special Session in 2020.
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People's Recovery Agenda
The Working People's COVID Recovery Agenda
An Agenda for Workers:
-Ensure Essential Workers are Protected and Paid Hazard Pay by Passing the Essential Workers Protection Act
-Fix our broken unemployment insurance system
-Enact Protections for Pregnant and Breastfeeding workers.
-Support Higher Wages for Workers at Our State’s Most Important Transit Hubs by passing the Secure Maryland Wage Act
-Eliminate the suspension of a driver’s licenses due to unpaid fines and fees
-Eliminate the subminimum wage for tipped workers and enact One Fair Wage
-Ensure that Every Marylander Has the Ability to Use Paid Sick Time
-Ensure Every Marylander Has Paid Family Leave
Housing for All:
-Enact a Moratorium on All Evictions and Foreclosures
-Invest in Social Housing to Create Both Affordable and Livable Housing for Marylanders in Need.
-Provide Payment Assistance for Marylanders Behind on Rent and Mortgages
-End All Utility Shut Offs During the Pandemic
-Ensure Every Person Facing an Eviction going forward Has Legal Representation.
Progressive Taxation:
-Close Corporate Tax Loopholes that Allow Large Corporations to Escape Paying Maryland Taxes. (Combined Reporting)
-End the corporate “nowhere income” tax loophole (throwback rule)
-Ensure Our State Has a Fair Equitable Tax Code that Makes The Wealthy Pay Their Fair Share.
-Add a FairTax on Digital Advertisers.
-Legalize and Tax Marijuana to Create New State Revenue
Healthcare:
-Form a study group to research a pathway for a Medicare for All style Maryland single payer healthcare system.
- Stop hospitals from suing patients for medical debts owed by passing the Medical Debt Protection Act
- Ensure no COVID patient has to pay out of pocket expenses for treatment and care for related medical issues.
-Hold Governor accountable for equitable and fair access to COVID vaccine.
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2021 Legislative Agenda
Progressive Maryland's 2021 Legislative Agenda
Anti-Racism & Anti-Oppression:
Progressive Maryland is fighting to end the mass incarceration of people of color in our state. Eliminating the use of cash bail, reducing pretrial detention, drug decriminalization, legalization of marijuana, and access to legal representation regardless of immigration status are all individual reforms that would bring us significantly closer to that goal.
Revisioning the role of police in our communities is also key. We are advocating for the removal of police from schools, higher standards of transparency and accountability for police, particularly through the repeal of LEOBR, and enhancing safety within our immigrant communities by ending state cooperation with ICE.
Economic Justice:
We believe that all workers are entitled to safe workplaces and proper compensation. Passing the Essential Workers Protection Act will provide for our essential workers through this immediate crisis; repairing the broken unemployment insurance system, guaranteed paid sick and family leave for all, anti-discrimination legislation for working moms, and closing loopholes in minimum wage law will benefit workers now and into the future. The Transit Safety & Investment Act and Secure Wages Act would provide reliable transportation for workers, good jobs for transit workers, and convenience for all Marylanders as we enjoy shops and restaurants, supporting our economy on multiple fronts.
Healthcare:
For profit healthcare is inherently unjust. We need Medicare for All and we need to stop corporations from suing us over medical debt to pad their millions and billions in profits. We also need greater investment in community health services, including overdose prevention sites.
Housing Justice Package:
Maryland is one of the most expensive states to live in. In these unprecedented times, we need to stop evictions, foreclosures, and utility shut-offs, provide payment assistance for Marylanders who are behind on rent and mortgages, and ensure that all people who are being threatened with eviction from their homes have legal representation. As we look to the future, we must invest in social housing and ensure that landlords’ screening processes don’t penalize potential tenants through credit checks and other similar mechanisms.
Environmental Justice:
Black and brown communities deserve the same clean air and water as white communities. The Environmental Human Rights Amendment and ending government subsidies for trash incineration will protect communities of color from predatory land use decisions.
Democracy Reform:
When corporations and the super wealthy fund our elections, our elected officials are more responsive to their donors than everyday Marylanders. We need publicly financed elections for General Assembly races to reduce the outsize influence of big money in our government.
Education:
We must override the Governor’s Veto of the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future and increase funding for K-12 education, including funding to expand internet access in low-income communities. At the college level, many of our community college professors and employees are paid barely above minimum wage despite their professional expertise and important role in our society and economy. Granting them access to collective bargaining rights will empower them to fight for fair compensation.
Progressive Taxation:
Corporations and the wealthy benefit financially from police and fire departments, roads and public transit, an educated workforce, and many other services provided by the government. We need to ensure they are paying their fair share of taxes by closing loopholes and raising taxes for multi-millionaires.
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Mission & Values
Mission:
Progressive Maryland is a multi-racial, working-class political organization that is building a movement to save our planet and put working people in control of our government and economy while ending all forms of structural oppression within our state.
Vision:
We demand a Maryland in which the state government and its economy work for all working class Marylanders, especially communities of color. In this Maryland, no one will sit alone in the shadows of their home wondering whether they will be able to cover the rent or mortgage that month because their paycheck was too low and life’s expenses were too high. In this Maryland, no mother will have to stand in the doorway of her home with eyebrows furled in worry, as she watches her child depart, and wonder whether they may be murdered by an officer sworn to protect them, or locked in cold shackles for what may have been a minor mistake or simple misunderstanding. We see a future in which the justice system can truly live up to that name by acting as a system for repairing harms as well as restoring both victims and offenders.
In our Maryland, healthcare will be a free and available right for every human being that must face the very human reality of sickness and disease. No one will have to suffer through illness alone, unable to afford the care they need, while battling the financial strain of poverty.
We envision a Maryland where poverty is known only in history books and paintings hung on museum walls. All Marylanders will be able to choose a career that provides financial security for themselves and their families and the freedom to live life to the fullest.
Women will have access to the same range of life choices as men and will no longer face the insult of lower wages because of who they are or discrimination in their workplaces for choosing to have children. Families will have the freedom to spend more quality time together and to meet their needs as a whole without worrying about suffering financial or other consequences at the hands of their employers.
We envision a Maryland where we have transitioned from an economic and energy system that threatens our planet to one that is driven by renewable energy and that creates thousands of high wage jobs in this industry.
We know that can build a world where every human being will be able to live a worthy and dignified life regardless of their race, gender identity, age, immigration status, or sexual orientation as we make hatred and discrimination legally and socially impermissible.
We are committed to the following values--
Anti-Racism & Anti-Oppression: We stand against all forms of oppression and exploitation.
Economic Justice: We are building a thriving economy that is controlled by everyday people, not the wealthiest 1%.
Environmental Justice: The future of our planet is in jeopardy. We must protect life on earth by transitioning to clean and renewable energy.
Democracy: We are committed to ending the corrupting influence the wealthy have in our political system and bringing everyone’s voices to the democratic process.
Education: A quality education is a right for all and a tool for liberation for oppressed and exploited people.
Community Empowerment: The most powerful social movements are led by people impacted by the issues they seek to change.
Non-Violence: We believe in the power of nonviolent resistance and organizing within the electoral arena to achieve our political objectives.
Political Independence:We believe in being accountable to the working class people of Maryland, not party bosses or corporate interests.
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Christianne Marguerite published Exciting News! We were voted one of the best nonprofits in the DC region! in Home 2020-11-24 21:06:42 -0500
Exciting News! We were voted one of the best nonprofits in the DC region!
🎉 Exciting news: The Catalogue for Philanthropy has chosen Progressive Maryland as one of the best nonprofits in the DC region! We were selected from a competitive applicant pool by passing through a rigorous review process conducted by a team of 170+ pro bono reviewers from foundations, corporate giving programs, peer nonprofits, local government agencies, and the philanthropic advisory community. We are so honored to be part of this powerful cohort of local changemakers! 🔥
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2020 Candidate Endorsements
Progressive Maryland is proud to endorse the following candidates for the 2020 Maryland General Election:
BALTIMORE CITY:
Brandon Scott for Baltimore City Mayor --- CONGRATULATIONS!
Bill Henry for Baltimore City Comptroller --- CONGRATULATIONS!
Zeke Cohen for Baltimore City Council, District 1 --- CONGRATULATIONS!
Danielle McCray for Baltimore City Council, District 2 --- CONGRATULATIONS!
Ryan Dorsey for Baltimore City Council, District 3 --- CONGRATULATIONS!
Kris Burnett for Baltimore City Council, District 8 --- CONGRATULATIONS!
John Bullock for Baltimore City Council, District 9 --- CONGRATULATIONS!
Phylicia Porter for Baltimore City Council, District 10 --- CONGRATULATIONS!
Franca Muller Paz for Baltimore City Council, District 12
Odette Ramos for Baltimore City Council, District 14 --- CONGRATULATIONS!
CALVERT COUNTY:
Antoine White for Calvert County School Board, District 2 --- CONGRATULATIONS!
MONTGOMERY COUNTY:
Marylin Pierre for Montgomery County Circuit Court Judge
Sunil Dasgupta for Montgomery County Board of Education At Large
PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY:
April Ademiluyi for Prince George's County Circuit Court Judge --- CONGRATULATIONS!
Gladys Weatherspoon for Prince George's County Circuit Court Judge --- CONGRATULATIONS!
David Murray for Prince George's County Board of Education, District 1 --- CONGRATULATIONS!
Shayla Adams-Stafford for Prince George's County Board of Education, District 4 --- CONGRATULATIONS!
Raaheela Ahmed for Prince George's County Board of Education, District 5 --- CONGRATULATIONS!
Kenneth Harris for Prince George's County Board of Education, District 7 --- CONGRATULATIONS!
Edward Burroughs for Prince George's County Board of Education, District 8 --- CONGRATULATIONS!
LOWER SHORE & NORTHERN MARYLAND COUNTIES:
Mia Mason for Congress, Congressional District 1
Learn more by following our candidate endorsements on Facebook and Twitter.
