Lights on for Maryland Program HB1029
testimony by samuel jordan 3/7/2023
Hearing March 9th, 1pm
This bill provides vouchers valued up to $250 that will be provided by police in a traffic stop to drivers who are in need of minor automobile repairs e.g. tail lights, wipers, headlamps, etc.
The vouchers will be honored by local mechanics. The goal is a step to defuse the often volatile relationship between the police and drivers who have experienced or are afraid that a violent experience will occur in a police stop in these fraught times- while supporting local small businesses. An attempt to give “Protect and Serve” meaning.
ballot petition modernization act HB1112
testimony by samuel jordan 3/7/2023
This bill is repealing the requirement that, to sign a petition, an individual must sign the individual’s name in a certain form; requiring that information requested from an individual signing a petition that is not required under certain provisions of law be marked as optional on a petition signature page; altering the circumstances under which signatures on a petition must be validated and counted or invalidated; authorizing the use of electronic signatures on a petition; etc.
Maryland Rail Investment act HB74
testimony by samuel jordan 2/22/2023
The Hogan administration has labelled an option in the East-West Corridor study, as the “Red Line” which is a deliberately deceptive definition of the Red Line.
BTEC is in pursuit of a conflict resolution for the definition of the “RED Line” as it appears on page 11, Title 9, subtitle 1, section (F). We propose: (F) “RED LINE” MEANS A TRANSIT FACILITY USING LIGHT RAIL that was approved, funded, and awarded a Record of Decision by the USDOT in 2013.
Testimony begins at 2:28 -2:58 on the video.
transportation equity act 2023
Hearing scheduled for February 1 and 2
The Transportation Equity Act requires prior analysis of any service changes or project developments to Maryland’s roadways, sea port, airport, and bus or rail system.
It will convene a group of stakeholders from different backgrounds to examine the impact of such changes on the surrounding communities, uncover disparate impacts across race and class lines, and propose amendments to ensure equitable outcomes for all.
This bill requires prior equity and cost benefit analysis before any changes are made. It provides Title VI equivalent protections at the State level- an historic first, and this bill also secured super majority votes in both Houses in the 2022 session, fifty witnesses, no opposition.
Hearings are scheduled for February 1st and 2nd in the House and Senate sponsored by Delegate Sheila Ruth and Senator Jill Carter. Opportunities are available for endorsement and testimony.
6 Actions We Want our Governor To Take
