Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Lawmakers Urge Business People to Get Involved
Photo: Del. Ron George (R-Dist. 30) and Sen. John Astle (D-Dist. 30) addressed a group of leaders from chambers of commerce across the state on Monday. Photos by H. Walter Townshend, III, President & CEO, Baltimore/Washington Corridor Chamber of Commerce
Two Annapolis lawmakers discussed this year’s top business issues and encouraged Maryland business leaders to contact their legislators about issues that impact their companies. Sen. John Astle (D-Dist. 30) and Del. Ron George (R-Dist. 30) addressed a group of leaders from chambers of commerce across the state on Monday.
Astle, Vice Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, mentioned a number of business issues that are important to the Chamber. He said that he didn’t expect electricity re-regulation to be a major issue this session, but that we would see a number of workplace regulation bills. “We’re going to see a number of labor bills,” he said.
He also said that combined reporting will be back this session. The Chamber has already gone on record opposing a House bill that would impose combined reporting, HB 10. Astle said that we should expect a Senate bill on the issue soon.
Astle also mentioned the workplace fraud (employee misclassification) legislation that passed last session. While the new regulations only apply to the construction and landscaping industry, the Chamber will continue to monitor legislative and regulatory efforts to expand to other industries.
Del. George, who owns jewelry stores in Annapolis and Severna Park, said many lawmakers in Annapolis don’t understand the business perspective. He encouraged business owners to get more involved in what’s going on in Annapolis. George said that it’s important that lawmakers understand the business perspective when debating budget and taxation issues.
He said that it’s one thing to have lobbyists and advocacy organizations in Annapolis, but nothing is more powerful than a story from a constituent. “Putting a face on the issue is important. Contact your legislators and explain how the issue is affecting you,” George said.
To learn more about connecting with your lawmakers, click here.
