Expanded Opportunities for Agriculture Operations to Include Increased Cooperative Extension Roles/Equestrian and Racing Programs

Foundation bay report supports farmland
On the Farm -- Ted Shelsby
Originally published September 3, 2006

If Maryland is dedicated to preserving its agricultural heritage, opportunities need to be expanded statewide to increase and create new markets for local products. The preservation of state and local community networks of agri-business is vital to this goal. Additionally, slots programs are a valid method of increasing the viability of our renowned Thoroughbred industry. The money raised should be used to attract the best field of competitors with excess amounts diverted to school construction projects, not into a general fund.  Supporting an historic industry such as racing doesn’t enhance the wealthy, as opponents claim. Rather, the racing industry employs thousands directly and impacts tens of thousands indirectly. From track walkers to veterinarians, breeders to farmers, saddle makers to farriers – the industry is far reaching and worth supporting. For opponents who don’t think the government should support the racing industry – claiming it should support or fail without aid – please look at the industries in Maryland that receive support in the form of tax incentives or credits, protectionist policies/regulations, or other exemptions that keep them competitive in their business segments. 

Support Ethical and Realistic Stem Cell Research
Medical research can be enhanced by the ethical use of stem cells; a push should be made to use adult stem cell research to its fullest capacity without a rush to judgment that it just isn’t as good as embryonic cells. Research on the existing lines of embryonic stem cells should be allowed to proceed to further explore their medical potential.

Completely Integrate State Homeland Security Issues with Disaster Preparedness
I have expertise and experience in this area that is otherwise lacking in our current delegation. Looking at the shortcomings in the preparedness levels in the wake of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, it is evident that the state and local governments must have a unified plan which not only addresses vulnerabilities, but also integrates response elements. By linking Law Enforcement, Medical, MD National Guard elements, Government Command, Control and Communication systems and Relief Agencies, an integrated program can be established that makes efficient and practical use of our resources. Currently, piecemeal approaches that fix only the current problem are being implemented without regard to a comprehensive program. Baltimore’s port security being outsourced to international agencies is an example of the increased need to develop an overarching program that includes all aspects of security. 

Law Enforcement/Anti-Gang Awareness/Witness Intimidation
While crime is relatively low in our district, it is imperative anti-gang programs are developed to ensure gang activity doesn’t migrate. 

Gang activity is up in Howard
Luke Broadwater, The Examiner
May 31, 2006 7:00 AM

With my background as a Military Police Officer working in Law Enforcement, I understand the need for a comprehensive strategy to deal with the ever growing gang influence. Witness intimidation is a serious issue that must be dealt with severely to ensure the tactic doesn’t become a hindrance to good law and order or the safety of our community. 

TAX RELIEF MEASURES:

Tax Relief for Veterans
Veterans who have served their country for 20+ years should not have to pay state taxes on their retirement checks. I believe this issue is being rectified in this years General Assembly after a hard fought lobbying effort from our Veterans. 
 

Tax Relief for Active Duty Service Members Not Serving in Maryland
Active duty service members often change their state of residence once they leave the state since Maryland doesn’t support any relief measures for those that are not serving in the state. Service members who change their state of residence for taxation purposes often don’t return to Maryland after their service has ended – the ties are severed. This means that highly trained, disciplined and skilled citizens aren’t returning to our communities to be leaders, mentors or employees – something we need. This is happening because Maryland, one of only 13 states, doesn’t offer any type of exemption, credit, or filing extensions for our service members. 

Tax Relief for Elderly Property Owners
Elderly property owners in Howard County who have lived in the county for many years often cannot afford to continue living in the County while assessments outpace their social security or pensions. Property assessments should be cut for these citizens and capped to prevent further increases. 

Property Rights/Eminent Domain
I did not agree with the Supreme Court decision in Kelo v. New London, CT that paved the way for governments to take private land if they determine it to be under-utilized and then given to private developers to increase property revenues. Honest, tax-paying citizens cannot be secure in their own homes with that decision left unchecked. The Supreme Court did say that it would be left to the states to determine how far Eminent Domain could be taken and it can be limited to those projects that truly are for the public good – such as roads and other critical infrastructure. No property or home owner should be in fear that the government should take away their rights just because someone else will give them more money. We should limit Eminent Domain to those projects vitally necessary to restore blighted urban areas or for purely public projects not benefiting a private party.