(8/1) I want to thank all of the voters that dedicated a few moments of their time to vote in the Primary in June. I know it was a long spring with candidates vying for attention and working to get their message out to you. I am honored to be one of the nominees that will be on your ballot again in November. Now that the Primary Elections are behind us, Marylanders have a few months to enjoy the summer!

However, it is important for every constituent to understand that this summer, like all others over the past 4 years, is not about a campaign or relaxation. There is still a great deal of work that needs to be done. The taxpayer hired the representatives to work for them throughout the year – not just the 3 months we are in Annapolis.

That being said, there are a number of issues that I have been speaking to constituents about over the past few months while back in Frederick County full time. You have heard me talk about the drug abuse situation in the past, and that is a topic that I will continue to focus on. Specifically, authoring legislation that will help to control the distribution of drugs from a physician’s office without oversight. Many other states have passed bills that require physicians to report who is receiving the drugs. Maryland law currently mandates pharmacies to report to a drug monitoring program, but not the physicians. Reports from other states show a sizable decrease in overdose instances when the prescriptions can be tracked.

You may have read some of the recent stories in the newspaper. One stated that, during an arrest, a man was found to have over 900 pills in his possession. You and I both know that he did not legally obtain those pills.

I have also been working with a group of Veterans who have some great ideas to increase the number of jobs and opportunities to our military men and women as they prepare to leave service and transition back to civilian life. I will be submitting legislation that will support their business efforts across the state.

Research is ongoing to further decrease the number of business regulations that hinder the growth and potential of existing businesses in our state. I hear from many business owners about specific state regulations that could be eliminated with little effort, but would have a great impact on the business. If you have something specific that would lift some of the burdens from you, please let me know! My team has been successful in reducing regulations in the past, and we are ready for another round.

Of course, there are the very large issues that directly affect each of us as taxpayers. My office has been reviewing some of the programs that other states have used to help to decrease the tax burden on individuals, families and businesses. This is obviously a top priority for many legislators due to the constant feedback that we receive from our constituents.

There may be an issue that is close to your heart that you would like to discuss. I am here to listen! My office assists people every day with maneuvering a complicated bureaucracy. If you are frustrated with any state agency, we are here to help!

As the summer progresses, and you begin to think about our next legislative session, remember that you hire representatives to work on your behalf. Please do not hesitate to reach out with a specific problem, issue or idea that would make our state a better place to live, work and play.