Ike Leggett to Speak in Takoma Park; Progressive Neighbors to Ask Questions

March 11, 2007

The Greater Silver Spring Democratic Club is hosting the County Executive 7:30 p.m. Wed. March 12th at Takoma Park Middle School. (7311 Piney Branch Road, 20912) Among the questions PN hopes to ask are why he led opposition to Gov. O'Malley's and PN's efforts to make the state income tax more progressive (see below) and what he will do to provide leadership to address the affordable housing crisis in Montgomery County (which increasingly is making it impossible for many renters to stay in the County - see the Talking Points on Affordable Housing in Montgomery County for more information.

Progressive Neighbors to Co-Sponsor Environmental Films with Blair's Students For Global Responsibility, Others

To raise community awareness about pressing environmental issues and build activism, PN is proud to announcement the following two film events. (A third will be announced shortly)

Film: "The Power of Community: How Cuba Survived Peak Oil"

Speakers: Montgomery County Councilman Marc Elrich and State Senator Jamie Raskin

Date and Time: Friday, March 14th 7:15 PM
Place: Montgomery Blair High School, Room 164
Co-sponsored by Students for Global Responsibility, Progressive Neighbors and Chesapeake Climate Action Network

As the world approaches the crises of Peak Oil and Global Warming, the film shows how Cuba addressed the challenge of reducing energy use. Join us for the film and the discussion about what we can do to support efforts to reduce the use of oil and global warming.

Film: "We Are All Smith Islanders"

Speaker: Mike Tidwell, Executive Director, Chesapeake Climate Action Network

Date and Time: Friday, April 11th 7:15 PM
Place: Montgomery Blair High School, Room 164

The film focuses on how climate change affects all of us. (Smith Island is an endangered fishing community in the Chesapeake Bay.)

LEGISLATIVE ALERTS

Call or Email Your Representatives to express your support. See this website for the bills and phone numbers or email addresses of State elected officials: http://mlis.state.md.us

Regulation of Local Campaign Finance Activity (MC 803-08, HB 826)

The bill would allow Montgomery County to adopt its own, higher standards on campaign finance disclosure and limits on contributions. Progressive Neighbors Steering Committee member Mike Tabor testified in favor of the legislation in Annapolis at the House Ways and Mean Committee. Please add your voice by making calls and sending emails to state legislators.

Proposal to Raise Taxes on Wealthy Marylanders

Sen. Verna Jones, a Baltimore Democrat, has floated a proposal to raise the state income tax on taxpayers earning $500,000 and up which could raise several hundred million dollars annually. In light of the Special Session's refusal to pass progressive tax legislation and the looming state budget crisis, what could make more sense? Email your support to Senator Jones and to your own legislators.

Background: Is The Democratic Party Actually in Favor of Progressive Taxation?

The progressive (or graduated) income tax has seemed like a no brainer since the first Federal graduated income tax was adopted in 1913. But the Montgomery County Democratic Party seems to be marching to a different drummer. According to the Institute for Taxation and Economic Policy, "Instead of improving the overall tax system, the special session's final product made it [Maryland's tax system] more regressive." And who led the charge against the progressive state income tax proposal of Gov. O'Malley? Montgomery County Executive Ike Leggett and certain members of our county's Annapolis delegation. Let's keep that in mind when we hear about the need for further state and county budget cuts. When Democrats don't support making the wealthy pay their fair share but instead dump the burden on working Marylanders, is it any wonder that the Republicans are able to paint the Democrats as the 'tax and spend party' and working people abandon the Democratic Party?

Global Warming Solutions Act: (SB 309, HB 712)

This bill represents an investment in a clean energy future for Maryland leading to the creation of jobs and technology in 'green industries' - go to www.mdlcv.org for additional information.

Public Campaign Financing Act for General Assembly Candidates (SB 593, HB 971)

This bill was introduced by Senator Paul Pinsky and Del. Jon Cardin and deserves our support because it takes power away from special interests. Go to Progressive Maryland's website - www.progressivemaryland.org - for further information.
Increase the Alcohol Tax HB 904

Co-sponsored by State Delegates Ana Sol Gutierrez and Tom Hucker, the bill would increase the excise tax on alcohol which hasn't been raised since 1955 (1972 for beer and wine). Progressive Neighbors makes the case for the increase - in terms of social and economic benefits - in A SIX PACK OF REASONS TO INCREASE THE BOOZE TAX IN MARYLAND

Condominium Conversions - Tenant Vote (MC Bill 815-08, HB 833)

This bill would require Montgomery County building owners to abide by the results of a tenant vote before converting a rental property to condominiums

Death Penalty Repeal Bills (HB 1328 and SB 645)

Go to Md Citizens Against State Executions (CASE) website for further details - www.mdcase.org

Religious Freedom and Civil Marriage Protection Act (HB 1328 and SB 645)

This bill would allow same-sex couples in Maryland the right to marry. Go to www.equalitymaryland.org

Lower Income Household Tax Credits (HB 924/SB 619/SB 618)

These bills to offer lower income households tax credits to offset the regressive impact of the recently enacted increase in the sales tax. Go to Maryland Budget and Tax Policy Institutes's website - www.marylandpolicy.org

Bryan Moore Student Health and Fitness Act of Maryland (HB 503, SB 955)

This bill would require physical education in Maryland public schools as a way to fight the epidemic of childhood obesity and improve kids' overall health and learning readiness. Go to www.marylandsmartkids.org or contact Mark Woodard at markdwoodard@comcast.net for additional information.
ICC (Intercounty Connector) Is NOT a done deal!

Three State General Assembly bills are being supported by opponents of the Inter County Connector. For further information on the bills and related actions, email stoptheicc@igc.org

1. HB 1471 - to defund the ICC

2. HB 1416 -- to require the State to assess and disclose the ICC's cumulative greenhouse gas impacts

3. A bill to require the State to assess and disclose the public health impacts of air pollution from the ICC

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Supporters and Friends of Progressive Neighbors

February 19, 2008

Donna Edwards' Stunning Victory: Congratulations to Donna on her overwhelming win in the Fourth Congressional Democratic Primary and to all the activists who worked on her campaign. It shows what progressives can realize in our area when we have a good candidate and we roll up our sleeves and get to work. (Just think of all the new, progressive representatives we have helped elect in just the past two years.) Who's next?

We are disappointed that Alies Muskin, the most progressive candidate in the race for the Board of Education at-large seat, finished third and did not secure a position on the ballot for the general election despite endorsements by MCEA and SEIU Local 500. Our initial analysis is that the lack of name recognition and poll coverage (particularly upcounty) were significant factors, but this needs to be studied further so that progressives can learn from the setback.

Campaign Finance Reform Measure Moves Ahead in Annapolis – Let's Keep Up The Pressure:

Note: For all legislation listed here, a phone call is more effective than an email. Phone numbers of State representatives are listed at the Montgomery County Delegation website - http://www.montgomerycountydelegation.com/contact.html

HB 826 will allow Montgomery County to enact its own campaign finance reform rules for County elections, including public financing. PN, along with other progressive groups, see it as an important step toward clean elections. The Montgomery County State House delegation voted overwhelmingly in favor of the measure, but we need your continued calls and emails as the County Senate delegation and the House Ways and Means Committee vote this week. (Thanks to everyone who has already contacted their reps. - we've heard back that it's making a big difference.)

State Clean Elections Bill Needs Our Support: The Public Campaign Financing Act for Candidates for the General Assembly (SB 593, HB 971) was introduced by State Senator Paul Pinksy and Delegate Jon Cardin and would create a voluntary, publicly funded campaign finance option for State General Assembly candidates. It would make candidates and representatives less dependent on special interests and increase the influence of their constituents. Please send an email or make a call in support of the bill.

Global Warming Solutions Action Day, Monday February 18th: Join environmental activists from across the state this Monday in Annapolis to hear presentations from elected officials, receive training on how to lobby, and then lobby for environmental bills. Go to Maryland League of Conservation Voters' website (www.mdlcv.org) for further information and to register.

Bryan Moore Student Health and Fitness Act of Maryland: HB 503 would require physical education in all Maryland public schools as a way to fight the epidemic of childhood obesity and improve kids' overall health and learning readiness. Contact your state legislators in support of the measure - two key delegates that need to contacted are District 20 Delegate Sheila Hixson and District 14 Delegate Anne Kasier. (Respective email addresses are Sheila.Hixson@house.state.md.us and Anne.Kaiser@house.state.md.us ) Also inform the Mont. County Board of Education (boe@mcpsmd.org) of your support since Delegate Hixson killed this bill at the BOE's request in the past. Go to www.marylandsmartkids.org or Mark Woodard at markdwoodard@comcast.net for additional information.

What You Can Do About the ICC: Three State General Assembly bills are being supported by opponents of the Inter County Connector, a project Progressive Neighbors has formally opposed. Call or write your legislators to voice support for these bills and ask your reps. to co-sponsor them if they haven't already. For further information, email stoptheicc@igc.org

1. HB 1471 – to defund the ICC
2. HB 1416 -- to require the State to assess and disclose the ICC's cumulative greenhouse gas impacts
3. A bill to require the State to assess and disclose the cumulative public health impacts of air pollution from the ICC

Jane Lawton Farm-To-School Program (SB 158) PN Steering Committee member Mike Tabor testified in favor of this bill to help get fresh, locally grown farm products into school cafeterias. “Our group believes that there is a connection between what children eat and how well they perform and behave in school. Teachers, parents, students and the average tax payer would all be a lot happier if fresh, appetizing and nutritious food was available to children in their school cafeteria.”

Other State Bills PN Supports and Is Following:

-Death Penalty Repeal (HB 1328 and SB 645)

-Religious Freedom and Civil Marriage Protection Act (HB 1328 and SB 645)

-HB 924/SB 619/SB 618 – bills to offer lower income households tax credits to offset the regressive impact of the recently enacted increase in the sales tax

- Health Care bills (to be reported on in next update)

Participate on the Progressive Neighbors Steering Committee: Help make decisions and carry out the work of Progressive Neighbors. Our meetings are held every 2-3 weeks and are attended by 10-12 committee members. We need some more good people. Contact Wally Malakoff – malakoff@starpower.net

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Public Meeting on the Special Legislative Session

January 28, 2007 - Progressive Neighbors would like to extend a thank you to all who attended our public meeting on January 13th. And special thanks to our panelists: District 18 Delegate Ana Sol Gutierrez; AU Professor and Commentator Allan Lichtman; Roll Call Political Editor Josh Kurtz; Progressive MD President Elbridge James; and Aaron Meisner from Stop Slots Maryland.

Check out some of the photos from the event.

 

 

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Progressive Neighbors Endorses Donna Edwards for Congress

December 8, 2007 -- Donna Edwards has been a long-time outspoken and progressive advocate for universal health care, against the War in Iraq, and on labor, human rights, environmental, and consumer issues. Consequently, Progressive Neighbors endorses her for Congress in the Feb. 12th Democratic primary for Maryland's Fourth Congressional District which covers parts of Prince George's and Montgomery Counties. (PN also endorsed her in the 2006 primary, when she came in a surprising and close second.) To get involved in the campaign or make a contribution, contact the Donna Edwards Campaign Office at donnaedwardsforcongress.com or call 301-316-1880. The primary is only two months away!

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Please support Progressive Neighbors endorsed candidates Donna Edwards and Alies Muskin in the primary on Tuesday

Donna Edwards for Congress: Donna Edwards has been a long-time outspoken and progressive advocate for universal health care, against the War in Iraq, and on labor, human rights, environmental, and consumer issues. Progressive Neighbors endorses her for Congress for Maryland's Fourth Congressional District. (PN also endorsed her in the 2006 primary, when she came in a surprising and close second.) To volunteer on Primary Day, call Mont. County Campaign Coordinator Gina Angiola at 301-871-5302 (Cell 240-620-1486). Or send Gina an email at Gina@donnaedwardsforcongress.com

Alies Muskin for Montgomery County Board of Education. Muskin stands out both in terms of her qualifications and her progressive positions on the future of education in Montgomery County. Muskin has been a strong supporter of quality education for all students. She has been endorsed by the teachers and support staff unions (MCEA and SEIU Local 500), MC Student Government PAC, Jamie Raskin, Anna Sol Gutierrez, Tom Hucker, Heather Mizeur, Jeffrey Waldstreicher, and Valerie Ervin among others. To volunteer for the Muskin campaign, go to her website at http://www.muskinforboe.org

No Endorsement in the Eighth Congressional District Primary – see explanation below

If You're Working at the Polls: The CRG (Citizens for Responsible Government) is scheduled to be at the polls on Tuesday collecting signatures to overturn the Montgomery County Transgender Civil Rights Law. They are promulgating "The Big Lie" by using hate speech and misinformation to get people to sign, characterizing the County Council and Executive as evil, and transgender men and women as deviants, predators and pedophiles. If people are willing to stand next to them to challenge their information, it would be greatly appreciated. It would also be helpful if people could call Dana Beyer on her cell at 240-731-8338 to report their presence so the coalition can respond.

Campaign Finance Reform Measure Approved by Montgomery County State Delegates, Now Goes Before Senators – We Need Your Phone Calls and Letters

State HB 826, introduced by Delegate Susan Lee, will allow Montgomery County to enact its own campaign finance reform rules, including public financing, for County elections. The bill was voted on favorably by Montgomery County State delegates by 25-1 and now has to gain approval of MC State senators. (Anne Kaiser of District 14 was the lone dissenting voice.) Thanks to those of you who sent emails to State delegates – we received nice notes from Heather Mizeur and Phil Andrews thanking Progressive Neighbors for our active support of this proposed legislation.

Please call and email all state senators from Montgomery County, and please take action Monday or Tuesday as a vote is imminent. Further information on the bill can be found at: www.montgomerycountydelegation.com/MC%20803-08.html

Sample letter or phone call:

I am writing (calling) to voice my support for HB 826 - a measure to enable Montgomery County to regulate local campaign finance activity. I believe Montgomery County should have the right to set up a system for financing the campaigns of candidates for County office.

Please let me know if you support this important measure.

Sincerely,

Name

Phone number and home address (including zip code)

State Senators from Montgomery County:

Rona Kramer, District 14, 410-841-3625, rona.kramer@senate.state.md.us

Robert Garagiola, District 15, 410-841-3169, rob.garagiola@senate.state.md.us

Brian Frosh, District 16, 410-841-3124, brian.frosh@senate.state.md.us

Jennie Forehand, District 17, 410-841-3134, jennie.forehand@senate.state.md.us

Richard Madaleno, District 18, 410-841-3676, richard.madaleno@senate.state.md.us

Michael Lenett, District 19, 410-841-3151, mike.lenett@state.senate.md.us

Jamie Raskin, District 20, 410-841-3634, jamie.raskin@state.senate.md.us

Nancy King, District 39, 410-841-3686, nancy.king@state.senate.md.us

REMEMBER, IF WE'RE TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE ON THIS PROPOSED LEGISLATION, WE NEED TO ACT NOW.

Why No Endorsement in the Eighth Congressional District Race?

This was a very difficult decision for Progressive Neighbors, with the steering committee split on the proper course of action. We appreciate the emails (both for and against endorsement of Chris Van Hollen and Deborah Vollmer) that people sent the steering committee which were made part of our deliberation.

Progressive Neighbors endorsed Van Hollen in his 2006 bid for re-election because of his liberal record and potential for leadership, and members spent time working on his campaign. The Congressman met with five members of the PN steering committee last week for an hour to discuss potential endorsement and our concerns. The meeting was friendly, non-confrontational, and characterized by what we felt was a serious discussion of the issues and his record in Congress. Both PN and the Congressman were candid and straightforward. We questioned his lack of leadership in opposing the Iraq War, the erosion of civil liberties, the powerful and often hidden role of special interests in elections and lobbying of the executive and legislative branches, as well as a failure to advocate for single-payer health insurance.

The essential points discussed were as follows:

1) The Iraq War: Americans were mislead into initially authorizing the war. The resulting carnage is huge and needs to be halted. 4,000 American troops and at least 100,000 Iraqi citizens have been killed in an unprovoked and unnecessary war which does not further the cause against terrorism. Another 30,000 American soldiers have been wounded, and at least four million Iraqi citizens displaced from their homes. We pushed Congressman Van Hollen on what we see as a lack of leadership in (a) opposing continuation of the war including new financing, (b) changing the deployment policy which sends troops back for a second or third tour of duty, and (c) reducing and controlling the 100,000 private contractors in the war zone.

2) Civil Liberties: The group expressed the view that civil liberties of all Americans are threatened when basic principles of law, such as habeas corpus, are ignored, and when legislation, permitting the executive branch to surveil American citizens' communications, including phone calls and emails, without court review, is passed. Our position was based on an implicit concern that the executive may seek to use such laws to stifle democratic opposition to its politics, a potential more in evidence as their passage was achieved with alarms and scare tactics.

3) Single Payer Health Insurance: The group pointed out that a single-payer program – Medicare – already works, and works well, with maximum choice of doctors and hospitals, and minimum overhead, and it covers nearly 35 million Americans - all of those over 65 and anyone under 65 who is permanently and completely disabled. We questioned the Congressman on why he has not signed on to Rep. Conyers' bill for universal, single payer insurance. We stated that the funding to expand health coverage exists - current spending for the Iraq War for one year, for example, could provide two years of universal health coverage.

4) Role of Special Interests: Special interests often drive the legislative agenda, on all levels. For example, food industry lobbyists in Maryland are currently fighting a proposal to get more locally grown food into school lunches. PN said it was looking for leadership from the Congressman on reforming campaign finance laws. Otherwise, it is almost inevitable that the Democratic Party will fall victim to corporate and other special interests. We also challenged him, since he is not facing competitive opposition in the primary, to set an example by rejecting special interest money in this race.

Congressman Van Hollen's response and comments were as follows:

1) The Iraq War: The Congressman said he shared our concerns, but felt exasperated because House bills addressing these issues were routinely killed in the Senate by those who felt it was not productive to challenge the Presidential threat of a veto. He cited an initiative by Sen. Jim Webb to amend the current deployment policy, and he said he supported the idea of specifying limitations on contractors in appropriations bills.

2) Civil Liberties: The Congressman stated torture is a “stain on our reputation” and that the House had passed a bill to control electronic eavesdropping and sent it to the Senate. (Note: Late last week, the Senate killed amendments to the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act that would have curtailed the President’s authority to wiretap private citizens). Once again, he said, fault lies with the Senate.

3) Single Payer Health Insurance: The Congressman replied that there exists “an incumbent problem” on the House Ways and Means Committee (of which he is a member). Old thinking prevents many progressive measures from advancing. The Senate kills good proposals to protect the White House and reinforce the President’s bully pulpit. As for Rep. Conyers' bill, the Congressman said he favors the concept but is concerned about the lack of funding in the bill so he could not sign on. He said that he thought single payer would come incrementally by, for example, adding to the State Children Health Insurance Program (known as S-CHIP).

4) Role of Special Interests: The Congressman said finance reform had been a special “hobby horse” of his since his days in Annapolis. He has promoted the Clean Elections Bill, and ethics reform is now under discussion. But the Federal Elections Commission will write the regulations to enforce any legislative actions, and currently that body is understaffed and inoperable. [The President has not appointed people to fill existing vacancies.] As for rejecting special interest money, Congressman Van Hollen said he has an important role to play in raising money for Democratic Party candidates.

Progressive Neighbors Position: While PN found that Congressman Van Hollen shares many of our concerns and views, there are important differences in our understanding of the means that should be followed to achieve those goals. We believe, as many voters have expressed in the recent primaries, that fundamental changes are needed in the leadership and direction of the Democratic Party and in the role of special interests. Politics as usual for the Democrats, where every vote is based on cautious and pragmatic calculations of political gains and losses for incumbents, is not what is needed at the current time. We are looking for bold, progressive leadership and principled opposition to disastrous Republican policies on the War, domestic surveillance, health care, and campaign finance to name but a few areas. This, we believe, is what will enable the Democratic Party to form a winning coalition of middle class and working Americans once again.

At the present time, we do not believe that this is where the Democratic Party establishment and, unfortunately, Congressman Van Hollen, is leading the party, and thus we are unable to offer our endorsement. Since we believe that Congressman Van Hollen has both the experience and training to lead, as opposed to merely support these progressive policies, his lack of leadership is disappointing.

However, we do look forward to continuing this discussion with the Congressman because we share many of his views and admire his leadership abilities. Because we also believe he shares many of our progressive values and goals, we are hopeful that we will be able to support him in the future.

The PN steering committee also decided that we would not endorse Deborah Vollmer. While we agree with her anti-war critique, her support of national single payer health insurance, and many of her other positions, she has not mustered enough support in our own ranks and among other progressive groups. We therefore do not see her as a viable candidate.

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PUBLIC MEETING

Maryland's Special Legislative Session:

Victory or Defeat for Progressives?
Where Do We Go From Here?

Sunday January 13th, 1:30pm Argyle Park Rec. Center 1030 Forest Glen Road Silver Spring, MD (between University Blvd. and Sligo Creek Parkway) map

Panelists Include...

The Special Legislative Session made major changes in state income, corporate, and sales taxes and in the state budget. It approved a referendum for 2008 to decide whether slots should be legalized.

How do all these changes add up? Did the burden fall on working Marylanders? How did social programs fare? What happened to progressive proposals, such as an income tax more heavily tilted toward the wealthy and a tax to ensure that corporations pay their fair share? What are the chances of defeating slots in 2008?

For further information about the meeting, call 301-587-5559

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Progressive Neighbors Endorses Donna Edwards for Congress

December 8, 2007 -- Donna Edwards has been a long-time outspoken and progressive advocate for universal health care, against the War in Iraq, and on labor, human rights, environmental, and consumer issues. Consequently, Progressive Neighbors endorses her for Congress in the Feb. 12th Democratic primary for Maryland's Fourth Congressional District which covers parts of Prince George's and Montgomery Counties. (PN also endorsed her in the 2006 primary, when she came in a surprising and close second.) To get involved in the campaign or make a contribution, contact the Donna Edwards Campaign Office at donnaedwardsforcongress.com or call 301-316-1880. The primary is only two months away!

Progressive Neighbors To Speak Out At Affordable Housing Task Force's Public 'Work Session.' Join us.

Upcoming work sessions – attend and express your views. (You don't have to call in advance to speak.)

• December 12, 7 to 9 p.m., Eastern Montgomery Regional Services Center, 3300 Briggs Chaney Road, Silver Spring

• December 13, 7 to 9 p.m, Long Branch Community Center, 8700 Piney Branch Road, Silver Spring (This is the meeting we plan to attend.)

• December 17, 7 to 9 p.m., Bethesda-Chevy Chase Regional Services Center, 4805 Edgemoor Lane

For further information, Task Force phone number is 240-777-3777.

Background: The Task Force was established by County Executive Ike Leggett to “consider policies and programs for the production and preservation of affordable housing.” It will issue a final report to the County Executive in early 2008. Progressive Neighbors has sent letters to the Task Force, the County Executive, and the County Council. The letters voice our concern that the policies being considered by the Task Force would be inadequate to stem the loss of affordable housing in the County. PN believes that rent stabilization and restrictions on condo conversions are essential to help stop the loss of affordable apartments in Montgomery County.

The Task Force's preliminary recommendations can be viewed at
www.montgomerycountymd.gov/Content/DHCA/community/pdf/AHTFRecommendations.pdf

Mark Your Calendar for Next PN Meeting - Sunday Afternoon Jan. 13th: “What happened at the special legislative session in Annapolis? Was the tax and budget package a progressive victory or defeat? What's next?” As usual, we expect a lively meeting, so please plan on coming. Details to be forthcoming.

Save the Falkland Apartments: The struggle continues to preserve the historic and affordable Falkland apartments in downtown Silver Spring. For more information and to get involved, contact Mary Reardon at mareardon3@yahoo.com.

Finally, happy holidays to everyone from Progressive Neighbors, and best wishes for a more peaceful and just world in 2008!

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Your Action on the Budget and Taxes is Needed

October 31, 2007 -- Progressive Neighbors has been active in pushing the state budget debate in a more progressive direction, but the outcome is very uncertain. We believe the current budget crisis has been brought about in large part by a regressive tax structure that places a heavy tax burden on those least able to afford it, while letting upper income residents and many corporations off the hook. While Governor O'Malley's tax and budget package contains some positive aspects, we have criticized his package for not making the state income tax as progressive as it needs to be, for relying on regressive measures such as an increase in the sales tax and legalization of slots, for not including 'green taxes' and an increase in alcohol taxes (which have not been increased in 35 years), and for not expanding the sales tax to selected financial, business and luxury services.

Now is the Time for Action With the Special Legislative Session now in progress, your emails, phone calls, and attendance at hearings and rallies are critical. Here are some things you can do.

1) Contact Legislators and Governor O'Malley

Via the Internet: Go to www.mlis.state.md.us to find your legislators and send them an e-mail. The Governor is at governor@gov.state.md.us. Sample language appears below.

By phone: The General Assembly switchboard is 410-841-3000/301-858-3000/ 800-492-7122

2) Go To Annapolis: Tuesday Nov. 6th 6 p.m. for a Statewide Town Hall Meeting Sponsored by the Alliance for Tax Fairness. There will be a bus leaving Blair High School in Silver Spring at 4:30 pm. The meeting will demand fair, progressive taxes and measures to address unmet social needs. For further information, go to www.alliancefortaxfairness.org.

3) Participate in the StopSlots Grassroots Action Day: Friday Nov. 2nd in Annapolis. Sponsored by StopSlotsMaryland, the day begins with an 8:30 rally. For further information, email Aaron Meisner at StopSlots at Aaron@21209.org or check www.StopSlotsMaryland.com

4) Testify at a Hearing in Annapolis: The hearing schedule is at http://mlis.state.md.us/2007s1/hearsch/sp_notice.htm.

Sample Language for Emails/Phone Calls:“We hope we can depend on you to ensure that the tax package that is enacted is truly progressive and is adequate to generate enough new revenue to go beyond just plugging the $1.7 billion budget hole so we can make long-delayed investments in education, health care, Chesapeake Bay cleanup, and other areas that are critical to Maryland’s future. This means not only making income tax rates higher for upper income individuals since they have a greater ability to pay, but eliminating the sales tax increase, and not legalizing slots. (We ask you to kill the attempt to legalize slots right now and not to support a special referendum on the issue.) We also urge you to reform corporate taxes so corporations pay their fair share of the tax burden, which they are not now doing. An increase in alcohol taxes, the institution of 'green taxes,' and the extension of the sales tax to selected financial, business and luxury services should also be part of a new tax and budget package.

For an analysis of the many needs that aren't acknowledged in O'Malley's budget deficit projections, see the Maryland Budget and Tax Policy Institute's report at http://www.marylandpolicy.org/documents/LeftBehindintheBudgetDebate_001.pdf

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Meeting on “Progressive Solutions to the Budget Crisis” Raises Critical Issues

Nearly 100 people turned out at Eastern Village on Sept. 28th to hear Progressive Neighbors present its progressive tax and budget package (which would close the budget deficit and provide additional income for needed programs), hear responses from 9 state legislators, and direct related questions to the legislators. See the Full Report on the event.

Progressive Neighbors would like to thank everyone who attended the public meeting, and we would especially like to thank the legislators that spoke.

The Maryland budget was the main topic of the public meeting. For background information on the state of the budget, check out our Progressive Solutions ot the Budget Deficit, which was presented by PN's George Vlastis at the meeting.

Also, please read Michael Tabor's Top Ten Reasons to Stop Slots in Maryland.