Last night, Senator Bailey attended the 50th Annual Taste of Maryland Agriculture Dinner. Senator Bailey had an opportunity to meet with leaders in Maryland’s agriculture industry and hear from Governor Hogan, Lieutenant Governor Boyd Rutherford, as well as others on the issues that are important to Maryland’s farming community.
This morning, Senator Bailey attended this week’s meeting of the Southern Maryland Delegation. At this meeting, the Delegation was addressed by local mayors, including the Mayor of Leonardtown Dan Burris, who updated the Delegation on their legislative priorities. The Delegation also heard from representatives of two organizations that are active throughout Southern Maryland. The Lead Maryland Foundation has a fellowship program for adults in agriculture, natural resources, and rural communities. The End Hunger Campaign works with Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary’s Counties to combat hunger in our region. The Delegation also heard from Senator Chris Van Hollen, who talked about how Federal Government initiatives can assist with local projects.
Senator Bailey also continued to advance his legislative package today. The Senate Education, Health, and Environmental Affairs Committee gave a favorable report to Senate Bill 242 – Natural Resources – Wild Waterfowl Policy – Repeal. This bill will simplify Maryland hunting laws by repealing obsolete language regarding needing a permit to feed waterfowl. The favorable report means that the Committee approves of the bill and recommends that the full Senate vote for it. This means the bill is likely to pass the Senate sometime next week. It is the first of many bills Senator Bailey hopes to see progress this session.