Legislative Session and key priorities for next year. The panel consisted of Senator Jason Gallion – District 35, Senator J.B. Jennings - District 35, Delegate Andre Johnson – District 34A, Delegate Steve Johnson - District 34A, Delegate Susan McComas - District 34B, Delegate Teresa Reilly - District 35A, and Delegate Mike Griffith – District
35B.
Harford Chamber Board Chair, Chris Stone, 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. Dr. Theresa Felder, President of Harford Community College, offered sponsor remarks. Angela Rose, Harford Chamber President & CEO, 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.
The primary concern of the local business community and delegation was the ongoing Maryland state budget crisis. A balanced budget was passed this session, but projections for 2027 are already citing a shortfall of several billion. The panel shared that new taxes and fees, or increases in taxes and fees, will be coming as the state attempts to close this deficit. Businesses should be on the alert for increases in sales tax, a new service tax, and increasing fees. Senator Jennings shared a joint effort to reduce the regulatory and tax burden on small businesses and work collaboratively to “put in the work and get things done”.
Energy was also top of mind for the business community, alongside the construction of data centers. Delegate Reilly shared her efforts to promote natural gas power plants and Delegate Andre Johnson shared Maryland’s investment into nuclear energy, but these are long-term solutions that would not likely see results for at least 10 years. Delegate Steve Johnson commented on data centers, stating that “we need data centers to support our electronic infrastructure. We just need to find good locations and power sources to run them.”
Other priorities discussed included unemployment modernization, property tax exemptions for gold star families, and incentives to attract and retain businesses. The panel encouraged attendees and all local business representatives to get involved and share their feedback. Delegate Steve Johnson encouraged business owners saying, “You are the experts in your field; tell us what we need to know to help you be successful.” Delegate Mike Griffith echoed that sentiment stating, “Show up! Advocates make the largest impact.”
Thank you to all of our event sponsors: Harford Bank, Harford County Public Library, APGFCU, Display Local Media, The Kelly Group, Point Breeze Credit Union, and Deer Creek Government Relations.
View photos from the event here.
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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
Harford County Chamber of Commerce
Natalie Pixley Director of Strategic Partnerships
