Congratulations to the Class of 2025! As you step into this exciting new chapter, remember it is only the beginning and is full of opportunities for you to learn, grow, and lead. In addition, I was pleased to participate in the commencement ceremonies at Severn Run High School and North County High School, celebrating the accomplishments of so many bright and promising students across District 32.
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My scholarship committee has been busy reviewing scholarship applications for the 2025 Senatorial Scholarships; the applications are judged on need and academic achievement. We were able to provide four-year awards of $1,000 to 29 students. I was fortunate to attend the awards night at Fort Meade High School and present nine exceptional graduates with awards and wish them success in all their future endeavors.
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The District 32 Team had a great visit to Cummins Power Technology in Glen Burnie. It was impressive to see the wide range of engines and equipment they service, including transit buses, emergency vehicles, RVs, and generators. Cummins is a global leader in power solutions, and we are proud to have a sales and service facility located in our district. The facility employs over 30 people who provide critical support and service to customers across Maryland.
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It was a beautiful evening celebrating the YWCA of Annapolis and Anne Arundel County at their annual Bash for Our Besties event. Thank you to CEO Molly Knipe, the board, and the dedicated staff for the incredible work you do to support survivors of domestic violence. This signature fundraiser raises over 250,000 dollars to help provide safe housing, legal representation, counseling, and essential services, ensuring no one is ever forced to return to an unsafe home.
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Standard & Poor’s Credit Rating
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Maryland has received a second AAA credit rating, this time from Standard & Poor’s, reaffirming the state’s strong fiscal standing ahead of its upcoming 1.7 billion dollar bond sale. This follows a similar rating from Fitch issued a few weeks ago, both providing a positive signal for investors and helping to offset a recent downgrade by Moody’s.
Standard & Poor’s issued the rating with a stable outlook, reflecting confidence in Maryland’s long-term financial management.
A Joint Statement from the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Treasurer, Comptroller, House Speaker, and Senate President on Moody’s rating can be found below:
“This news from S&P on our AAA state credit rating further affirms our work to preserve Maryland’s fiscal strength, despite attacks on our economy from the federal government. This announcement echoes the positive report from Fitch earlier this month, which also affirmed our state’s AAA bond rating with a stable outlook.
“Even amid enormous federal headwinds that continue to affect the entire region – from government layoffs to massive budget cuts – Maryland stands strong. Our state faces unique exposure to the impacts of the federal government. But our commitment to growing our economy and protecting our people will not waver.
“Together, we will continue to answer crisis with courage.”
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Tax Changes Take Effect July 1
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Starting July 1, several tax changes will go into effect. These changes are part of Maryland’s plan to address long-term budget needs and include updates to both sales and income tax laws.
To help taxpayers and businesses prepare, the Maryland Comptroller’s Office has provided helpful resources:
www.marylandcomptroller.gov – Regular updates, official guidance, and webinars
www.mdtaxconnect.gov – Specific links and tools for taxpayers and businesses
More information about the 2025 tax changes can also be found at:
www.marylandcomptroller.gov/individuals/2025-tax-updates.html
These resources will continue to be updated to support Marylanders as the new tax structure takes effect.
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Firearms Legislation Passed During 2025 Maryland General Assembly Session
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Firearm Legislation Passed During the 2025 Session
Shared by the Maryland Department of State Police
In accordance with Public Safety Article §5-147, the Maryland State Police has issued a summary of new and amended firearm-related laws passed during the 2025 legislative session. These changes take effect on October 1, 2025, and affect firearm owners, dealers, and registrants across the state.
Davis Martinez Public Employee Safety and Health Act (HB 176 / SB 26)
Establishes a Public Employees’ Safety and Health (PESH) Unit and expands protections against workplace violence. The law includes firearm-related threats or use as part of the definition of workplace violence, improving safety standards for public employees.
Organized Retail Theft Act of 2025 (HB 179 / SB 11)
Creates the felony offense of organized retail theft for property valued over 1,500 dollars. Courts are required, upon request by the State’s Attorney, to determine whether related crimes—such as burglary, robbery, or firearm use—are part of organized retail theft.
Controlled Dangerous Substances and Firearms (HB 413): Reduces penalties for certain cannabis-related offenses and modifies the classification of specific firearm offenses.
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Manufacturing or selling a handgun illegally is now a felony, punishable by up to 5 years in prison or a 10,000 dollar fine per violation
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Possessing or transferring non-serialized firearms is also classified as a felony
Trafficking Regulated Firearms (SB 443)
Reclassifies the offense of transporting a regulated firearm into Maryland for unlawful sale or trafficking from a misdemeanor to a felony. The statute of limitations for prosecuting this offense has also been removed, allowing prosecution at any time.
For further details or questions, individuals may contact the Maryland State Police Licensing Division at (410) 653-4500 or visit mdsp.maryland.gov.
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Better Plaza Block Festival Tomorrow!
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The two day Better Block Festival in the Glen Burnie Town Center
kicks off tomorrow, June 6th at 4:00 pm!
The festival will showcase local vendors, live entertainment, interactive displays and hands-on activities. At 4 pm on Thursday there will be a special community ceremony to kick off the event. The full press release with additional information can be found at this LINK.
Visit the Facebook page for a listing of vendor and food truck participants. Everything from farmers and bakers to crafters and creators!
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Resources for Impacted Federal Workers
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My office has heard from numerous federal employees expressing concerns about job security and the potential defunding of essential services they provide. In addition, many constituents have voiced worries about funding and their rights.
To assist those affected by these challenges, Congresswoman Sarah Elfreth has also compiled a comprehensive resource guide, which will be especially valuable to federal workers, immigrant families, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community during this period of uncertainty. Click here to view the guide.
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Governor Moore has also launched the Maryland Public Servants Resource Website, which serves as a centralized hub for programs and resources to support Maryland’s federal employees and contractors impacted by federal workforce layoffs, firings, and changes to federal funding.
The website provides resources for impacted federal workers, including information on unemployment insurance, job search and career support, legal resources, and an index of key rules and regulations that govern the federal employment process.
The site includes resources for Unemployment Insurance, Career Support, Health Coverage, Legal Resources and more.
The website will be updated regularly as additional information becomes available.
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The Comptroller of Maryland - Frozen Federal Funds Reporting. Recent federal actions have resulted in the freezing and/or revocation of federal loans and grants to some nonprofit organizations. The Comptroller of Maryland has been closely monitoring this situation, particularly given the potential impact on Maryland’s economy, workforce, and communities. To assist us in assessing the scope and impact of these funding cuts, we invite you to share information with us if you have had problems accessing federal funding.
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The Maryland Department of Labor (MD Labor) has prepared resources to support Maryland workers impacted by the federal government transition, including employees of the federal government and federal government contractors.
- Resource pages
The MD Labor resource page provides information about unemployment insurance benefits and reemployment support, linking to our FAQs, application portals, and most-requested flyers for rapid access to key information. Governor Moore’s Resources for Impacted Workers page also provides legal resources, information on federal employment rules and regulations, and county programs and resources.
- Unemployment insurance FAQs
Federal civilian employees who become unemployed due to no fault of their own can apply for Unemployment Compensation for Federal Employees (UCFE). See our Unemployment Insurance FAQs for Federal Workers. Other workers impacted by federal actions—such as employees who worked for a private sector employer that contracted with the federal government—may be eligible to apply for regular unemployment insurance. See the Regular Unemployment Insurance Overview flyer for details. Individuals who are found eligible can receive up to $430 in weekly benefits (pre-tax).
Workers should apply for UI benefits in the jurisdiction of their "duty station." This means, for example, that if you are a Marylander who is laid off from a federal job based in Virginia, you should apply for benefits in Virginia. Here are direct links to apply for UI benefits in Maryland; Washington, DC; and Virginia.
- Unemployment insurance phone line
To apply for unemployment, workers can file online or call 667-207-6520 (Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.). Federal workers should select option #9.
- Virtual workshop for impacted workers
A virtual workshop designed specifically for former federal employees, federal contractors, and other workers impacted by federal government transition is available on Wednesdays, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. See workshop details (información del taller en español) and email FedWorker.Transition@maryland.gov to sign up.
- Support in finding a new job
MD Labor offers résumé workshops, individualized career guidance, mock interviews, career and skills assessment, effective job search strategies, support in coping with job loss and job transition, networking support, reemployment workshops, and more. These resources are provided through 33 American Job Centers (AJCs) and our specialized Professional Outplacement Assistance Center (POAC). See our resource guide (guía de recursos en español) for details. See our FAQ page for answers to common questions from workers transitioning from federal employment to new opportunities.
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My office remains open year-round to help you with issues and answer your questions. During the interim, my Chief of Staff, Nancy Lipin Crawford, and Legislative Aide, Ash-Lynn Randolph, will be in the office on Tuesdays and Thursdays and working remotely on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.
The interim will be busy but not as stressful as the session. There will be community events, meetings, committee site visits, task force studies, and oversight committee meetings to attend.
Thank you, District 32, for allowing me to serve as your State Senator. I am looking forward to seeing you out and about in the community.
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Pamela Beidle
Senator, District 32, Maryland General Assembly
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Office of Planning and Zoning's Upcoming Community Meetings
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If you missed a recent meeting and would like to see a recording of the meeting and/or offer comments (if within the comment period) visit the Office of Planning and Zoning's Community Meetings website.
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Free Summer Meals for Children Available Through AACPS Starting June 16
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Anne Arundel County Public Schools (AACPS) will once again offer free summer meals to children ages 2 to 18, regardless of family income. The program begins Monday, June 16 and is funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Since 2003, AACPS has provided summer meals to ensure children have access to nutritious food when school is out. This year, meals will be served at 23 open sites and delivered to 16 mobile locations throughout the county. Meals must be eaten on-site, except at designated rural sites, where children may take meals to go.
Meals will be served Monday through Thursday at these seven open sites:
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Brock Bridge Elementary (Rural)
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High Point Elementary
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Lothian Elementary (Rural)
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MacArthur Middle
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Tracey’s Elementary (Rural)
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Kim’s Karate, Glen Burnie
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North County Aquatic Center, Glen Burnie
Mobile meal delivery will serve the following communities:
North County:
Heritage Hills, Pumphrey Center, Willows Apartments
West County:
Orchards at Severn, Meade Village, Spring Meadows, Still Meadows
Annapolis:
Admiral Farragut, Annapolis Gardens, Bywater, Congregation Kneseth Israel, Hilltop Village, Woodside Gardens
South County (Rural):
Boones Mobile Estates, Lyons Creek Estates, Maryland Manor
Meals will also be provided at 27 additional sites with summer programs, but those meals will only be available to students enrolled in those programs.
For full site listings and meal service times, visit:
www.aacps.org/summermeals (information available starting June 4)
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June in Annapolis & Anne Arundel County
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Summer is in full swing, and June is packed with celebrations, outdoor fun, and cultural experiences for the whole family. From Arts Month and Pride Month to concerts, festivals, and yoga in the park—there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
🎨 Anne Arundel County Arts Month
Now in its second year, Arts Month celebrates the creativity of over 60 arts organizations and more than 1,200 local artists. Events and exhibitions span all of June across the county.
Upcoming Highlights:
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June 12: Sketchcrawl Night at ArtFarm
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June 14: Improv Show at ArtFarm
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June 14–22: Summer Artfest by Muddy Creek Artists Guild
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June 15: Annapolis Barn Dance
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June 18: Cordish Art Collection Event at Live! Casino & Hotel
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June 18: Urban Sketching at Dinner Under the Stars
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June 28: Liminal Spaces Art Party
Ongoing Exhibits & Events:
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🎭 Now – June 22: Quiet Waters Park Fairy House Trail
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🖼 Now – June 30: "Waves" by Marion Kadi at Maryland Hall
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🖌 Now – July 6: Annapolis Watercolor Club 50th Golden Gala
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🌸 Now – July 13: "Approaching the Garden" at BWI Gateway Gallery
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🎶 Live at BWI Performances – Local musicians perform throughout June
🌈 Pride Month in Annapolis & Anne Arundel
Pride is shining bright all month long. While the Annapolis Pride Parade and Festival were postponed, there are still many exciting Pride events to celebrate our LGBTQ+ community.
Upcoming Events:
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June 10–July 30: Love In Every Shade Pride Exhibition
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June 14: Family Pride Printmaking Workshop
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June 14: Pride Block Printing Workshop
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June 20: EQUAAC Monthly Happy Hour
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June 21: Crofton Pride
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June 21: Annapolis Pride Teen Dance Party
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June 21: Drag Brunch: The Pride Show
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June 25: LGBTQ Crafternoon: Zines & Posters
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June 26: Pride Month Spectacular – Pasadena
🎶 Summer Concert Series
Get outside and enjoy the music at venues throughout the county. Grab your blanket or chair and soak up the sounds of summer!
Concert Highlights:
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Every Thursday: Tides and Tunes at Annapolis Maritime Museum
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Every Tuesday: Tunesday by Chronic Sailing
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Every Friday: Music on the Lawn at Captain Avery Museum
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Every Wednesday: Live Music Happy Hour at 49 West
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Every Wednesday: Summer by the River at London Town & Gardens
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Every Sunday: Bayside Concert Series at Downs Park
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July & August Saturdays: Quiet Waters Park Summer Concert Series
🎤 Rams Head On Stage Performances
Enjoy intimate live music all month long in downtown Annapolis.
Upcoming Artists:
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June 13: Jay B
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June 14: BPM
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June 15: Sue Foley (Matinee)
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June 16: In the Vane of Jimmy Buffett
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June 18: Paul McCartney Birthday Celebration
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June 19: Eric Gales
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June 20: Stacey Kent
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June 21: Langhorne Slim
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June 22: Patrick Lamb & Lin Rountree
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June 24–29: Paradise Kitty, Kelly Willis, Kasey Chambers, Orleans, and more
🌃 Dinner Under the Stars
West Street in Annapolis transforms every Wednesday (and select Saturdays) from 6–10 p.m. Enjoy dining, dancing, and live music under the stars in the heart of the Arts District.
🧘♀️ Yoga & Wellness Activities
June 21 is National Yoga Day, but Annapolis has weekly wellness offerings to keep you grounded all summer long.
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Thursdays: Yin and Peaceful Yoga in Downtown Annapolis
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Saturdays: Sunrise Yoga
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June 14: Yoga in the Garden
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June 24: Yoga + Watercolor Experience
💡 150th Anniversary of Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse
Celebrate a Chesapeake Bay icon this summer.
For more events and details, visit: Visit Annapolis or your local arts organization websites. Let’s make the most of this vibrant month in Anne Arundel County!
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Storm Recovery Guidance from the American Property Casualty Insurance Association (APCIA)
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What to Do if Your Home Is Damaged by Severe Weather
If your home has been damaged or destroyed by a storm or tornado, here are important steps to take:
Immediately After the Storm
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Contact your insurance company or agent as soon as it is safe to do so. Most insurers are available 24/7 through phone, app, text, or their website.
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Secure your property if possible to prevent further damage or theft.
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Make a detailed list of damaged or lost items, and take photos or videos of the damage. Gather any receipts or documentation of your home’s contents.
Watch Out for Scams
Insurance Coverage Basics
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Most homeowners, renters, and business policies cover damage from severe weather, such as tornadoes.
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Vehicle damage is typically covered if your auto policy includes comprehensive coverage.
If You Cannot Live in Your Home
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Ask your insurer if your policy includes Additional Living Expenses (ALE) coverage, which can help pay for temporary housing, meals, and laundry.
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Keep all receipts for these expenses to share with your adjuster.
After You File a Claim
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Avoid making permanent repairs or discarding damaged items until your insurance adjuster has assessed the property.
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If debris poses a danger, carefully document all damage before disposal.
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Save receipts for any emergency repairs or temporary living costs.
Flood Damage
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Flood damage is not covered under standard homeowners insurance. If you have flood insurance, contact your provider as soon as possible.
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Water damage to vehicles may be covered under a comprehensive auto policy.
Helpful Resources from APCIA
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Looking for Performers for "Live at BWI"
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As part of Anne Arundel Arts Month, BWI Airport is bringing live music to its terminals during June! This initiative supports BWI’s mission to enhance the traveler experience and celebrate Maryland and Anne Arundel County’s vibrant music scene. This program is made possible by generous funding from the Arts Council of Anne Arundel County, Rams Head on Stage, and Visit Annapolis & Anne Arundel County.
Annapolis Musicians Fund for Musicians has agreed to serve as the fiscal agent for Live at BWI, and will be handling payments for artists. Musicians will be paid $225 for a two and one quarter hour gig, which will include a 15 minute break. You are permitted to sell merchandise and accept tips during your performance. This opportunity is available to Anne Arundel County artists only, and limited to one gig per artist or act.
Please read the program guidelines HERE. Musicians will receive additional information prior to their appearance. If you have additional questions, please contact Tricia Sanborn at tricia@acaac.org.
SIGN UP HERE
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Anne Arundel Economic Development (AAEDC) News
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We're pleased to share that the latest Anne Arundel County At A Glance report is now available. Click the following button or image to view the latest numbers on employment, home sales, and commercial real estate in Anne Arundel County.
You will also access a second page featuring two charts: one showing changes in commercial vacancy rates in Anne Arundel County from March 2020 through April 2025, and another showing changes in unemployment rates in the U.S., Maryland, and Anne Arundel County from March 2020 through April 2025.
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We're pleased to share that our latest New and Expanding Businesses List of 2025 is now available. It includes 65 business locations that we've identified as new to, relocating to, expanding in, or under new ownership in Anne Arundel County from March - April 2025.
This puts our total at 121 such business locations identified in the first four months of 2025.
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Hate Crimes Prevention Program Community Survey
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The Anne Arundel County (MD) Hate Crimes Prevention Program team is conducting a community survey to gather information on how to better educate and empower the public, and respond to hate bias incidents and hate crimes in Anne Arundel County.
In 2023, Anne Arundel County was awarded a $1.2 million grant through the US Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance to implement the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Program in the county. The Anne Arundel County Hate Crimes Prevention Program aims to:
- Develop a comprehensive approach to hate crimes and hate bias incidents prevention, investigation, and prosecution
- Provide services to victims of hate bias incidents and hate crimes in Anne Arundel County, Maryland
We'd love to hear from you! Your voice matters, and your feedback is valuable to us as we continue to build the Anne Arundel County Hate Crimes Prevention program. Taking this short survey will only take about 30 minutes (or less) and will help us understand your experience and how we can be more responsive to your needs.
Click HERE to take the survey.
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Department of Health Tick Season Guidance
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Tick season is here! Avoid their habitats, use repellent, cover up, and check for ticks daily (pets too). Shower after outdoor fun. Know the signs of Lyme disease. Learn more at AAHealth.org/lyme-disease.
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Community Events/Opportunities
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