'New 2021 legislative session focused on COVID-19 recovery'

I am humbled to represent Ocean Pines in the Maryland Senate. Ocean Pines holds a special place in my heart as my parents, sister and her family live here, and it is the home of the Worcester County Veterans Memorial where I have enjoyed sharing stories about our veterans with local students.

Since March when the legislature adjourned early, I have been working every day to assist my constituents through the COVID-19 pandemic. My top priority has been and remains supporting and helping my constituents with a safe recovery and full reopening. Our team has assisted over 1,000 constituents as they navigate the reopening of restaurants and small businesses, access relief programs, and apply for unemployment benefits. I have continued to support safety improvements to Route 589 and the on- going efforts to address the drainage problems in Ocean Pines, and am grateful for the State support of this local priority.

The 2021 legislative session will be like no other in Maryland’s history. Great efforts are being taken to ensure the safety of the members and staff while ensuring transparency and participation for the public. My Republican colleagues and I helped make the case that all committee and Chamber voting should be conducted in-person, not virtual voting.

When we reconvene on January 13, 2021, I will continue to use my position on the Senate Education, Health and Environmental Affairs Committee and the bipartisan Sen- ate Small Business Workgroup to advocate for our Shore priorities. These include COVID-19 recovery on all fronts, expansion of broadband access, policing and public safety, and fairness in representation to ensure the Shore voice is heard. My new leadership position as Senate Re- publican Policy and Communications Chair allows me to work even harder for our shared goals.

While serving in Annapolis, we often spend time pre- venting certain bills from moving forward due to the negative impact on local constituents, particularly if it involves an increase in taxes and state spending. At a time when the Maryland Rainy Day Fund is being drained to combat COVID-19 expenses, our State’s economic recovery simply cannot afford more spending mandates and tax increases.

With the new session quickly approaching, constituent service in support of our shared Shore goals remains my top priority, especially during these challenging times. I encourage you to stay in contact with me at [email protected] or www.marybeth carozza.com.

Onward and Upward to a Strong Shore 2021!