Legislative Wrap-Up Provides Insights into the 2025 Legislative Session

Bel Air, MD – On Wednesday, April 30th, The Harford County Chamber of Commerce hosted their annual Legislative Wrap-Up event, hosted by RiverWatch at Water’s Edge and sponsored by Harford Community College and Baltimore Gas and Electric. The event featured a panel of Maryland Delegates and Senators to discuss the results of the 2025 Maryland Legislative Session and key priorities for next year. The panel consisted of Senator Jason Gallion – District 35, Delegate Andre Johnson – District 34A, Delegate Teresa Reilly - District 35A, and Delegate Mike Griffith – District 35B.

Harford Chamber President & CEO, Angela Rose, welcomed guests and recognized dignitaries in attendance. County Executive Bob Cassily shared remarks with attendees and thanked the delegation for their hard work this session and dedication to Harford County, sharing how the County government and State Delegation were able to collaborate this year on key issues. Mary Kane, President & CEO of the Maryland Chamber of Commerce addressed attendees, sharing the Maryland Chamber’s Competitiveness Redbook and encouraging the business community to be engaged in advocacy work stating “fight for your business, fight for your community, fight for your future.” Dr. Theresa Felder, President of Harford Community College, offered sponsor remarks. Angela Rose welcomed and introduced the delegates and senators in attendance; each of whom gave a summary of the legislation they introduced or co-sponsored this session as well as took questions from attendees.

Delegate Griffith opened the panel by answering a question on the state budget and how the business community can take action against taxes and fees that impact their organizations. He encouraged attendees to contact the Governor directly to share their views and ask for a veto on these budgetary issues. Griffith shared that the state budget has doubled every 10 years for the past 20 years and it is time to stop government overspending.

Delegate Johnson spoke on an issue raised by Harford County Government in agricultural preservation and solar energy. Johnson shared that the new legislation that allows for 5% of agriculturally preserved land to be converted into solar energy fields is optional for counties to implement and believes that this will help offset the energy crisis in Maryland and lower costs for consumers. He shared that funding for education, the state rainy day fund, and investments into job creation were all positives to come out of this year’s session but advised that federal funding concerns will likely be an issue that will be addressed if the state reconvenes for a special session in the Fall.

Senator Gallion cited the three major bills that surrounded energy in Maryland, noting that the state imports 40% of its energy, driving up costs for the state and citizens. He noted that there was a strong push this session to pave the way for nuclear energy, but no major legislation was passed on the issue. Gallion encouraged the community to submit testimony, both written and in-person, as it helps the delegation know where their constituents fall on key issues.

Delegate Reilly also thanked the business community for their record-breaking turnout to testify this session and noted the incredible impact that it had, especially on the defeat of the service tax. Reilly shared legislation that passed in cybersecurity, working to reduce cyber threats on our healthcare system and creating 3.1 million dollars in cybersecurity grants. She noted that despite it being a challenging session, there were some bills that were enjoyable to vote on, notably naming the orange crush as the official cocktail of the state of Maryland.

The panel answered questions from the audience on key issues like the FAMLI Act delay, juvenile crime and justice, and new taxes and fees. With a potential special session coming this Fall, the panel encouraged the business community to stay informed and to stay active in their communication with the Chamber of Commerce and delegation so we can work together for the betterment of our community.

You can find the full release attached along with a few photos from the event. All event photos can be found here.

About the Harford County Chamber of Commerce: The Harford County Chamber of Commerce has worked continually as the recognized voice of business in Harford County since 1976. The Harford Chamber is the premier business advocate in the county, helping members connect and thrive to create a vibrant economy across all sectors. For more information or become a Harford County Chamber member, please contact Natalie Pixley at natalie@harfordchamber.org