House Bill 369: Special Election for US Senate Vacancies Act [UPDATE: CT Passed it!]

President Obama's recent election and cabinet appointments have caused 4 vacancies in the US Senate: Illinois (Sen. Obama), Delaware (Sen. Biden), Colorado (Sen. Salazar) and New York (Sen. Clinton). There are very strong rumors that New Hampshire's Sen. Judd Gregg will be the fifth. In each case, the vacancy has already been filled or will be filled by an appointment of that state's Governor.

As the situation in Illinois has vividly demonstrated, this appointment process can be rife with inside politics, back-room deals and allegedly very serious corruption. But even in the other states, the process has been opaque and most importantly has completely shut-out average voters from choosing their US Senators.

For this reason, I have introduced House Bill #369: Special Elections for US Senate Vacancies Act. This bill would mandate that if a US Senate Vacancy were to arise in Maryland, the Governor would call a special election so that people can decide who represents them in the US Senate. The bill goes into effect in January 2015, after current Governor O'Malley has certainly left office. This was done so as not to seem to impugn the the integrity of our current Governor.

Numerous national newspapers have editorialized strongly in favor of this exact concept. Here is a sampling:

• Chicago Tribune: Call An Election (1/5/2009)
• Washington Post: How Not to Pick a Senator (1/24/2009)
• Washington Post: A Better Choice (2/1/2009)
• New York Times: How to Fill a Senate Seat (2/4/2009)
• Washington Post: Another Seat Warmer (2/6/2009)
  
• Washington Post: Power to the People (3/20/2009)

You can read the actual text of the bill itself here.

UPDATE 6/26/2009: Connecticut just passed a similar bill into law!

Gazette LTE: Ali's behind-the-scene work brings refund for students

Click here to see Louis Wilen's great letter to the editor in today's Gazette regarding my involvement in the school-fees issue:

With the end of the school year approaching and the possibility that unpaid curricular fees will prevent some students from participating in graduation ceremonies and other events, I want to acknowledge state Del. Saqib Ali's recent advocacy on behalf of public school students and their parents.

Several weeks ago, Magruder High School announced that students would be charged a $5 fee for "lock rental" for their hallway lockers. (Personally supplied locks are not permitted.) Written inquires to the school confirmed that the fee was a rental charge, not a refundable deposit.

I remembered that Delegate Ali (D-Dist. 39) of Gaithersburg had shown interest in the school fees situation during a televised meeting of our state delegates, so I forwarded the announcement about the lock rental fee to him. Delegate Ali contacted the school system's headquarters and within a day, the school changed the "fee" to a "deposit."

Because of Delegate Ali's intervention, more than 400 graduating Magruder seniors will each receive a $5 refund when they empty their lockers later this month.

Earlier in the semester, I received a letter from Magruder High School stating that if I did not pay a $35 curricular fee, my child would not be allowed to participate in the graduation ceremony. A written appeal requesting that the fee be rescinded was denied. I forwarded my correspondence about the fee to Delegate Ali but I did not explicitly ask for his help. Delegate Ali promptly contacted Superintendent Jerry Weast and the fee was rescinded because it was determined to have been "a mistake" on the part of the school. (Please note, though, that the decision to rescind my child's fee may not have been applied to all students' accounts, so parents should be vigilant if they receive a bill for a curricular fee.)

Delegate Ali has made a positive difference for many students and parents, many of whom are probably unaware of his behind-the-scenes advocacy.

Louis Wilen, Olney

Credit Card Blacklist Prevention Passes House but not the full Senate.

Do you have a credit card? If you are like hundreds of millions of other Americans, of course you do. Most people keep multiple credit cards in their wallets. But in these very difficult economic times, credit card companies are moving aggressively to reduce their risk. That's certainly a reasonable thing to do. Part of this economic meltdown was brought about by banks lending large amounts of money to people who shouldn't have been extended credit.

However, some tactics to reduce risk are out of bounds. It turns out that certain credit-card companies have been engaging in profiling their customers purchase histories and then taking action against them simply based on their shopping patterns. In fact I have learned that certain American Express cardholders who have impeccable credit scores and perfect payment histories have had their credit lines decreased simply because they shopped at the wrong store or because their mortgage was held at a bank that is considered "risky".... even though the cardholder hasn't done anything wrong!

It sounds strange, but it's true. This is how it works: Your credit card company watches where you are shopping and how much money you are spending at each store. If they notice patterns that they recognize as "risky", or if your mortgage company is on one of their "risky list", they may alter the terms of your credit card agreement such as reducing your credit limit.... even if you haven't done anything wrong.

How do you know which "risky" behaviors to avoid? Or what can you do to avoid being flagged? Well, you don't. And as a card-holder there is no way for you to find out. These patterns are completely secret. So there is nothing that you can reasonably do to avoid being targeted in this way. It goes without saying that this practice raises numerous concerns about fairness, privacy, transparency and discrimination.

For this reason, Delegate Bill Frick and I have introduced legislation to prevent this kind of unfair profiling and black-listing. You can read the text of the bill by clicking here.

By the way, its not just Bill Frick and me who are very concerned about this issue. You can read the New York Times article from 1/30/2009 about this issue here.

You can watch a Good Morning America segment on this same subject from 1/28/2009 by clicking here.

[UPDATE 3/12/2009]:

• I had a great bill hearing in the House Economic Matters committee on 3/11/2009. Please watch the video here.
  
• You can see the Power Point presentation I gave during the bill hearing by clicking here.

You can see the written letters of support/opposition that were submitted for this bill:

• Maryland Attorney General Douglas Gansler re: Federal Pre-emption here.
• Maryland Attorney General Douglas Gansler in support here.
• Maryland Attorney Commisioner of Financial Regulations Sarah Bloom Raskin in support here.
• National Association of Attorney Generals supportive of the concept here.
• Mid-Atlantic Financial Services Association, Inc in opposition here.

[UPDATE 3/24/2009]: This bill just passed the House Economic Matters committee today by a 20-2 (& 1 absention) vote! It is expected to pass the full house by Monday March 30th

[UPDATE 3/27/2009]: This bill just passed the full House by a vote of 132-6. Now on to the Senate!

[UPDATE 4/9/2009]: I was on the Kojo Nnamdi radio show on NPR to talk about this bill. You can listen in here.

[UPDATE 4/13/2009]: The Senate finance committee passed the bill today by a vote of 6-5. Now on to the entire Senate.

[UPDATE 4/13/2009]: The legislature ajourned without the whole Senate voting on the bill. So it didn't pass. I will re-introduce it next year.

House Bill 920: No So-Called Sexual Stimulants For Kids Act [Updated 3/17/2009]

When you walk into a gas-station convenience store do you pay much attention to the items on sale? Many of us don't. But if you did, you would see the usual fare: candy bars, sodas, cigarettes, first-aid supplies, etc. You might also see something more surprising: Aphrodesiac Pills.

Well, actually they claim to be aphrodesiac pills but its highly doubtful they have any effect at all. These products are not FDA approved and are sold under sleazy brand names such as "Horniest Goat Weed", "Stamina-Rx" and "All Nite Long".

Just like unregulated nutritional supplements sold at GNC stores, there is very little government control over what is in these pills. Not only is this a danger to public health. It is also a very big rip-off. It's just a scam to separate over-eager men from their hard-earned money.

Furthermore, these products are available to anybody who walks into the store. Including children. Maryland's age of consent is 16. So marketers of sexual products have no business targeting children under that age.

For this reason I have introduced the "HB 920: No So-Called Sexual Stimulants For Kids Act". This bill would ban selling products marketed as sexual stimulants to minors (people under the age of 18). It would force gas-station owners to check IDs the same way they currently do for cigarettes. They will also have to keep these items behind the counter.

Here is the actual text of the bill.

The scientific research showing that these pills are dangerous is overwhelming. I have laid out the case below with references to peer-reviewed-scientific journals.

1. All Nite Long Herbal Sexual Supplement causes the dangerous and potentially lethal priapisms [International Journal of Impotence Research, 2005].
2. Stamina-Rx , which is sold over-the-counter, is "deliberately contaminated with pharmacological doses of PDE5 Inhibitors". "Fatal interactions with PDE5 inhibitors and commonly consumed drugs have been reported, and are well accepted." [Journal of Urology, August 2005].
3. FDA Warns against taking Stamina-Rx because "FDA has determined that the products actually contain the prescription-strength drug ingredient, tadalafil. Tadalafil is the active ingredient in Cialis, an Eli Lilly product approved in Europe to treat male erectile dysfunction. An interaction between certain prescription drugs containing nitrates (such as nitroglycerin) and tadalafil may cause a drastic lowering of blood pressure. There is real danger that this product may be taken by patients taking nitrates since erectile dysfunction is often a common problem in people with diabetes, hypertension (high blood pressure), hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol), ischemic heart disease and in people who smoke." [FDA,  7/20/2003] .
4. Rize 2 The Occasion was recalled in July, 2008 because the FDA "found the product contains potentially harmful, undeclared ingredients. FDA asserts that its chemical analysis revealed that Rize 2 The Occasion and Rose 4 Her contain thiomethisosildenafil, an analog of sildenafil, the active ingredient of a FDA-approved drug used for Erectile Dysfunction (ED). FDA maintains that this ingredient is close in structure to sildenafil and is expected to possess a similar pharmacological and adverse event profile. This undeclared chemical poses a potential threat to consumers" [FDA, 7/28/2008].

[UPDATE 3/17/2009]

• I had a great bill hearing in the House Economic Matters committee on 3/17/2009. Please watch the video here.
  
• You can see the Power Point presentation I gave during the bill hearing by clicking here.

You can see the written letters of support/opposition that were submitted for this bill:

• Maryland Citizens' Health Initiative in support here.
  
• Maryland Delaware Service Station and Automotive Repair Association in support here.
  
• Greater Washington Area Boys and Girls Club in support here.
  
• Montgomery County Government in opposition here.
  

Saqib Ali's Annapolis Report 3/1/2009

Dear Friends,

Maryland's annual 90-day legislative session in Annapolis has reached its midway point. I have been working very hard on numerous initiatives. I believe the remaining 45 days will be decisive in making progress for our state on numerous fronts.

Below I have included an extensive list of legislation I am working on this session. Please browse through it and feel free to read the actual text of the bills by clicking on the bill number. Keep in mind that bills are simply proposed laws. Just because a bill is proposed doesn't mean that it will become law. In fact only about one quarter of all proposals become law.

As the second half of the 2009 session begins, I will have many challenging decisions to make as Delegate. To help me make wise decisions, I need to hear from you, my constituents, neighbors and friends. Please contact me about your stance on issues & legislation of concern to you, so that I can be the best representative possible.

- Saqib

Bill Number	Support Level	Description
MC/PG 101	Lead Sponsor	WSSC Financial Oversight Act Forcing WSSC to disclose details of its budget to the Montgomery County Inspector General who is in charge of eliminating waste, fraud and abuse. Read more about it here.
MC 912	Lead Sponsor	Speed Camera Fairness Act Mandating that contractors that run Montgomery County's speed camera program do not receive a per-ticket fee as they currently do. Read more about it here.
HB 6	Lead Sponsor	Malfunctioning Traffic Light Act Requiring drivers to treat a malfunctioning traffic light the same as a 4-way stop sign. Read more about it here.
HB 63	Lead Sponsor	Candidacy Deadline Reform Act Unifying the filing deadline and the dropout deadline for candidates running for public office. Read more about it here.
HB 115	Lead Sponsor	Punjabi Cultural Awareness Day Act Recognizing April 13 as Punjabi Cultural Awareness Day. Read more about it here.
HB 233	Lead Sponsor	Full Disclosure in Real-Estate Taxes Act Disclosing to home buyers that their property taxes may be significantly higher than the seller's. Read more about it here.
HB 362	Lead Sponsor	Moving Violation Points Accountability Act Preventing bad drivers from reducing their accountability by postponing their court dates. Read more about it here.
HB 369	Lead Sponsor	Special Election for US Senate Vacancies Act Changing the process to fill US Senate vacancies from gubernatorial appointment to special election. Read more about it here.
HB 558	Lead Sponsor	Rental Car Parking Ticket Fairness Act Relieving rental-car companies from paying for parking tickets earned by their customers. Read more about it here.
HB 661	Lead Sponsor	Special Session Campaign Finance Reform Act Banning political fund-raising during special legislative sessions of the General Assembly. Read more about it here.
HB 677	Lead Sponsor	Expanding access to cancer radiation therapy by allowing a larger set of medical facilities to administer the treatment. Read more about it here.
HB 844	Lead Sponsor	Civil Judgment Advance Regulation Act Preventing legal-financing companies from charging usurious interest rates.
HB 920	Lead Sponsor	No So-Called Sexual Stimulants For Kids Act Banning the sale of herbal sexual stimulant pills to minors. Read more about it here.
HB 980	Lead Sponsor	Web-Based Campaign Finance Reporting Act Creating a secure website for campaign finance entities to submit their financial records.
HB 1292	Lead Sponsor	Credit Card Blacklist Prevention Act Prohibiting credit card companies from sanctioning their cardholders based on where they shop or who holds their mortgage. Read more about it here.
HB 1293	Lead Sponsor	State Employees Telework Act Mandating that the state government plan to allow non-essential employees to telecommute 20% of the time.
HB 1294	Lead Sponsor	Credit and Debit Card Fraud Prevention Act Requiring a merchant to check ID when accepting credit or debit card payment over $500.
HB 1320	Lead Sponsor	Insurance Payment Fee Prevention Act Prohibiting automobile insurance companies from charging an "installment fee" simply to make your payment.
HB 72	Co-Sponsor	Banning text messaging while driving.
HB 84	Co-Sponsor	Recognizing the second Saturday in May as Negro Baseball League Day.
HB 85	Co-Sponsor	Requiring universities to take steps to make textbooks more affordable.
HB 126	Co-Sponsor	Establishing a fund to pay for higher education through excess remainder funds on gift cards.
HB 176	Co-Sponsor	Mandating that new septic tanks and replacement septic tanks are most environmentally friendly.
HB 182	Co-Sponsor	Freedom of Association and Assembly Protection Act Preventing State Troopers from spying on peaceful protestors and political dissidents.
HB 184	Co-Sponsor	Moving Maryland towards universal pre-kindergarten by increasing access to expanded federal funding.
HB 199	Co-Sponsor	Requiring the Maryland Transit Administration to hold public hearings before changing bus schedules.
HB 208	Co-Sponsor	Mandating that the labels of all fur clothing identify the country of origin and the animal used.
HB 209	Co-Sponsor	Authorizing $275,000 capital-funding for RCI Group Home Renovation.
HB 220	Co-Sponsor	Giving municipalities the right to annex lots that straddle their municipal borders
HB 248	Co-Sponsor	Creating a task force to study returnable bottle deposits.
HB 266	Co-Sponsor	Improving the quality of care for adults with autism by training direct staff.
HB 273	Co-Sponsor	Forcing health-insurance companies to pay for the most effective autism care.
HB 286	Co-Sponsor	Prohibiting information received by "Crime Solver" organizations from being admissible in court.
HB 293	Co-Sponsor	Increasing the criminal penalties for repeat drunk-drivers offense.
HB 294	Co-Sponsor	Naming 12 new visions for smart-growth.
HB 295	Co-Sponsor	Requiring local planning commissions to include information about smart growth measures.
HB 297	Co-Sponsor	Requiring local jurisdictions to implement and adopt comprehensive plans for future development.
HB 303	Co-Sponsor	Delaying the minimum age at which learner's permits and driver's licenses are issued by 3 months.
HB 304	Co-Sponsor	Increasing the penalties and strengthening the states ability to recover damages from those who engage in healthcare fraud.
HB 306	Co-Sponsor	Enabling states to collaborate to ensure that the educational needs of military children are met.
HB 312	Co-Sponsor	Loosening restrictions on aquaculture farmers.
HB 315	Co-Sponsor	Reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 2020.
HB 316	Co-Sponsor	Abolishing the death penalty.
HB 317	Co-Sponsor	Creating a "Silver Alert" program to disseminate information about elderly missing persons suffering from dementia.
HB 323	Co-Sponsor	Banning text messaging while driving.
HB 339	Co-Sponsor	Making sure that the slots money promised for education stays there.
HB 375	Co-Sponsor	Creating an Off-Highway Vehicle Fund in the Department of Natural Resources.
HB 405	Co-Sponsor	Requiring medical insurers and HMOs to provide more frequent breast cancer screenings.
HB 406	Co-Sponsor	Authorizing the Maryland Automobile Insurance Fund to accept premiums on an installment.
HB 413	Co-Sponsor	Requiring a timely, full campaign finance disclosure report for ballot issue committees.
HB 414	Co-Sponsor	Authorizing $50,000 capital-funding for Northgate Homes Lighting Upgrade.
HB 417	Co-Sponsor	Guaranteeing individuals with disabilities full and equal access to business establishments.
HB 422	Co-Sponsor	Requiring notation in court documents of a parents absence due to overseas military deployment during custody proceedings.
HB 458	Co-Sponsor	Requiring the State Highway Administration to post highway traffic accident information on a public website.
HB 468	Co-Sponsor	Expanding insurance coverage of habilitative services up to 25 years of age from 19.
HB 474	Co-Sponsor	Prohibiting employment and housing discrimination based on gender identity.
HB 476	Co-Sponsor	Allowing election day voter registration.
HB 495	Co-Sponsor	Banning large, abusive puppy-mills.
HB 503	Co-Sponsor	Establishing a commission on autism.
HB 509	Co-Sponsor	Prohibiting cyber-bullying.
HB 541	Co-Sponsor	Requiring new state-funded community college buildings to be green.
HB 544	Co-Sponsor	Allowing interior designers to place a lien on a building for unpaid work done during construction.
HB 571	Co-Sponsor	Banning misrepresentation of senior-citizen specific credentials.
HB 583	Co-Sponsor	Prohibiting scams targeting the elderly.
HB 589	Co-Sponsor	Unifying the deadline for new voter registrations and party change applications.
HB 601	Co-Sponsor	Requiring chain restaurants to provide nutritional information on their menus.
HB 612	Co-Sponsor	Allowing all graduates of Maryland public schools to be eligible for in-state tuition.
HB 614	Co-Sponsor	Expanding enterprise zone tax credits to go directly to business-owning tenants
HB 640	Co-Sponsor	Requiring banks to notify municipalities and counties of their foreclosed property.
HB 644	Co-Sponsor	Creating an apprenticeship program to assist young people who don't attend college.
HB 655	Co-Sponsor	Funding best management practices at marinas to protect the marine habitat.
HB 659	Co-Sponsor	Creation of a Federal REAL-ID compliant ID separate from their drivers licenses.
HB 664	Co-Sponsor	Requiring foods that contained cloned animals to be labeled.
HB 673	Co-Sponsor	Expanding access to MRI, radiation therapy and CT scans by allowing a larger set of medical facilities to administer the treatment.
HB 717	Co-Sponsor	Improving the procedures which courts use to determine the legal and physical custody of a minor.
HB 733	Co-Sponsor	Providing timely notice to tenants living in homes undergoing foreclosure.
HB 742	Co-Sponsor	Providing for two separate state-issued ID cards to comply with federal REAL-ID without its punitive effects.
HB 756	Co-Sponsor	Establishing a Cultural and Linguistic Health Care Provider Competency Program to improve communication between health care providers and patients.
HB 776	Co-Sponsor	Providing timely notice to tenants living in homes undergoing foreclosure.
HB 792	Co-Sponsor	Allowing collective bargaining for school teachers in personnel related cases.
HB 793	Co-Sponsor	Creating a task force to study classroom indoor air quality standards.
HB 819	Co-Sponsor	Preventing employers from misclassifying their workers as contractors to avoid taxes and benefits.
HB 842	Co-Sponsor	Re-regulating electricity production.
HB 845	Co-Sponsoring	Educating public school "tweens" about dating violence.
HB 876	Co-Sponsor	Creating a Healthy Homes Initiative in the Department of Environment.
HB 877	Co-Sponsor	Allowing motorcyclists to enter a signal-controlled intersection after 120 seconds if the pressure-plate doesn't detect their weight.
HB 901	Co-Sponsor	Authorizing judges to issue restraining orders to protect pets and service animals in cases of domestic disputes.
HB 907	Co-Sponsor	Preventing foreign deployments of the National Guard without a congressional declaration of war.
HB 921	Co-Sponsor	Extending the duration of construction permits to increase employment opportunities and increase economic activity.
HB 951	Co-Sponsor	Establishing the Maryland Institute for Clinical Value to improve healthcare delivery.
HB 1001	Co-Sponsor	Requiring financial institutions to annually report to state government the number of their employees on Medicaid.
HB 1055	Co-Sponsor	Affording marriage equality to all regardless of sexual orientation.
HB 1087	Co-Sponsor	Increasing the penalty for stealing the identity of a minor.
HB 1107	Co-Sponsor	Creating a task force on Alzheimer's Disease.
HB 1116	Co-Sponsor	Defining explicitly exact metrics as Smart Growth criteria.
HB 1118	Co-Sponsor	Allowing bank records and other documents to be presented in court as evidence in identity-theft cases.
HB 1120	Co-Sponsor	Prohibiting the use and storage of Social Security numbers on magnetic cards to avoid identity theft.
HB 1126	Co-Sponsor	Allowing victims of identity theft to seek compensation for lost wages from perpetrators.
HB 1155	Co-Sponsor	Preventing doctors from selling prescription information to pharmaceutical companies.
HB 1158	Co-Sponsor	Creating the Maryland Food and Hunger Policy Council in the Department of Agriculture to help eliminate hunger for children.
HB 1160	Co-Sponsor	Increasing sales taxes on hard liquor.
HB 1169	Co-Sponsor	Requiring a helmet for riders of all-terrain vehicles.
HB 1180	Co-Sponsor	Classifying malt beverages ("alcopops") as liquor for the purposes of taxes and sales.
HB 1201	Co-Sponsor	Banning the display of a noose, Swastika or other hate symbol with the intent to threaten or intimidate.
HB 1208	Co-Sponsor	Increasing the criminal penalty for cruelty to pets.
HB 1210	Co-Sponsor	Requiring that stores charge 5 cents for non-recyclable plastic shopping bags.
HB 1217	Co-Sponsor	Requiring the installation of Ignition Interlock System in drunk drivers' cars.
HB 1226	Co-Sponsor	Creation of a two-tier system of drivers licenses to comply with Federal REAL-ID legislation.
HB 1238	Co-Sponsor	Establishing energy-efficient standards for TVs similar to other appliances.
HB 1241	Co-Sponsor	Changing the state song to omit lyrics sympathetic to the confederacy and denigrating "northern scum".
HB 1243	Co-Sponsor	Establishing parameters for good-faith negotiations amongst representatives of labor unions and public-schools.
HB 1249	Co-Sponsor	Mandating overtime pay for hourly workers who work more than 8 hours in any day or 40 hours in any week.
HB 1257	Co-Sponsor	Authorizing $300,000 capital-funding for the Capital Area Food Bank.
HB 1260	Co-Sponsor	Protecting the first $5,000 of a debtor's personal property from creditors in bankruptcy proceedings.
HB 1262	Co-Sponsor	Allowing catalog/internet sales of wine into Maryland.
HB 1267	Co-Sponsor	Requiring that all uses of SWAT teams are fully documented and explained.
HB 1287	Co-Sponsor	Increasing penalties for violating wage laws.
HB 1288	Co-Sponsor	Allowing employees to recover damages from employers who violated wage laws.
HB 1290	Co-Sponsor	Mandating that public school systems develop a plan and strategy for recycling materials.
HB 1340	Co-Sponsor	Increasing protection for homeowners in bankruptcy by protecting a larger amount of their home-equity from creditors.
HB 1360	Co-Sponsor	Authorizing $250,000 capital funding for the Black Rock Center for the Arts.

House Bill 667: Patient Referrals for Radiation Therapy Services

Interesting Fact: If you are a cancer patient in Maryland, when you go to visit your private-practice Oncologist, he can administer chemotherapy to you.... but by law he or she cannot administer radiation therapy. It is strange but true.

A "self-referral" is defined as a doctor referring patients to him or herself (or to an associate from whom a financial benefit is received) for services not directly part of their own practice. Current law ban doctors from "self-referrals" for certain services because of the possibility of conflict-of-interest and over-prescription fraud. These services include MRI, CT-Scans and Radiation Therapy.

MRI and CT-Scan though are fundamentally different in one important way than Radiation Therapy. They are diagnostic tools whereas Radiation Therapy is a treatment. Radiation Therapy is a only given to patients who are known to have cancer and it has very significant side effects. MRI and CT-Scans can be given to literally anyone for almost any ailment. So the risk of over-prescription and fraud with Radiation Therapy is far less than with MRI and CT-Scan.

For this reason I have sponsored a bill House Bill 667: Patient Referrals for Radiation Therapy Services that would allow Medical Oncologists to team up with Radiation Oncologists within the same office. This bill will increase the availability and accessibility of Radiation Therapy for Maryland's Cancer patients.

You can read the actual text of the bill by clicking here.

- Saqib

House Bill 661: Special Session Campaign Finance Reform Act

One of the issues that motivates me the most as a public official is preventing the undue influence of money in politics. I think that all members of our community should have an equal voice in public policy -- not just those with lots of money.

Luckily, the vast majority of my colleagues in the Maryland General Assembly agree with this sentiment. For this reason we have in place a campaign fund-raising ban during the annual 90-day regular legislative session (January - April). During this period, legislators, the Governor, the Comptroller and the Attorney General are prohibited from soliciting or receiving any funds for their campaigns. This allows us to focus on policy and prevents even the appearance of impropriety or conflict of interest.

Although we have a fund-raising ban for regular sessions, the same ban does not apply to emergency or "Special Sessions" which the Governor can call at his discretion. I believe that our laws should treat the fund-raising during regular and special sessions consistently. So I have introduced House Bill 661: Special Session Campaign Finance Reform Act. This bill enacts the same fund-raising ban for special sessions as we currently have for regular sessions.

This is an issue that I have been discussing for some time now. You can read my October 2007 letter to the Gazette about this issue by clicking here.

Both the Senate President and Speaker of the House have indicated their support for fund-raising parity between regular and special session. You can their comments in the Baltimore Sun by clicking here.

Just to be clear, I'm not at all accusing anyone of wrongdoing. In fact, during the special session, I received a few campaign donations myself. This was completely lawful and in compliance with the guidance given by our Ethics counsel. However, I think the law should change to give our citizens that extra level of confidence in the integrity of their elected officials. The citizens of Maryland certainly deserve that.

You can read the actual text of the legislation by clicking here.

- Saqib

House Bill 558: Rental Car Parking Ticket Fairness Act

Have you ever rented a car? If so, while renting that car did you ever receive a parking ticket? Now answer the question honestly, did you pay the ticket or did you ignore it knowing that you wouldn't be held liable?

If you didn't pay the ticket (naughty, naughty), then you are like hundreds of other people in Maryland who don't pay their parking tickets on rental vehicles. But then who ends up paying? The rental car company, that's who.

Every year rental car companies end up paying hundreds of thousands of dollars in Maryland alone to cover the costs of parking tickets incurred by their customers. It's an unfair and unjust burden on these companies. And I think they shouldn't be held liable for infractions they weren't responsible for. During these very tough economic times when people are loosing their jobs everyday, I believe we must do all that we can to improve the business climate for Maryland companies so that they can get back into a position where they are prospering and creating more jobs for our residents.

 

That is why I have introduce House Bill 558: Rental Car Parking Ticket Fairness Act. .This bill allows rental car companies to transfer the financial liability for these parking tickets back to the people who actually earned them. It's a simple issue of fairness. And I think now is the perfect time to make this change.

You can read the actual text of the bill by clicking here.

House Bill 362: Moving Violation Points Accountability Act

When a driver is ticketed for a moving violation by a police officer, he or she can go to court to contest their guilt. Usually the court date comes months after the ticket was issued. If the driver is found innocent, their are no sanctions of course. But what happens if the driver is found guilty of the charges? Of course they have to pay the fine (plus court costs) and the MVA assesses "points" against their license. If somebody accumulates 8 points, then their license gets suspended.

Of course the points aren't assessed on a driver's license when they are pulled over. They only go into effect when/if they are found guilty. That may occur several months after the actual infraction. If they continue (ie: delay) their court date, it may come as much as a year later.

However, even though the points go into effect at the time of conviction, Maryland law says the points will expire 2 years from the violation. So there is incentive for drivers to delay their court dates in order to shorten the duration in which the points apply. It's a little quirk in our law. But repeat bad drivers exploit this loophole often.

For this reason, I have introduced House Bill 362: The Moving Violation Points Accountability Act. This bill eliminates the loophole by saying that moving violation points expire two years after the conviction (instead of the violation). This eliminates the incentive to delay court dates and ensures that bad drivers are held fully accountable for their actions.

You can read the actual text of the bill by clicking here

[UPDATE 2/10/2009]: 

You can view the powerpoint presentation I presented in the House hearing today by clicking here.

You can hear the audio recording of my testimony by clicking here.

House Bill 6: Malfunctioning Traffic Light Act

Question: What is the law to follow when you approach a malfunctioning signal light in your vehicle?
Answer: Treat it like an all-way Stop Sign.
Wrong.

Currently, most people follow the rule of thumb listed above. They incorrectly believe that is the law. However, Maryland law is silent on what a driver should do when approaching a malfunctioning signal light. It is completely legal to simply ignore the broken traffic light and drive right through.

As a member of the Motor Vehicles Subcommittee of the House Environmental Matters Committee, I'm uniquely positioned to correct this omission in our traffic laws. For this reason, I have introduced House Bill 6: The Malfunctioning Traffic Light Act. Senator James Robey has kindly agreed to introduce this same legislation in the Senate.

The Malfunctioning Traffic Light Act says that "If no lighted indication is visible to a driver approaching traffic control signal, the driver shall reduce speed and prepare yield to other vehicles in or approaching the intersection." This language was modeled after Delaware's law. It has been recommended by John Porcari, Secretary of the Maryland Department of Transportation.

You can read the actual text of the bill by clicking here.

[Updated 2/3/2009]: You can hear the audio recording of the hearing before the House Environemental Matters Committee on 2/3/2009 by clicking here.

House Bill 233: Full Disclosure of Real-Estate Taxes

In Maryland we have something called the "Homestead Property Tax Credit". This tax credit ensures that the annual increase in your home property sales taxes is capped at a certain amount - regardless of how high your home's value rises. In Montgomery County it is 10%.

The effect of this tax credit is that even though your home's value may have increased dramatically, your property taxes climb much slower. When the house is sold, the new buyer doesn't get the benefit of this tax reduction. He or she will pay the full tax rate. So often buyers will end up paying significantly higher taxes than the sellers were paying.

Many people don't understand or realize this "tax-gap" exists. Sellers often advertise the taxes they pay on the real-estate fliers leaving the buyer with "sticker-shock" after they move in and get their first tax bill.

Montgomery County Councilman Phil Andrews identified this problem and passed a local ordinance to fix it in 2007. I'm seeking to take Councilman Andrews idea and expand it state-wide.

For this reason, I have introduced House Bill 233: Full Disclosure of Real-Estate Taxes Act. This bill ensures that home sellers (and their agents) will properly list on any advertisement the property tax that the new buyer would pay.

You can read Councilman Andrews' excellent letter to the editor in the Washington Post about this issue by clicking here.

You can read the actual text of the bill by clicking here.

- Saqib

UPDATE 2/26/2009: This bill just passed the Maryland House of Delegates unanimously 135-0. Now onto the Senate!

House Bill 115: Punjabi Cultural Awareness Day Act

Do you know any Sikh people? I do. There are thousands of Sikh residents in Maryland. Many Sikh men can be identified by the turbans they wear. But many others choose not to wear turbans. But aside from the turbans, I have found that most people are completely unaware about the Sikh religion and culture.

Sikhism founded on the teachings of Guru Nanak and nine successive Sikh Gurus in fifteenth century Indian/Pakistani state of Punjab, is the fifth-largest organized religion in the world. This system of religious philosophy and expression has been traditionally known as the Gurmat (literally the counsel of the gurus) or the Sikh Dharma. Sikhism originated from the word Sikh, which in turn comes from the Sanskrit root śiṣya meaning "disciple" or "learner", or śikṣa meaning "instruction."

Most Maryland Sikhs are hard-working and successful professionals. Not all Punjabis are Sikh. But almost all Sikhs are Punjbai. This is a community that can be considered a model for other immigrant communities in America. Yet in the public's mind, they are nearly invisible. I believe we need to recognize this community as an asset to our state and nation.

For this reason, I have introduced House Bill #115: The Punjabi Cultural Awareness Day Act. This bill simply establishes April 13th as a day to officialy recognize the contribution that Punjabi Culture has made to world civilization.

You can read the text of the bill here.

House Bill 63: Candidacy Deadline Reform Act

Maryland has numerous state-level elected offices that go up for election every four years:

• 141 State Representatives (Delegates)
• 47 State Senators
• 1 Attorney General
• 1 Comptroller
• 1 Governor + 1 Lieutenant Governor
  

Aside from these we have 2 US Senators, 8 US Congressmen and a multitude of county-level offices that go up for election at various times as well. Each of these elections attract multiple candidates. That's a good thing. Democracy requires people to elect their leaders. As far as I'm concerned, the more choices we have, the better!

Candidates for these offices have to jump through numerous hoops to qualify for elections. The most significant such hoop is actually filing a candidacy with the Maryland State Board of Elections. As you might expect, their is a "filing deadline" by which all candidates must register their candidacies. If you miss the deadline, your name will not appear on the ballot. Fair enough, right?

However, strangely enough, Maryland law allows 10 days after the filing deadline for any candidate to remove their name from the ballot. During this 10 day period, no new candidates can file, but existing candidates can remove their names from contention. This might seem like an innocuous little quirk but in fact, this oddity allows for some nefarious activity on the part of candidates and those attempting to distort the democratic process. People might file their candidacies to run for office without any intention of actually contesting the election. By doing this, they might discourage other potential candidates from filing their candidacies (this is called "clearing the field"). If they collude with another preferred candidate, they can easily game the system so that their preferred is the only other candidate in the race. Then, once the filing deadline has passed (but before the drop-out deadline), the "fake-candidate" can simply withdraw their candidacy.... thus leaving their preferred candidate as the only horse in the race. They can play this deceptive game because they are safe in the knowledge that within that 10-day period, no new candidates can enter the race, but they can exit.

Who would engage in such a contrived scheme? Unfortunately, there have been recent cases in Maryland in which this exact scenario has occurred. It's a shame that people would cynically try to warp the democratic process in such a way. But it happens.

For this reason, I have introduced House Bill 63: Candidacy Deadline Reform Act. This bill changes the current law such that the drop-out deadline is the same as the filing deadline. Thus closing the 10-day loophole window. You can read the actual text of the bill here.

MC 912/09: Speed Camera Fairness Act

Of course nobody likes to get a ticket from one of the numerous speed cameras posted on Montgomery County's roads. However, many would agree that they are necessity to increase safety of our motorists and pedestrians. What many people don't know (and this came as a surpise to me too) is that Montgomery County Government is paying the contractors -- Affiliated Computer Services Inc (ACS) -- who own, maintain and run the speed cameras a $16.25 fee per ticket. Although this may not technically violate the language of state law, it certainly violates the spirit: "If a contractor operates a speed monitoring system on behalf of a local jurisdiction or agency, the contractor's fee may not be contingent on the number of citations issued or paid". The result is that ACS has a financial incentive to issue as many speed camera tickets as possible. In March, the Washington Times covered this story in detail. You can read that article by clicking here. I think this is an area that needs serious reform.

For this reason, Senator Mike Lenett (D-Olney) and I have teamed up to introduce the "Speed Camera Fairness Act". This bill clarifies and explicitly bans the aforementioned type of contractual arrangement. I'm a supporter of speed cameras because I think they lower speeds and save lives. However, they must be done right. It is crucial that our citizenry has every confidence that the goal of these cameras is to increase public safety -- not to pad the government's coffers or some company's bottom line. You can read the actual text of the bill by clicking here.

This bill will be voted on in Annapolis in January. However, there will be a public hearing for this bill at 7:00 pm on Thursday, December 11, 2008. It will be held in the 1st Floor Auditorium in the Executive Office Bldg (101 Monroe St., Rockville). If you support this bill and you live in Montgomery County, I urge you to attend and testify that evening. Just let me know by email in advance. You must sign up to testify by clicking here.

- Saqib

MC/PG 101/09: The WSSC Financial Oversight Act

The Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission (WSSC) is the agency that delivers water to the homes and businesses in Montgomery County and Prince George's County. It is chartered in Maryland State Law. Elected officials from both counties approve the WSSC’s annual water and sewer fees as well as construction projects in the annual budgets. Montgomery County spends $757 million per fiscal year through the WSSC. Over the past three our county has ponied up $2.3 billion for the WSSC. 

Strangely though, when the Montgomery County Inspector General, Thomas Dagely (who is charged with eliminating waste, fraud and abuse in government) recently asked to see how that $2.3 billion dollars was spent the WSSC bluntly refused to provide him with their budgetary data. This is an intolerable situation. Montgomery County's residents must know that their tax-dollars are not being wasted or pilfered. Anything that hinders such reasonable oversight is a major problem. And more importantly, the WSSC should not be in the business of stonewalling the public.

Montgomery County's Inspector General position was created as an agent of the County Council. WSSC lawyers cited a portion of state law saying that it only had to provide the information in question to the County Executive, but not the County Council. You can read about this standoff in a Washington Post article by clicking here. What makes this particular issue even more confounding is that due to a legislative quirk, the Prince George's Council enjoys this oversight authority that Montgomery County lacks. So Montgomery County's tax-payers aren't as well protected as their neighbors to the South-East.

For this reason, I have introduced MC/PG 101/09: The WSSC Financial Oversight Act. This bill would simply give Montgomery County Council the same oversight authority over WSSC's budget as the County Executive and Prince George's Councilmembers currently enjoy. You can read the full text of the bill by clicking here.

This bill will be voted on in Annapolis in January. However, there will be a public hearing for this bill at 7:00 pm on Monday December 8, 2008. It will be held in the 1st Floor Auditorium in the Executive Office Bldg (101 Monroe St. Rockville). If you are interested in observing this hearing, I urge you to attend.

- Saqib

Special Political Opportunity for High School Seniors

Every year, students from across Maryland come to Annapolis in the winter/spring to participate for two weeks in the Maryland Legislative Page Program. In their roles as Legislative Pages, these students receive an insider's look and get to actively participate in Maryland's legislative process.

Participants in the Legislative Page Program are selected from a large pool of applicants to spend two weeks throughout the legislative session (January - April) interacting with members of Maryland's General Assembly and performing various tasks to support the work of members and staff. Legislative Pages get inside access to Senators and Delegates. Pages do everything from assisting visitors to the State Capital to delivering messages to members on the floor of the Senate and House. Best of all, Montgomery County Public School system gives them excused absences from their school to do this work!

I encourage all high school seniors to apply for this excellent program. Many Senators and Delegates were themselves once legislative pages. If you are a high school senior or know one who is interested in the program, please learn more about and apply for this program by clicking here.

Applications are due October 24th and final selections will be announced by October 31.

Good luck to all who apply! Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions regarding the Legislative Page Program or any other matters of importance to you.

- Saqib


P.S.
High school seniors who attend private schools or schools outside Montgomery County should contact their guidance counselors for information about the Legislative Page Program.

My Letter for Light Rail in Montgomery County

In case you missed it, I wanted to quickly bring to your attention an my letter to the editor that appeared in last Wednesday's Montgomery County Gazette regarding the need for light-rail in Montgomery County.

Please take a look by clicking here.
(I have included the text of the entire article below for your convenience)

During this time of high gas prices and given the urgency of reducing green-house gas emissions, we need to do whatever we can to reduce the number of miles driven in personal automobiles. I firmly believe that rail-transport is a crucial tool to make that happen.

- Saqib

Upcounty Needs World-Class Transit to Support Needs

Wednesday, Aug. 6, 2008

I read the recent Gazette article in which some members of the Montgomery County Planning Board advocated for a bus route along the Corridor Cities Transitway (CCT) instead of light-rail. I respectfully disagree with their assessment.

Like most elected officials from upper Montgomery County, I am a strong advocate for the CCT. I also believe that a light-rail line is a far superior solution than a bus route.

Numerous studies demonstrate that light-rail may be more expensive upfront but is far more effective than express bus routes. More high quality economic development occurs near light-rail versus bus transit. People are far likelier to switch from cars to trains rather than buses. Light-rail is more scalable because as demand increases, cars can be added without paying more operators. Light-rail is perceived as more permanent and, once in place, operational funding is more secure. Travel-times tend to be more predictable because rail is routed along dedicated rights-of-way. Such predictability is crucial for passengers planning their journey with confidence.

I urge members of the Planning Board and Transportation Secretary John Porcari to provide the upcounty with a world-class solution to our transportation problems. That means a light-rail line along the route of the CCT.

Saqib Ali, North Potomac

The writer, a Democrat, represents District 39 in the House of Delegates.

Take 2 Minutes to Defend Liberty.

As a Maryland State Representative I have direct influence over state legislation. Usually I contact you to keep you abreast of and seek your input on state-level issues. However, today I'm taking the unusual step of writing to you about a federal issue. I'm doing this because the issue at stake is of crucial importance to every American who takes their Constitution seriously. I'm writing to appeal for your help to stop federal legislation to allow warrantless wiretapping of our telephone and email conversations. I believe that it is not an overstatement to say that the rule-of-law and liberty itself are at stake.

You see, on Tuesday July 8th, the US Senate is scheduled to debate legislation that would allow the President, with the help of big telecommunication companies like AT&T spy on the telephone and email conversations of all Americans. You may have heard that over the past few years, these telecom companies -- at the behest of President Bush -- have been spying on innocent US Citizens without any warrants. There is widespread agreement that this un-American practice is illegal. On Tuesday our US Senators will be voting on a bill that would grant retro-active immunity from civil liability to those telecom companies. This is a very bad idea. Our nation is built on the rule of law and freedom from unlawful search and seizure. You can read about the FISA Amendments Act of 2008 by clicking here.

But because George Bush wants to grant immunity, Republicans in Congress, joining with many Democrats are trying to push this bill through. Many leading Democrats including Senators Dodd, Feingold and even Senator Obama have voiced their displeasure with retro-active immunity. Below you can see Senator Feingold's (D-Wisconsin) passionate video statement against this bill.

Unfortunately, our US Senator Barbara Mikulski (D-Maryland) has previously voted to immunize the telecom companies for warrantless wiretapping. (Our other Senator Ben Cardin thankfully voted against this measure). It seems likely that on Tuesday Senator Mikulski will again vote for this measure.

I'm urgently appealing for your help in this matter. I'm asking you to take 2 minutes of your time to call Senator Mikulski's office to politely ask her to oppose any bill that provides retro-active immunity for warrantless wiretapping. Please be very polite but firm, and don't forget to tell whoever answer's the phone that you are a voter in Maryland. Since this matter is expected to come up for a vote on Tuesday, it is crucially important that you make this brief call today.

• Who to call: Office of US Senator Barbara Mikulski
• Telephone Number: (202) 224-4654
• What to say: "Please defend the constitution by opposing any bill that provides retro-active immunity for warrantless wiretapping"

This is an issue of utmost importance for our nation. So I thank you for your support and for your time.

- Saqib

House Bill #80: The No Nooses Act

I would like to tell you about an important legislative initiative that I believe is crucial to preventing racial intolerance and intimidation in Maryland.

Over the past few months there have been numerous media accounts of people using nooses as a symbol of hate. Most well-known amongst these was the case in Jenna, Louisiana where such a noose sparked school-yard fighting. There have been noose-sightings much closer to home as well. Last September, a noose was found hanging on a tree at the University of Maryland in College Park. This noose was just outside the Nyumburu Cultural Center, home to the Black Faculty and Staff Association. This incident sparked widespread outrage amongst the student body and faculty. You can read the Washington Post article describing this very unfortunate incident by clicking here.

It is becoming clear to me that the noose is fast-becoming the preferred symbol of intimidation by those who express racial intolerance today. Nooses seem to have replaced other equally odious icons such as burning crosses. Burning a cross is already illegal in Maryland. However, hanging a noose isn’t illegal. I believe it is time for Maryland’s law to catch-up.

For this reason I have teamed up with Delegate Herman Taylor to introduce House Bill #80: The No Nooses Act in the Maryland General Assembly which commenced on January 9th. This bill will make it a hate-crime for anyone to place a noose on any real-property based on the ethnic animosity. Such a hate-crime would be a misdemeanor if committed by itself (up to 3 years imprisonment and a $5,000 fine) or a felony if committed with another serious crime (up to 20 years imprisonment and a $20,000 fine).

A similar law was recently passed in New York. In the coming weeks, I will work hard to ensure that this much-needed, common-sense legislation is passed into law in Maryland.

You can read the actual text of the bill by clicking here.

- Saqib

[UPDATE 3/22/2008]: I was successful in getting this issue passed through the House of Delegates. To see an article about this issue, click here.

Saqib Ali's Annapolis Report 2/26/2008

Dear Friends,

Maryland's annual 90-day legislative session in Annapolis has reached its midway point. I have been working very hard on numerous initiatives. I believe the remaining 45 days will be decisive in making progress for our state on numerous fronts.

At the bottom of this email I have included an extensive list of legislation I am working on this session. Please browse through it and feel free to read the actual text of the bills by clicking on the bill number. Keep in mind that bills are simply proposed laws. Just because a bill is proposed doesn't mean that it will become law. In fact only about one third of all proposals become law.

As the second half of the 2008 session begins, I will have many challenging decisions to make as Delegate. To help me make wise decisions, I need to hear from you, my constituents, neighbors and friends. Please contact me about your stance on issues & legislation of concern to you, so that I can be the best representative possible.

It is a great honor to represent the people of District 39. Over the coming weeks, I will keep you up-to-date on my efforts here in Annapolis. Please read my blog which can be found at my website: www.SaqibAli.org. I'll try to update it as often as possible.

Sincerely,
- Saqib

(301) 685-3407
www.SaqibAli.org

Bill Number	Support Level	Description
HB 10	Lead Sponsor	The Unattended Child Protection Act: Creating Maryland's first ever child neglect statute, covering crimes against children which do not rise to the level of child abuse. Read more here.
HB 80	Lead Sponsor	The No Nooses Act: Prohibiting the placement of a noose on someone's property for the purpose of racial intimidation. Read more here.
HB 110	Lead Sponsor	The Wireless Telephone Billing Change Notification Act: Forcing cell phone companies to send a written receipt to customers within 10 days after any change in monthly billing fee. Read more here.
HB 111	Lead Sponsor	The Malfunctioning Traffic Light Act: Requiring drivers to treat a broken or malfunctioning traffic light as a four-way stop sign. Read more here.
HB 129	Lead Sponsor	The Plastic Card Security Act: Forcing retailers to expunge data collected on credit-card swipe machines within 48 hours of the sales transaction.
HB 284	Lead Sponsor	The Consumer Loyalty Card Privacy Act: Preventing supermarkets from selling customers' detailed purchasing history (as recorded by supermarket "Club Cards" or "Bonus Cards") to marketers. Read more here.
HB 328	Lead Sponsor	Preventing the use of the Program Open Space environmental fund to replace natural grass fields with Astroturf.
HB 347	Lead Sponsor	The Special Legislative Session Campaign Finance Reform Act: Prohibiting state-level elected officials from accepting campaign contributions during Special Sessions of the legislature. Read more here.
HB 513	Lead Sponsor	Allocating $150,000 in matching funds to buy advanced medical equipment for the MCC Medical Clinic in Silver Spring.
HB 614	Lead Sponsor	Expanding the 6% sales tax to "medically unnecessary" cosmetic procedures hopefully to offset the repeal of the 2007 Computer Services Tax.
HB 829	Lead Sponsor	Preventing drivers from getting double-ticketed in a very short time by speed-cameras.
HB 1119	Lead Sponsor	Creating new safety standards for vehicles using a trailer-hitch to pull another vehicle or a trailer.
HB 1401	Lead Sponsor	The Radio Frequency Identification Chip Insertion Prevention Act: Preventing employers from implanting radio frequency identification (RFID) chips into employees' bodies. Read more here.
HB 1410	Lead Sponsor	The Truth in Advertising Real-Estate Taxes Act: Requiring realtors to disclose the actual amount a buyer will pay in property taxes after purchasing a home. Read more here.
HB 1414	Lead Sponsor	Patient Referrals for Radiation Therapy Services: Expanding access to cancer radiation therapy by allowing a larger set of medical facilities to administer the treatment. Read more here.
HB 1462	Lead Sponsor	Preventing credit card companies from changing loan terms without having the borrowers signed consent.
HB 75	Co-Sponsor	Requiring that the public school system be notified when a nonpublic-school student is arrested.
HB 76	Co-Sponsor	Increasing the severity of punishment to providing a minor with alcohol from a fine to a misdemeanor crime (jail time).
HB 138	Co-Sponsor	Requiring the disclosure of large contributions to campaigns for state-wide ballot initiatives.
HB 139	Co-Sponsor	Requiring principals to report multiply suspended students to the county school superintendant for a remedial action plan.
HB 161	Co-Sponsor	Suspending minors' drivers licenses if convicted of graffiti.
HB 196	Co-Sponsor	Repealing the computer services tax which passed during the 2007 special legislative session as part of a larger compromise.
HB 247	Co-Sponsor	Establishing a fund in each county for a residential drug abuse treatment program.
HB 283	Co-Sponsor	Allowing the prosecution of drug traffickers for having drug-money up to $10,000.
HB 302	Co-Sponsor	Allocating $1,000,000 in matching funds for the Montgomery General Hospital Emergency Room.
HB 326	Co-Sponsor	Repealing the computer services tax which passed during the 2007 special legislative session as part of a larger compromise.
HB 332	Co-Sponsor	Allocating $1,000,000 in matching funds for an Up-county senior citizens center in Gaithersburg.
HB 334	Co-Sponsor	Allocating $1,000,000 in matching funds for the Bioscience Education Center in Germantown.
HB 336	Co-Sponsor	Allocating $250,000 in matching funds for the Plum Gar Neighborhood Recreation Center in Germantown.
HB 346	Co-Sponsor	Requiring that court orders circumscribing parental rights of a member of the US military deployed overseas apply only temporarily until that deployment is complete.
HB 357	Co-Sponsor	Prohibiting newspaper delivery to homes that have requested stoppage.
HB 358	Co-Sponsor	Creating a searchable website showing all state expenditures over $25,000.
HB 368	Co-Sponsor	Creating the Maryland Strategic Energy Investment Program to encourage the development of renewable energy sources.
HB 370	Co-Sponsor	Allowing for the collection of DNA from people who have been arrested for violent crime, burglary or auto-theft.
HB 372	Co-Sponsor	Providing mental health services for Maryland veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.
HB 373	Co-Sponsor	Establishing a state goal of increasing development near transit centers (bus stations, train stations, etc).
HB 374	Co-Sponsor	Establishing the state goal of reducing per capita electricity by 15% by 2015.
HB 375	Co-Sponsor	Increasing the percentages of electricity that has to be produced by renewable energy sources over the next few years.
HB 376	Co-Sponsor	Mandating that newly constructed state government buildings meet federal standards for being highly energy efficient.
HB 377	Co-Sponsor	Increasing the tax-credit for homes powered by solar or geo-thermal energy.
HB 378	Co-Sponsor	Increasing the penalties for abuse or neglect of animals and aggravated cruelty to animals.
HB 419	Co-Sponsor	Creating a registry for pharmacy benefit managers.
HB 420	Co-Sponsor	Allocating $300,000 in matching funds for historic preservation and rehabilitation of Button Farm.
HB 447	Co-Sponsor	Banning phosphorous from fertilizers intended for personal usage.
HB 500	Co-Sponsor	Denying paternity, visitation and custody rights to rapists for offspring produced by that crime.
HB 506	Co-Sponsor	Reviewing weather Towson State University is unnecessarily duplicating academic programs at Morgan State University.
HB 509	Co-Sponsor	Establishing a task-force to study recyclable beverage bottle/can deposit programs.
HB 512	Co-Sponsor	Establishing the Maryland Affordable Housing Investment Fund and its corresponding Board.
HB 528	Co-Sponsor	Including the homeless as a protected class in Maryland's hate-crime statute.
HB 555	Co-Sponsor	Forcing trailer-park owners pay relocation expenses of their residents when the trailer-park closes.
HB 585	Co-Sponsor	Creating a workgroup to establish a safe patient-lifting policy for nursing homes.
HB 598	Co-Sponsor	Establishing a commission on minority business enterprise.
HB 603	Co-Sponsor	Allowing college students to claim health insurance as an "educational cost" for the purposes of financial aid application.
HB 609	Co-Sponsor	Prohibiting the sale of cigars in packages of less than 5 (except in a cigar shop).
HB 610	Co-Sponsor	Establishing a task-force to study the preservation of heritage languages.
HB 613	Co-Sponsor	Establishing a fund to pay for higher education through excess remainder funds on gift cards.
HB 617	Co-Sponsor	Altering the definition of cigarettes to include cigars for taxation purposes.
HB 618	Co-Sponsor	Mandating that apartment buildings make reasonable religious accommodations for residents.
HB 619	Co-Sponsor	Preventing sex-offenders from having their imprisonment duration reduced due to good behavior.
HB 620	Co-Sponsor	Preventing witness intimidators from having their imprisonment duration reduced due to good behavior.
HB 625	Co-Sponsor	Making the use of state parks free of charge by eliminating the annual fee paid by the Park Reserve Fund to the counties.
HB 654	Co-Sponsor	Mandating that employees be given at least 15-minute breaks every six hours of work.
HB 660	Co-Sponsor	Allocating $250,000 in matching funds for capital improvements for the Jewish Foundation for Group Homes.
HB 711	Co-Sponsor	Preventing school bus drivers from using cell phones.
HB 712	Co-Sponsor	Reducing 25% of green-house gas emissions by 2020 and 90% by 2050.
HB 719	Co-Sponsor	Making it a felony to knowingly watch a dog-fight.
HB 724	Co-Sponsor	Establishing a 12-member joint Senate/House committee on information technology and Biotechnology.
HB 729	Co-Sponsor	Requiring the DNA collection from people arrested for kidnapping and sexual offenses.
HB 730	Co-Sponsor	Allowing the legal practice of Ayurvedic & Homeopathic medicine.
HB 777	Co-Sponsor	Giving gas-station owners right-of-first-refusal when big oil companies sell the business to regional gasoline wholesalers or "jobbers".
HB 785	Co-Sponsor	Converting the troubled Rosewood Center to a state a recreational facility if/when it is closed.
HB 790	Co-Sponsor	Establishing a program to provide medical services specifically to children who have been abused.
HB 795	Co-Sponsor	Allowing State Athletic Commission to issue licenses for mixed martial arts competitions.
HB 834	Co-Sponsor	Mandating that the labels of all fur clothing identify the country of origin and the animal used.
HB 835	Co-Sponsor	Mandating that mercury switches be removed from older automobiles to the Chesapeake Bay from contamination.
HB 857	Co-Sponsor	Giving municipalities the right to annex lots that straddle their municipal borders.
HB 904	Co-Sponsor	Raising the alcoholic beverage tax rate.
HB 905	Co-Sponsor	Requiring private universities to issue annual reports regarding their cultural diversity programs.
HB 971	Co-Sponsor	Creating a publicly financed state legislative election campaign program.
HB 984	Co-Sponsor	Establishing a mental health pilot program for Maryland veterans of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars at Montgomery County General Hospital.
HB 987	Co-Sponsor	Forcing internet broadband providers report to the Public Service Commission maps of where service has and hasn't been deployed.
HB 1067	Co-Sponsor	Forcing universities professors and book stores reduce the cost text-books required for courses by and prevent unneccessary "bundling".
HB 1079	Co-Sponsor	Ensuring that foods sold as "Halal" aren't fraudulently labeled.
HB 1105	Co-Sponsor	Requiring a law enforcement officer to take specified actions if an arrest is made.
HB 1106	Co-Sponsor	Allowing the issuance of protective orders in response to a police arrest even if the court is closed (on the weekends).
HB 1108	Co-Sponsor	Forcing retailers to expunge data collected on credit-card swipe machines within 48 hours of the sales transaction.
HB 1118	Co-Sponsor	Allocating $1,000,000 in matching funds for Mansfield Kaseman Health Center (Community Ministries of Rockville).
HB 1125	Co-Sponsor	Establishing the Maryland Universal Health Care Plan.
HB 1137	Co-Sponsor	Prohibiting the production or sale of "foie gras" (duck liver induced with disease by force-feeding).
HB 1157	Co-Sponsor	Establishing a $2,000 fine for behavior designated as "road-rage".
HB 1160	Co-Sponsor	Establishing a task-force on quiet vehicles and pedestrian safety for the benefit of blind pedestrians.
HB 1176	Co-Sponsor	Establishing a task-force on childhood obesity.
HB 1195	Co-Sponsor	Requiring off-road vehicles to be titled by the MVA.
HB 1206	Co-Sponsor	Prohibiting the bundling of state procurement to limit participation from certain bidders.
HB 1235	Co-Sponsor	Exempting specified employers from the requirement to pay a specified wage for overtime.
HB 1236	Co-Sponsor	Allowing all graduates of Maryland public schools to be eligible for in-state tuition.
HB 1253	Co-Sponsor	Forcing home improvement contractor to comply with environmental rules to protect the Chesapeake Bay.
HB 1260	Co-Sponsor	Allowing wine to be directly shipped to Maryland to a consumers.
HB 1261	Co-Sponsor	Preventing housing discrimination based on the source of one's income.
HB 1277	Co-Sponsor	Increasing the use of minority-owned brokerage and investment services for state funds.
HB 1287	Co-Sponsor	Establishing the Parren J. Mitchell Public Service Summer Internship Scholarship Program at Morgan State University.
HB 1301	Co-Sponsor	Establishing the Jane E. Lawton Conservation Loan Program to promote and invest in energy efficiency and other forms of conservation.
HB 1310	Co-Sponsor	Raising the alcohol tax to fund addiction treatment and prevention.
HB 1312	Co-Sponsor	Raising the age from 5 to 7 for children required to use a booster seat in automobiles.
HB 1323	Co-Sponsor	Reducing the amount awarded by the Criminal Injuries Compensation Board if the victim was involved or complicit in their own injuries.
HB 1328	Co-Sponsor	Abolishing the death penalty.
HB 1378	Co-Sponsor	Prohibiting convicted felons from possessing ammunition.
HB 1409	Co-Sponsor	Establishing a grant program for nano-biotechnology research projects.
HB 1420	Co-Sponsor	Prohibiting the placement of a lien on a condominium while a dispute over the lien amount is pending.
HB 1447	Co-Sponsor	Creating the a state board to license and oversee tax-preparers.

House Bill 1401: Radio Frequency Identification Chip Insertion Prevention Act

Did you know that certain companies actually implant computer chips under the skin of their employees? It sounds like the creepy plot of a science-fiction movie, but its true.

I have seen reports that some companies are embedding tiny computer chips known as RFIDs under the skin of their employees wrists so that they can control access to sensitive rooms. Instead of waving their badges in front of a reader, these employees, just wave their wrists. Its like the ultimate SpeedPass technology! You can read Time Magazine articles about this subject by clicking here and here.

But it is a very very bad idea for numerous reasons. Firstly, there are very serious questions about the safety of having a radio-wave emitting device inside your body. There are some unconfirmed reports that they might cause cancer. More importantly though, there are a whole host of privacy and civil-liberty issues that this activity raises. Will the employer track employees movement throughout the day? Who will that tracking information be shared with? Is there a chance the employer will track their employees outside the workplace without their consent? What happens when the employee leaves the company? The privacy implications of such a system are profound and frankly dangerous. It reminds me of George Orwell's 1984.

For this reason, I have introduced House Bill 1401: The Radio Frequency Identification Chip Insertion Prevention Act. This bill would prevent employers from inserting any RFID chip into the body of any employee. Doctors who need to implant it into patients for medical purposes can still do that. And people can continue to implant them into their pets. But employers can't implant them into their employees. Period.

You can read the actual text of the bill by clicking here.

- Saqib

House Bill 110: Wireless Telephone Service Billing Change Notification Act

Do you own a cell phone? Most adults I know do. Cell phones seem to have become a necessity of modern-day American life. My daily activities would be significantly different if I didn't have my cell phone with me. Not only do I use it to communicate with my family and friends, but I use it to take photos, set alarms, record to-do lists, send text messages, browse the internet, tell time, etc.

As ubiquitous as cell phones have become, it seems that nearly everyone I know has some nightmare story of being overcharged by their cell phone providers. Very often the cause of the overcharge is a misunderstanding or miscommunication between the customer and the wireless provider. Often notification of increased charges are buried deep within huge monthly billing statements that are extremely dense and don't lend themselves to easy analysis. The problem is that often such charges go unnoticed for months before any corrective action is taken leading to many wasted dollars.

Here is a simple example of what I'm talking about: My own monthly cell phone bill is usually between $120 and $140 per month depending on how much I use it. My cell-phone company offers a service called "picture-mail" which allows me to email photos taken on my cell phone to any email address. The cost for this great service is $5 per month. The Picture-mail service can be activated by calling the phone company and requesting it... or it can be activated simply by accessing a menu on my phone and pressing some buttons.

I have a lovely 21-month old daughter. She is a doll. She also loves to play with Daddy's cell phone and press buttons. She (or even I!) might mistakenly order the Picture-mail service. The extra $5 monthly charge on my bill would very likely go unnoticed by me for a very long time... Even if I didn't mean to order it.

There are numerous other examples (which don't involve a baby pressing phone buttons) where I have seen changes in monthly billing rates go unnoticed for a long time. Some of them have been caused be errors by cell phone company staff. So I have introduced House Bill 110: The Wireless Telephone Billing Change Notification Act.

This bill mandates that that "a wireless telephone service provider shall send written notice to a residential customer within 10 days of any change in the rates, terms or conditions of the customer's wireless telephone service." The legislation also stipulates that such a notice must be sent by US Mail "separately from a bill or other correspondence".

This legislation would ensure that if your monthly cell phone bill changes (increase or decrease) for any reason, you will be notified and there won't be any surprises.

You can read the actual text of the legislation by clicking here.

- Saqib

House Bill #10: The Unattended Child Protection Act

Over the past few months it has come to my attention that Maryland is woefully lacking a substantial law to punish parents and care-takers who leave young children unattended.

Click here to read the Washington Post editorial that describes the harrowing case of a Prince George’s County mother who left her 5 young children and a dog unattended – in filthy surroundings, without food – for an extended period of time. Amazingly, the criminal punishment she faced for leaving the dog was three times as severe as for leaving each of her children. The Prince George’s County State’s Attorney pointed out that the laws currently on the books need to change. Clearly, the disparity here just doesn't make sense.

For this reason I have teamed up with Delegate Kathleen Dumais to introduce House Bill #10: The Unattended Child Protection Act of 2008 in the Maryland General Assembly which will commence on January 9th. This bill will increase the criminal penalties for anyone who is convicted of leaving a child under the age of 8 years-old without adult supervision in a building. It would increase the maximum jail time from 1 month to 3 years and would increase the maximum fine from $500 to $2,000. I believe this change in our law will send a strong signal to those who would abandon or neglect helpless young children.

In the coming weeks and months, I will work hard to ensure that this much-needed, common-sense legislation is passed into law.

You can read the actual text of the bill here.

- Saqib

Saqib Ali's Annapolis Report 11/28/2007

As you may know, on Monday October 29th, the Maryland General Assembly convened in a "Special Session" ordered by Governor Martin O'Malley. At 2:10 am on Monday November 19th, after a marathon 9-hour session of the House of Delegates, the Special Session finally came to a conclusion. I'm writing to you today to give you a report of the activity that transpired in those 21 very hectic days.

The Special Session was called to address Maryland's structural budget deficit, projected to be $1.5 billion for fiscal year 2009 and in future years. Maryland's deficit has loomed for over a decade as a result of several economic factors, including: a massive tax cut enacted in 1997 which eliminated $1 billion a year in state revenue; a necessary $1.3 billion increase in K-12 education spending ("Thornton"); declining state revenues attributable to readjustments in the real estate market; and escalating Medicaid costs at a rate of about 10% a year, of which the state must contribute 50%.

I'm delighted to report that by working under the leadership of Governor O'Malley, we were able to put Maryland back on a solid financial footing by closing this historic budget deficit. We did so by cutting $550 million dollars of spending and raising about $1 billion in taxes. Of course I don't like to raise taxes. Nobody does. However, I believe the citizens of Maryland cherish their government services (Roads, School Construction, Mass Transit, Prisons, etc) and are willing to pay for them if they see a commensurate benefit to their daily lives. In addition to closing the massive deficit we were able to achieve several victories for Maryland families. I have detailed these victories below.

Although we made great progress in this Special Session, I believe we also took a step backwards regarding the legalization of slot machine gambling ("Slots") in Maryland. I have always been a staunch opponent of legalizing Slots because I believe Slots are essentially a tax on the most vulnerable members of our society. The gambling lobby seized this opportunity to amend the State's Constitution to legalize Slots. I fought as hard as I could against this powerful and well-funded lobby. However, in the end, they were able to win the votes of 86 other Delegates to pass this Constitutional Amendment through the Legislature. The final hurdle of this Constitutional Amendment is a referendum by the voters in November of 2008. When the citizens of Maryland go to vote for their next President, they will also be asked if they want to legalize Slots. I hope at least 50% will join me in saying no.

Here is a laundry list of what we achieved this Special Session:

• Eliminating the Deficit: We raised about $1 billion towards the General Fund by overhauling our tax structure. We increased the sales tax from 5% to 6% (prescription drugs and groceries remain exempt). This increase was offset by providing a modest income tax cut for middle class families. Income taxes were increased on high earners ($200K+ per year). 46% of Marylanders will actually by paying less combined income + sales taxes. We closed some corporate tax loopholes and raised the corporate income tax from 7% to 8.25%.

• Spending Cuts: We made fiscally responsible cuts in state spending, saving $550 million for taxpayers, not including nearly $300 million in additional cuts that we made earlier this year.

• Education: We protected investments in education and helped keep college tuition affordable.

• Healthcare Reform: By increasing the tax on a pack of cigarettes from $1 to $2, we raised $600 million to implement major healthcare reforms, including measures to expand Medicaid eligibility, making healthcare more affordable for small businesses and to providing coverage for 100,000 currently uninsured Marylanders.

• Chesapeake Bay Cleanup: I was proud to cosponsor the "Chesapeake Bay 2010 Trust Fund", which earmarks $50 million for Bay restoration.

• Transportation Solutions: $400 million were allocated towards the Transportation Trust Fund, investing in critical transportation infrastructure, METRO, traffic reduction, and other improvements to protect our quality of life.

You can read the Washington Post's assessment of the accomplishments in the Special Session by clicking here.

- Saqib

You Scored a Victory for Transparency and Accountability!

A few weeks ago, I wrote about an important issue having to do with the way legislative vacancies are filled in Montgomery County. In that post I described the lack of transparency and accountability that the use of a secret ballot causes. You can review the contents of that email by reading this blog post.

I'm writing today to give you the great news that last night the Montgomery County Democratic Central Committee (MCDCC) voluntarily changed their rules to abandon the secret ballot! You can read about this change in the Washington Post's blog by clicking here. (I have included the text of that article below for your convenience).

Because of this rule change by the MCDCC, the legislation I introduced "Transparency in Accountability Act" is now redundant. So I have decided to withdraw it. If you had signed up to testify in favor of this bill, please be aware that bill-hearing is now canceled.

There is only 1 reason why the MCDCC changed their rules: You.
You made calls to the MCDCC office. You sent emails demanding this change. You made your voice heard in the corridors of power. When our citizens speak as loudly as you did, they cannot easily be ignored. Thank You.

I applaud and thank the members of the MCDCC for giving the hundreds of thousands of Montgomery County voters the transparency and accountability they so richly deserve.

Together our voices were heard. I'm gratified to be a part of this people-powered effort. I think you should be too!

- Saqib

Stand Up Against Secrecy in Montgomery County’s Halls of Power

This summer was a most remarkable time for Montgomery County’s Legislative Delegation. We had 2 State Legislators (Senator Hogan and Delegate Goldwater) resign only months into their 4-year terms. Because of a domino-effect, another vacancy in the House of Delegates was created when a sitting Delegate moved up to the Senate.

(Full Disclosure: I unsuccessfully applied to fill the vacancy left by Senator Hogan)

Most people expect that when such a vacancies arise, they would be filled by a special election or perhaps by Gubernatorial appointment. They would be wrong. Pursuant to the Maryland State Constitution, Article 3, Section 13 (which you can see by clicking here), legislative vacancies are filled by an awkward process: The Central Committee of the Party and County of the vacating legislator (got that?) submits a list of names to the Governor. The Governor must choose one of those names. Traditionally, the Central Committees force the Governor’s hand by sending a “list” of only one name. Since Montgomery County is now all-Democrat, that means that the Montgomery County Democratic Central Committee (MCDCC) effectively chooses the replacement.

Are ya with me so far? Good....

What is the MCDCC?

The MCDCC is a group of 23 volunteer Democratic activists from throughout Montgomery County who carry out the day-to-day functions of the Democratic Party. They meet on the second Tuesday of each month in a very modest office in Kensington. Most members of the MCDCC are solid, hard-working people doing quite a thankless job. Click here to see a listing of the MCDCC members.

The MCDCC members are elected in the Gubernatorial primary elections. Most voters don’t pay enough attention to these down-ballot races, but they should because the MCDCC members wield tremendous power in filling legislative vacancies. You might want to pop by to observe their next meeting. It’s open to the public!

How Does the MCDCC Appoint Replacement Legislators?

When a vacancy occurs, The MCDCC publicizes the vacancy and accepts applications from any interested candidates. At their regularly-scheduled meeting, the 23 members vote. It takes a majority (12) votes to win. So if nobody gets 12 votes right away, they drop the lowest vote-getter(s) and repeat until somebody gets 12 votes. It’s similar to instant-runoff voting.

Now here is the big problem: All Members of the MCDCC vote by secret ballot.

This means that these crucially important elections are decided by a small group of well-connected party-insiders in complete secrecy without any transparency or accountability to the hundreds of thousands of Montgomery County residents that elected them.

This should trouble anyone who is an advocate of open, honest government. It certainly troubles me. I don’t know who my elected MCDCC members voted for. And neither do you.

Private citizens vote secretly of course. But would you tolerate it if your Congressman, Senators and State Legislators made their most important votes in complete secrecy? Of course not! As an elected official I vote publicly all the time. If I can’t publicly defend my votes, then shame on me.

Not only does the secret ballot deprive County residents of accountability, but it warps the normal “campaigning” process (ie: lobbying the 23 members) in strange ways due to mistrust and double-dealing amongst the members.

Furthermore, this Gazette article makes very clear that by employing this secret ballot, the MCDCC has violated rules of the State Democratic Party.

Many people are actively criticizing this process. You can read an example of such criticism here.

For these reasons, I - along with Delegates Gutierrez, Montgomery and Heller - have introduced a bill (MC 808-08) entitled “Transparency in Appointments Act”. This bill would prohibit the use of secret ballots by County Central Committees. You can see it by clicking here.

But we need your help to get this bill passed into law. If you support open, honest government, please take the time to do all of the following:

1. Contact the MCDCC by phone (301-946-1000) and email (montgomerydems@msn.com). Ask them to “Stop the Secrecy” by endorsing MC 808-08.
2. Sign up to testify in support of this bill by clicking here. The hearing will be held at 6:30 pm on Thursday November 15^th at the County Council Building (100 Maryland Avenue, Rockville). We need you there!
3. Encourage all your Montgomery County Friends/Family/Relatives/Co-Workers to do the the above 2 steps.

I am counting on the good people of Montgomery County to stand up and fight against secret dealings in their government.

By the way, this bill should not in any way be construed as criticism against our new Senator or two new Delegates who are fine individuals and friends of mine. This is simply about sensibly reforming a flawed process and shining sunlight where it is needed for future appointments.

- Saqib Ali

My Letter: End Fund-Raising During the Special Session

Friends,

I wanted to bring to your attention my Letter to the Editor which was published in yesterday's edition of the Montgomery County Gazette. This letter points out a glaring weakness in Maryland's campaign finance laws as they relate to a Special Legislative Session.

You can see the letter by clicking here. I have included the full text of the letter below for your convenience.

In this letter I point out that unlike in a regular session there is no ban on Maryland Legislators from actively fund-raising while the special session is occurring. Currently there is strong talk of an imminent Special Session in which there will be an attempt to legalize slot-machine gambling. I think this issue takes on a much greater significance for this reason.

-Saqib

End Fund Raising During Special Sessions

Although I agree that the budget gap is the most pressing issue facing Maryland, I’m concerned about trying to use the special session as a way to find a ‘‘quick fix” to a problem that needs careful study, analysis, deliberation and debate (‘‘Governor outlines plan to close deficit,” Sept. 19 article).

In particular there is one important issue that I think has been overlooked by the press: Campaign finance reporting rules. It is completely legal for legislators to be actively fund raising during a special session. So in effect, there is nothing illegal about a lobbying group (such as the gaming industry) from setting up a tent outside the State House and offering legislators $4,000 campaign checks each in tacit exchange for their support. They can do this as the decisions are being made and the votes are being cast. And none of this would be publicly disclosed until January, well after all the important votes have been cast.

No matter how one feels about slot machines, I think this would be a terrible way for the legislature to conduct its business. The only reasonable way to avoid such corruption is to ban all fund raising during special sessions (as is already the case with regular sessions).

Furthermore, all legislators should have to disclose their campaign contributions immediately before and after the special session. It’s the only way to have honest and transparent government, which is what the voters deserve.

Saqib Ali, Gaithersburg

The writer, a Democrat, represents District 39 in the House of Delegates.

Test YouTube Post

This post is just a test to see if I can embed YouTube videos onto my blog.

Speaking Out Against Intolerance

One of the great privileges of being an elected official is that I am often asked to make public statements. I believe I have a responsibility to use this special privilege to promote a progressive public agenda that benefits all members of our community. I also believe that this privilege should be used to speak out forcefully against policies that divide our community and create distrust.

One issue that has been in the news lately is draconian anti-immigrant ordinances being promoted in certain Washington, DC area counties. Such mean-spirited ordinances do nothing but divide our communities and sow fear. Furthermore, they greatly increase the likelihood that law-enforcement agencies will resort to large-scale racial profiling. I believe such ordinances are bad public policy and should be opposed.

Last Saturday, I attended a public event in Northern Virginia at which the lead sponsor of such an ordinance addressed the gathered crowd. I took the opportunity to speak out forcefully against the ordinance in defense of values of tolerance and inclusiveness. You can read The Washington Post's description about that exchange by clicking here:

The afternoon's most dramatic moment came when Loudoun County Supervisor Eugene A. Delgaudio (R-Sterling), who has led efforts to crack down on illegal immigrants, took the microphone to make a rambling appeal to the Muslim voters in his eastern Loudoun district. Sterling is the home of one of the region's largest mosques.

"I stand with you," he shouted. But he drew scattered boos when he demanded to know whether those in the crowd "come in peace" and whether they pledge allegiance to the United States.

Moments later, Maryland Del. Saqib Ali (D-Montgomery), the first Muslim elected to a state or districtwide office in the Washington area, answered Delgaudio with a sharp rebuke that brought a roar of approval from the crowd.

"Our values are the values of tolerance and inclusion," Ali said. "Mr. Delgaudio . . . you do not reflect our values, even if you say you do."

I will continue speaking out against legislation that targets entire communities. If you support my efforts, please leave me a comment letting me know by clicking here. I would certainly like to hear your feedback.


- Saqib

Selection of New District 39 Senator: Nancy King

Dear Friends,

Senator Patrick Hogan from Maryland's 39th Legislative District recently announced his resignation. This set off a race to win an appointment to replace him. As you know, I was one of the candidates contesting for this appointment. That appointment process was held last night in Kensington Maryland. I regret to inform you that I was unable to win that appointment.

You can read the a prominent political blogger's account of the appointment process by clicking here.

In the end, my superb and hard-working campaign team and I put forth the best effort that we possibly could but we came up 3 votes short. We were faced with some insurmountable challenges beyond our control.

My heartiest congratulations to our next State Senator from District 39: Nancy King. Senator-Elect King and I have served together in the House of Delegates and will continue our close relationship for the benefit of our constituents. She will focus her efforts on education related issues in the Senate. I know that she will do a great job. The future of District 39 looks very bright indeed!

I also want to take this opportunity to congratulate the other candidates in this race: Delegate Charles Barkley and former Delegate Gene Counihan. Both ran excellent campaigns and provided our community with an opportunity for robust debate.

A special thanks is due to a close circle of campaign supporters who assisted me greatly: Asad Rahman, Sally Hand, Chris Wilhelm, Jason Waskey, Ben Moskowitz and my parents: Samina and Haider Ali, my sister Sarah Shakir and most of all my wife Susan Ali. Many other people also assisted me in ways great and small. Unfortunately, they are too numerous to name individually. But the efforts of each one is greatly appreciated as well.

Once again: Congratulations Senator-Elect King!

- Saqib

Town Hall Meeting at Washington Grove

This evening Senator P.J. Hogan, Delegates Charles Barkley, Nancy King and I held a town-hall meeting in Washington Grove. The meeting was held in McCatharan Hall, the graceful town center built in 1877. The meeting was open to the public. All were invited!!

About 40 residents attended. Each one of the legislators gave an approximately 5-minute chat about what was accomplished in Annapolis this year. We all went into details about the topics covered within our respective committees. Senator Hogan focused on budgetary issues. Delegate Barkley focused on public safety. Delegate King discussed educational issues and I talked about the Environment.

Afterwards, the residents asked us questions on all topics... especially those that affected Washington Grove directly. In general, the feedback was quite positive. We got started at 7:00 pm. By the time they turned off the lights and kicked us out, it was about 9:00 pm.

The picture shows from left, Senator Hogan (seated in white shirt), Delegate Barkley (speaking at podium), Delegate King (dark jacket, green dress), myself (in the corner looking downwards) and the backs of residents heads in the foreground.

- Saqib

PS. The history of Washington Grove is fascinating. It started as a Methodist Retreat in the 19th century. Read all about it by clicking here. It is known as "a town within a forest".

Book-Reading at Jones Lane Elementary School

I was recently privileged to receive an invitation to visit Jones Lane Elementary School in North Potomac to read a book to a class. I was delighted to be invited to spend some time with a classroom full of bright, inquiring minds. So I jumped at the chance. I just finished reading to Ms. Christy Jenkins' second-grade class!

When I arrived, the school staff asked me to choose a book from a pile. I selected "Harvesting Hope: The Story of César Chávez" by Kathleen Krull.

César Chávez (March 31, 1927 – April 23, 1993) was a Mexican American farm worker, labor leader, and civil rights activist who co-founded the National Farm Workers Association, which later became the United Farm Workers. His work led to numerous improvements for union workers. He is considered a hero for farm laborers. He is hailed as one of the greatest American civil rights leaders. His birthday has become a holiday in four U.S. states. Many parks, cultural centers, libraries, schools, and streets have been named in his honor in several cities across the United States.

The book described the story of his life and his tireless struggles for farm laborers. The children were riveted as I read it to them. Afterwards, we discussed what lessons they learned (persistence pays, violence doesn't, stand up for the weak). It was a growing experience for them and for me!

- Saqib

Saqib Ali's Annapolis Report 4/19/2007

Dear Friend,

I am the newly elected representative of the 39th Legislative District in Maryland's House of Delegates. District 39 includes Montgomery Village, Washington Grove and parts of Gaithersburg, Germantown, North Potomac and Derwood.

Midnight on Monday April 9 marked the end of Maryland's 423rd annual 90-day legislative session in Annapolis. Thanks in great part to incredibly engaged constituents, I was able lend my voice to a number of progressive issues this year. Below are just a few highlights of some of my legislative accomplishments this year:

Telecommuting Program Study Act:
I passed a bill that requires the state to study the Telework Partnership with Employers (TPE) program. TPE is the program through which employees and employers foster telecommuting arrangements. Telecommuting saves money for businesses and employees, saves time and stress, reduces traffic congestion, helps the environment and provides a better work-life balance. This study will help more people take advantage of the program, and guide the program's growth in the future. The text of this bill can be found by clicking here.

Eminent Domain Tax Credit Act:
I collaborated with Senator Patrick Hogan to successfully pass a bill that enables local governments to provide tax-credits to homeowners whose property is taken by eminent domain. This bill will protect homeowners from much higher tax rates on a new home when they are forced to move. This bill can be viewed by clicking here.

Living Wage Act:
This bill (which passed) mandates a two-tiered hourly "living wage" ($11.30/$8.50) for all state-contracted employees well above the minimum wage. This will help pull some of the "working-poor" families off of food stamps and out of poverty. This is historic and landmark legislation at the State level (Montgomery County already had its own local ordinance). It is the first of its kind nationwide.

Sudan Divestiture Act:
This bill (which passed) addresses the ongoing genocide in Darfur -- the worst tragedy of this century. This bill remove all state investments in companies that conduct business with the Sudanese government. If enough States and Nations pass such laws, pressure on Sudan may prevail to end the conflict. The actual text of the bill can be viewed by clicking here.

Closing the "Deadbeat-Lawyers" Loophole:
I supported Delegate Charles Barkley's bill (which passed) in response to a constituent's complaint. Currently, any person not making child support payments can lose a professional license issued by the State of Maryland, including doctors, cosmetologists, plumbers, etc -- except Lawyers! This bill closes that loophole. Now lawyers who refuse to pay their child support can lose their legal licenses, too. The actual text of this bill can be by clicking here.

Relocatable Classrooms Air Quality Act:
I supported Delegate Nancy King's bill (which passed) in response to the growing number of children spending their days in portable classrooms. This legislation will make sure that certain air-quality standards are met in those portables, so we can be assured that our children are learning in a healthy environment (with the eventual goal of eliminating these portables altogether). The actual text of this bill can be viewed by clicking here.

The next session starts in January of 2008. In the interim, I have returned to my full-time job as a software engineer. During this time I will also be working hard doing constituent services, attending community events and collecting ideas for next year's legislative session.

As always, I urge you to contact me with your stance and input on issues of importance to you so that I may represent your interests. You can keep up-to-date on my efforts by reading my blog at www.SaqibAli.org.

Sincerely,
Delegate Saqib Ali
(301) 685-3409
www.SaqibAli.org

PS . . . The District 39 Democratic Club will be holding its next meeting in Germantown on April 19th (tonight) at 7:00 pm. All four of the District 39 State Legislators will be presenting our legislative report to our constituents. Please stop by to chat and mingle if you can. All are welcome! Here are the details:

Upcounty Regional Services Center
12900 Middlebrook Road, Room A
Germantown, MD 20874
April 19, 2007 @ 7:00pm
Light refreshments will be served

Tonight I read a House Prayer for Victims of War

Today, on the very last session of the House, I had the distinct honor of giving the opening prayer. I decided to offer a prayer for victims of war. Here is what I said:

"Dear Colleagues, Let us pray

Let us give thanks to God for giving us the privilege to serve in this House so that we can carry out the will of the people of Maryland.

Let us give thanks for our families, friends and employers who patiently give us support during our annual 90-day absence.

Let us remember our brave troops in the harm’s way who sacrifice so much.

But most of all let us also remember the tens of thousands of innocent victims of war; These are people who show up in our newspapers as statistics. People without names or faces or identities….. but victims of war. Let us remember them.

Amen."

You can hear a recording of the prayer by clicking here. You can hear me speaking right after the opening Pledge of Allegiance for about 1 minute.

-Saqib

Saqib Ali's Annapolis Report 4/3/2007

Dear Friend,

I am the newly elected representative of the 39th Legislative District in Maryland's House of Delegates. District 39 includes Montgomery Village, Washington Grove and parts of Gaithersburg, Germantown, North Potomac and Derwood. As Maryland's annual 90-day legislative session enters its final week, I would like to give you a quick update on some important being finalized here in Annapolis.

Jessica's Law (Ali Voted "Aye")
Protecting children from sexual predators has become one of the most pressing issues nationwide. Last week we in the House passed "Jessica's Law" which would remove the possibility of parole for child sexual predators. This bill is named after the tragic 10 year-old California crime victim Jessica Lunsford. This legislation will go a long way in keeping sexual predators off our streets. The actual text of the bill can be viewed by clicking here. It awaits a signature by the Governor to become law.

Electoral College Reform (Ali Voted "Aye")
Yesterday the House approved a bill making the national presidential election fairer for all Americans, and Marylanders in particular. This bill mandates that Maryland, along with other states, will award its electoral college votes to the candidate who wins the national popular vote. The bill will only go into effect when a majority of other states have passed similar legislation. Maryland, a state long-ignored by national candidates in favor of "swing-states" will rise in importance during the presidential campaign. The actual text of the bill can be viewed by clicking here. It awaits a signature by the Governor to become law.

Voter-Verified Paper Receipts (Ali Voted "Aye")
Many voters expressed disapproval of the electronic voting machines used in the 2006 election, partly because they did not feel confident that their vote was being accurately recorded. In response, the House of Delegates recently passed legislation that will require every voting machine to produce a voter-verified receipt for the purposes of a recount. I voted in favor of this measure, and I am hopeful that the bill will guarantee that your vote in the 2010 election will be counted properly. The actual text of the bill can be viewed by clicking here. Currently the House and the Senate are working to reconcile their respective versions of this bill. My hope is that the House version prevails and is signed by the Governor.

Regret Over Slavery Resolution (Ali Voted "Aye")
The Maryland House of Delegates passed a resolution expressing regret for Maryland's historical role in slavery. We became the second state, after Virginia, to pass this resolution this year. Voting for the bill in Annapolis has significant meaning, as this city was a major slave-trading port. Thousands of Africans were sold along the waterfront just steps away from the place where I proudly cast a vote supporting this measure. The actual text of the resolution can be viewed by clicking here. It awaits a signature by the Governor to become law.

Statewide Smoking Ban (Ali Voted "Aye")
The House and the Senate both passed legislation last week that will ban the smoking of cigarettes in all indoor areas open to the public, including all restaurants and bars, throughout Maryland. This measure will protect thousands of people everyday from the hazards of second-hand smoke; certainly a step in the right direction in the fight to protect the health and well-being of all Marylanders. The actual text of the bill can be viewed by clicking here. Currently the House and the Senate are working to reconcile their respective versions of this bill. The Governor has signaled that he will sign the reconciled bill into law.

During this final week of the legislative session the House and Senate will be considering and reconciling bills from the other chamber. Throughout this process, I will continue to support progressive, innovative legislation as your representative in Annapolis.

As always, I urge you to contact me with your stance and input on issues of importance to you so that I may represent your interests. You can keep up-to-date on my efforts by reading my blog at www.SaqibAli.org.

Sincerely,

- Saqib

(301) 591-1612
www.SaqibAli.org

House Expresses Profound Regret over Slavery

Today I am so proud about something we did in the House of Delegates: we passed a resolution "expressing profound regret for the role that Maryland played in instituting and maintaining slavery and for the discrimination that was slavery's legacy." Maryland is only the second state (after Virginia) to officially acknowledge its past role in the horrible practice, which was abolished in Maryland in 1864. This measure was long, long overdue. I'm glad I was a part of the unanimous vote in favor of it.


If you would like to read more about this House Resolution and the issue nationwide, please read the Baltimore Sun article by clicking here. The picture above shows us moments after we passed the bill. I'm wearing the yellow tie, near the back, clapping.

You can click here to read the actual text of the resolution.

- Saqib

Voter Verified Paper-Trails Bill Passes House!

Today the Maryland House of Delegates passed a very important piece of legislation that I've proudly co-sponsored - HB 18 - Voter-Verified Paper Records!

This bill requires the State Board of Elections to establish a paper trail for our elections, starting with the 2010 primary election. I campaigned on this issue, and was proud to sign on as a sponsor to the bill earlier this session. It was a long struggle, but in the end we passed the bill unanimously! This bill isn't perfect. I would have preferred to see it go into effect in 2008. But for fiscal reasons, this compromise was reached.

The security of our elections is one of the most important challenges facing our democracy as we move further into an all-digital world. As a software engineer, I know the dangers of relying on computers with no backup system. Testing has shown that our electronic voting machines are vulnerable to errors and hacking. With this legislation, we will have a way to verify our votes and keep the system as honest as possible.

Now the bill goes to the Senate, where it will face an uphill battle. Stay tuned for more information as the final 19 days of my first legislation session go by!

To see the bill text, click here.

To read a Washington Post article about this legislation click here.

- Saqib

The Children and Working Families Health Act of 2007

An exciting new bill passed the House on today that will expand access to health-care for thousands of Marylanders.

If this bill passes the Senate and is then signed by the Governor, insurers will be required to cover dependents up to age 25 and will expand Medicaid in order to include substance abuse treatment. Uncompensated care costs taxpayers in our state upwards of $8 million each year, and a $1 increase on the cigarette tax will be dedicated to reducing the pressure of this deficit on tax payers.

The bill will now go to the senate for consideration. This is an exciting and innovative way to dually accomplish funding health care and discourage cigarette use by minors.

To see a Washington Post article about this initiative, click here.

-Saqib

Saqib Ali's Annapolis Report 3/12/2007

Dear Friend,

I am the elected representative of the 39th Legislative District in Maryland's House of Delegates. District 39 includes Montgomery Village, Washington Grove and parts of Gaithersburg, Germantown, North Potomac and Derwood. As Maryland's 90-day legislative session enters its final month, I wanted to give you a brief update on what I am doing for residents of District 39 and all Marylanders here in Annapolis.

I recently introduced House Bill 739 (the Consumer Loyalty Card Act of 2007) to the respective committees in both houses of the General Assembly. Both the House and Senate hearings went exceptionally well, and I will continue to fight to get this important consumer protection measure through the legislative process. You can read more about this common sense consumer privacy protection bill by clicking here.

Other key legislation that I'm pushing:

• Clean Indoor-Air Act ( HB 359): Would ban smoking in all bars and restaurants throughout Maryland. Currently such a ban is already in force in Baltimore City as well as Montgomery and Prince George's Counties.
• Bottle/Can Recycling Deposit Act (HB 839): Would establish a recycling deposit program so that littered beverage cans and bottles can be redeemed for a 5¢ fee.
  
• Living Wage Act (HB 430): Would mandate that all state employees (and contracted workers) be paid at least $11.95/hour.
  
• Death Penalty Repeal Act (HB 225): Would replace Maryland's death penalty with life imprisonment without the possibility of parole.
  

The coming weeks promise to be a new experience for me. The waning days of the legislative session are typically a whirlwind of activity. I look forward to exerting myself to the fullest to represent the people of District 39 and Maryland as best I can.

As always, I urge you to contact me with your stance and input on issues of importance to you so that I may represent your interests! You can keep up-to-date on my efforts by reading my blog www.SaqibAli.org.

Sincerely,

-Saqib
(301) 591-1612
www.SaqibAli.org

District 39 Dinner Reception in Annapolis!

Thanks to everyone who made the trip to Annapolis this evening for the reception with the 39^th District Team, including Del. Charles Barkley, Del. Nancy King, Sen. PJ Hogan, and of course, myself. The event was a success!

Tonight we welcomed constituents to join the 39^th District Team in Annapolis to eat, converse, and to observe the legislative team in action. We enjoyed good food, and I relished the chance to give my constituents a taste of what it is like in Annapolis. We even got a chance to hear from Lieutenant Governor Anthony Brown!

The legislative session starts at 8pm on Monday each week, so a number of constituents were able to come over to the Statehouse to observe the House of Delegates at work. I recognized a number of constituents who made it over to the Statehouse by announcing their presence to all in attendance during Monday night session.

Thanks again for the strong show of support; it means a lot to interact with the people I am working hard to represent!

- Saqib Ali

Saqib Ali's Annapolis Report 2/26/2007

Dear Friend,

I am the newly-elected representative of the 39^th Legislative District in Maryland's House of Delegates. District 39 includes Montgomery Village, Washington Grove and parts of Gaithersburg, Germantown, North Potomac and Derwood. We have just passed the mid-point of Maryland's 90-day legislative session. So I wanted to give you a brief update about what I've been doing here at the State Capital.

I was sworn in with 140 other membes of the House of Delegates on January 10^th. With the opening of the 423^rd session of the Maryland General Assembly, I immediately started working on legislation to benefit residents of Montgomery County and Maryland.

I was assigned to the Environmental Matters Committee, where I deal with legislation concerning air quality, protection of the Chesapeake Bay, global warming, agricultural issues, and many more topics. You can find more information about the Environmental Matters Committee by clicking here. While a great deal of my energy is spent working in the Environmental Matters Committee, I am also focusing on good, progressive legislation outside of scope of this committee.

My key piece of legislation this session is House Bill 739, which has been dubbed "The Customer Loyalty Card Act of 2007". This bill (which you can be read more about by clicking here) is an innovative consumer protection initiative designed to safeguard personal information collected by corporations about you and me as consumers. Over 60% of my House colleagues cosponsored this bill (a very high amount!) and Senator Lisa Gladden from Baltimore City is pushing the bill in the Senate. Next week we have our first committee hearing, and my staff and I are preparing testimony and lining up support.

I am also the chief author of two bills which aim to increase telecommuting in our state. These measures will help employers and employees work out arrangements to allow for more telecommuting, thereby alleviating traffic, saving time and money, and cleaning up our environment.

Other initiatives I'm sponsoring include:

• The Clean Cars Act: Requires that cars sold in Maryland are more environmentally friendly
• The Geographic Cost of Education Index Act: Increases funding to local school systems based on the cost of providing education (Montgomery County Public Schools will benefit)
• Children & Working Families Health Care Act: Extends health insurance to nearly 250,000 uninsured Marylanders, including every uninsured child in Maryland.
  

At the bottom of this email I have included a more extensive list of legislation I am working on this session. Please browse through it and feel free to read the actual text of the bills by clicking on the bill number.

As the second half of the 2007 session begins, I will have many challenging decisions to make as Delegate. To help me make wise decisions, I need to hear from you, my constituents, neighbors and friends. Please contact me about your stance on issues & legislation of concern to you, so that I can be the best representative possible.

It is a great honor to represent the people of District 39. Over the coming weeks, I will keep you up-to-date on my efforts here in Annapolis. Please read my blog which can be found at my website: www.SaqibAli.org. I'll try to update it as often as possible.

Sincerely,
- Saqib

(301) 591-1612
www.SaqibAli.org

Bill Number	Support Level	Description
HB 739	Lead Sponsor	Protecting consumers data when they use retailer-issued loyalty cards and establishing a consumer's "right of inquiry"
HB 755	Lead Sponsor	Providing a property tax credit to people whose homes are taken due to eminent domain
HB 1150	Lead Sponsor	Commissioning a report to study Maryland's telecommuting needs
HB 1151	Lead Sponsor	Mandating a budget increase from the current $50K/year to $100K/year in FY'09 for the telecommuting section within Maryland's Dept. of Transportation
HB 1246	Lead Sponsor	Preventing long-term confinement of pregnant pigs in unusually cruel 2'x7' cages
HB 74	Co-Sponsor	Increasing the maximum grant available under the Solar Energy Grant Program
HB 117	Co-Sponsor	Authorizing a consumer to elect to place a security freeze on the her/his credit report
HB 123	Co-Sponsor	Requiring businesses to notify individuals of a breach of the security of a system
HB 131	Co-Sponsor	Raising Maryland's automobile emission standards to California's level
HB 139	Co-Sponsor	Providing funds to county boards of education to reflect regional differences in the cost of education
HB 164	Co-Sponsor	Establishing standards and specifications to enhance the indoor air quality of re-locatable classrooms
HB 204	Co-Sponsor	Providing a tax credit for students who purchase textbooks for higher level education
HB 208	Co-Sponsor	Requiring credit reporting agencies to "freeze" consumers records on demand to protect against unauthorized access.
HB 219	Co-Sponsor	Strengthening penalties on intoxicated drivers
HB 220	Co-Sponsor	Continuing to issue Chesapeake Bay Commemorative License Plates and the special registration plates honoring State agriculture
HB 225	Co-Sponsor	Repealing the death penalty
HB 249	Co-Sponsor	Banning sexual relations between prisoners and guards
HB 253	Co-Sponsor	Increasing grant amounts in the state's Solar Energy Grant Program
HB 261	Co-Sponsor	Requiring drivers of All Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) to wear protective headgear
HB 273	Co-Sponsor	Restoring voting-rights for former felons
HB 288	Co-Sponsor	Increasing the cigarette tax by $1 per pack
HB 305	Co-Sponsor	Commissioning a report to study Maryland's recreational boating industry
HB 324	Co-Sponsor	Requiring those seeking a divorce to swear that they have removed all obstacles preventing their spouse from getting re-married
HB 327	Co-Sponsor	Establishing a property tax exemption for business incubators
HB 336	Co-Sponsor	Expanding eligibility for Medicaid
HB 349	Co-Sponsor	Obtaining $120,000 for Shady Grove Adventist Hospital
HB 359	Co-Sponsor	Banning smoking in all restaurants and bars throughout Maryland
HB 398	Co-Sponsor	Raising the minimum State Liability insurance level from $20,000 to $30,000
HB 400	Co-Sponsor	Establishing universal healthcare in Maryland
HB 401	Co-Sponsor	Requiring the installation of carbon monoxide alarms within 15 feet of each bedroom
HB 412	Co-Sponsor	Allowing for weights on the devices used to dredge oyster shells from the Chesapeake Bay floor
HB 415	Co-Sponsor	Making it easier for battered women to obtain a protective order
HB 417	Co-Sponsor	Mandating environmental testing for housing developments built on former golf courses
HB 418	Co-Sponsor	Establishing a recycling program for mercury switches in automobiles
HB 427	Co-Sponsor	Lengthening the duration of a final protective order from 1 to 2 years
HB 430	Co-Sponsor	Mandating a "living wage" for all state employees and contractors
HB 431	Co-Sponsor	Obtaining $500,000 for Woodstock Equestrian Park
HB 433	Co-Sponsor	Obtaining $225,000 for the Germantown Boys & Girls Club
HB 434	Co-Sponsor	Raising the sales tax by �� and dedicating the funds to mass transit
HB 440	Co-Sponsor	Enabling local jurisdictions to restrict "Jake-breaking" by trucks in residential areas
HB 441	Co-Sponsor	Establishing a tax on assault weapons
HB 444	Co-Sponsor	Placing restrictions on "raiding" the Transportation Trust Fund
HB 451	Co-Sponsor	Establishing a tax-free holiday to buy energy-efficient products
HB 457	Co-Sponsor	Creating a new class of mortician's licenses that doesn't have an embalming requirement
HB 518	Co-Sponsor	Establishing a hotel-tax in Gaithersburg
HB 548	Co-Sponsor	Mandating that first-time drug-users charged with simple possession receive treatment instead of incarceration
HB 554	Co-Sponsor	Restoring voting-rights for former felons
HB 571	Co-Sponsor	Delaying issuance of drivers licenses for chronic school truants
HB 576	Co-Sponsor	Obtaining $50,000 for Katherine Thomas High School
HB 586	Co-Sponsor	Making state contractual employees eligible for healthcare benefits
HB 619	Co-Sponsor	Mandating that school super-intendants notify their school boards if they are charged with a crime.
HB 631	Co-Sponsor	Mandating that power companies implement energy efficiency and conservation programs
HB 639	Co-Sponsor	Mandating parental accountability for chronic school truants
HB 641	Co-Sponsor	Preventing predatory towing of vehicles.
HB 648	Co-Sponsor	Denying rapists child-custody of an offspring produced by that crime
HB 673	Co-Sponsor	Banning unattended tethering of a dog for an extended period of time
HB 701	Co-Sponsor	Appropriating funds for the operation of state forests and parks
HB 703	Co-Sponsor	Establishing a commission on climate change and clean energy alternatives
HB 713	Co-Sponsor	Banning membership in a criminal gang
HB 731	Co-Sponsor	Establishing publicly financed election campaigns
HB 754	Co-Sponsor	Expanding health insurance to cover all of Maryland's children and more of our working families
HB 757	Co-Sponsor	Establishing a tax on certain liquors (to be spent on addiction-prevention)
HB 760	Co-Sponsor	Establishing a moratorium on the harvest of terrapins from the Chesapeake Bay
HB 770	Co-Sponsor	Maintaining the current level of service for CSX and Amtrak rail lines
HB 780	Co-Sponsor	Obtaining $2,000,000 for a Dr. Martin Luther King Memorial
HB 792	Co-Sponsor	Eliminating the loophole that prevents lawyers from loosing their licenses if they are delinquent on child-support payments
HB 839	Co-Sponsor	Establishing a recycling program for bottles
HB 841	Co-Sponsor	Restricting local municipalities from taking land by eminent domain unless it is for the purpose of a public good such as a through-road
HB 875	Co-Sponsor	Allowing the city of Kensington to purchase its own energy-efficient street-lights instead of relying on Montgomery County
HB 876	Co-Sponsor	Banning human trafficking and indentured servitude
HB 879	Co-Sponsor	Mandating standards and regulations for forensic laboratories
HB 890	Co-Sponsor	Reducing green-house gas emissions
HB 895	Co-Sponsor	Establishing a scholarship for youths at risk of joining gangs
HB 906	Co-Sponsor	Allowing schools to purchase locally grown foods if they are up to 105% of the price of the cheapest competitor
HB 909	Co-Sponsor	Establishing energy-efficiency standards for appliances higher than existing federal standards
HB 910	Co-Sponsor	Raising the minimum age for correctional officers to 21.
HB 917	Co-Sponsor	Expediting a finding of identity theft so that victims can quickly clear their names
HB 945	Co-Sponsor	Banning employment and residential discrimination against trans-gender individuals
HB 997	Co-Sponsor	Expanding eligibility for Maryland's Children's Health Program
HB 998	Co-Sponsor	Establishing training and certification standards for paid tax preparers
HB 1036	Co-Sponsor	Banning impersonating someone else for the purposes of ID-theft
HB 1042	Co-Sponsor	Simplifying certain campaign finance filings for political candidates
HB 1044	Co-Sponsor	Raising the criminal penalty for a second ID-theft conviction
HB 1046	Co-Sponsor	Raising awareness of self-injury caused by "cutting"
HB 1056	Co-Sponsor	Ensuring that college text-books are readily available in electronic format to blind students
HB 1062	Co-Sponsor	Raising the percentage of electricity sales by utility companies that must be met through the accumulation of renewable energy credits
HB 1069	Co-Sponsor	Ensuring "Net Neutrality" in Maryland. IE: That internet service provide must provide access to all websites equally, without charging any extra fees.
HB 1081	Co-Sponsor	Commissioning a report to study risk management and loss control
HJ0003	Co-Sponsor	Protesting the Federal REAL ID Act

Muslim/Jewish Interfaith event a great success!

Dear Friends,

I'm delighted to tell you about a thrilling event that I was privleged to be a part of today: A Muslim/Jewish day of friendship.

Over the years the Montgomery County Muslim Council and the Adat Shalom Reconstructionist Congregation have formed a partnership to foster understanding and friendship between these two communities. I'm proud to say that I have been an integral part of this friendship from the very start.


Today we continued building our friendship by having several members of the MCMC visit Adat Shalom's Shabbat Service. Members of MCMC were very warmly welcomed by the congregation and were treated like VIPs.

The Shabbat service was beautiful mix of old and new. There was plenty in English (that I could understand) as well as Hebrew (which I couldn't!). The singing was set to drums, guitar and a tambourine. We watched intently as the Torah scrolls were unveiled and carried around the room. Afterwards we shared a great lunch with the congregation and chatted about theological similarities and differences between the two faiths. At the end we took a group photo (above). It really was a great heartwarming experience.... And hopefully in some small way made the world a better place.

To read an article about a previous Muslim/Jewish Day of Friendship that I organized, click here.


- Saqib

HB 739: The Consumer Loyalty Card Act - What It's All About

WashPost blog here.
Text of the bill here.

We voted. "Clean Cars Bill" passes the House of Delegates!

Today we passed a bill in the House of Delegates that will raise our vehicle emission standards over the next four years to match California's. It is House Bill 131 and is known as the Maryland "Clean Cars Act"

The passage of the Maryland Clean Cars Act of 2007 is a great success for our state. Our air will be cleaner and our cars will be more fuel efficient. We will have less greenhouse gases being emitted. And we expect the incidence of childhood asthma and cancers to decrease throughout the state

The final vote was 122-16. I of course voted for the bill.

As your Delegate, I am committed to doing all that I can to combat global warming and protect our environment. Because of my firm belief that we must keep our air clean, I am proud to have cosponsored this legislation.

For this bill to become law, the Senate needs to pass it and Governor needs to sign it.

To learn read the text of the bill, click here.
To see the Washington Post's coverage of this momentous bill, click here.

Let's continue to work together to preserve our environment!
-Saqib

Working Hard in Annapolis...

Hello everyone!

I have been working long and hard hours here in Annapolis for over a month now, and but it is certainly very gratifying to do the people’s business. I have been assigned to the Environmental Matters Committee, where I am one of twenty-three members. In committee we debate legislation concerning air quality, protection of the Chesapeake Bay, global warning, agriculture issues, and many more topics, some of which people would not normally associate with the environment. Some of these issues include housing legislation and overseeing MVA policy. You can find more information about the Environmental Matters Committee by clicking here.

Although I am working hard as a member of the Environmental Matters Committee, my duties do not prevent me from working on good, progressive legislation outside of the committee. I am currently working diligently on a wide variety of crucial issues to District 39, Montgomery County, and the entire state of Maryland. I have championed an innovative consumer protection bill, (House Bill 739, click here to read it) which has garnered the support of over half the House as co-sponsors. I call it "The Customer Loyalty Card Act of 2007".

You can see the full table of legislation that I have sponsored by clicking here.

As the 2007 session advances, I will have many important and difficult decisions to make as a Delegate from District 39. I am greatly excited to work hard during increasingly intense committee hearings, meetings with constituents and groups, and spirited debate on the floor of the House of Delegates.

I will keep you up-to-date on my efforts in Annapolis over the coming weeks. Please check back here often.

Take care!
-Saqib

Dinner with the Governor

Governor Martin O'Malley and his wife Judge Katie O'Malley had invited our family over to their mansion for dinner tonight. So, of course, we were honored to attend.

Our families shared an intimate meal together as the Governor explained to us the history of his residence -- officially known as Government House. You can read more about it by clicking here. The Governor remarked that given his proletariat background he felt odd living in such lavish surroundings. We also met Maryland's two young "First Sons": William and Jack. And the O'Malley's were introduced to our daughter Sofia who they seemed to take an instant liking to (but really, who wouldn't?!?).

All in all, it was a delighful evening spent with very warm and gracious hosts.

- Saqib

Swearing-In Day

First and foremost, I want to thank all of my supporters who made my primary and general election victories possible: You all have truly given me the opportunity of a lifetime! I am so proud to represent the good people of District 39 and all Marylanders.

Today I was officially sworn in as a member of the Maryland House of Delegates in the historic state Capital building in Annapolis. It was a momentous ceremony filled with pagentry that I will remember vividly for the rest of my life. Just being in the historic Capital building where Thomas Jefferson and George Washington once walked the halls is hugely humbling.

Before the ceremony, my family and I were honored at the rostrum of the House Chamber by the Speaker of the House - Michael Busch. From left to right in the picture above: Speaker Busch, my wife Susan, my Daughter Sofia, my mother Samina, my father Haider, my nephew Eesa and my sister Sarah.

Soon afterwards I was officially sworn in:


After the ceremony, I gave a number of television and newspaper interviewers to reporters who were interested in the success of our underdog campaign. Later in the day we celebrated with family and friends at an Irish Restaurant named Galway Bay - a regular stop for many lawmakers. We had a blast, and I was almost overwhelmed by the cheer of day.

But now its time to get down to work for the people who sent me here!

-Saqib

PS.

I can be reached in Annapolis at:
Delegate Saqib Ali
Lowe House Office Building, #224-B
6 Bladen Road
Annapolis, MD 21401

Email: delegate@SaqibAli.org
Telephone: (301) 591-1612
Fax: (301) 858-3077


Update (1/11/2007): You can read the Baltimore Sun's great coverage of me on opening day by clicking here.

Washington Post Endorses Saqib Ali

This morning the Washington Post endorsed Saqib Ali for Delegate in District 39! Recognizing Saqib and his progressive, grassroots campaign as the best choice for one of our district's seats in Annapolis, the Post said:

DISTRICT 39.... Political newcomer Saqib Ali has shown good command of issues and would bring new vigor to this district's delegation.

Nice! When you're the underdog in an uphill battle against entrenched incumbents you don't expect the establishment to necessarily back you, but we certainly appreciate the Post's endorsement! However, we also know that the only endorsement that really counts is your vote on Tuesday!

Please, go to the polls with the rest of us on September 12 and cast your vote for my husband, Saqib Ali, in District 39! Thank you so very much for your support!

:) Susan :)

Now That Was a Parade!

Ali for Delegate volunteers turned out in force yesterday to march with Saqib in the Gaithersburg Labor Day Parade. And when I say turned out in force, I mean it! 63 volunteers participated in the parade! 63!

The Ali "A-Team" absolutely dwarfed our opponents' contingents (they were all in the low single digits). I think we even outnumbered Governor Ehrlich's group (though he's a Republican, so....)

There were many Ali for Delegate supporters in the crowd as well, some of whom reported to us afterward that we were not only the largest candidate group, but also the most diverse and the most enthusiastic! The volunteers marching with Saqib shouted "Who you gonna vote for? Saqib Ali!" in unison, at the top of their lungs, the whole length of the parade route (all two miles of it). They were also busy handing out campaign literature, stickers and popsicles as they marched.

In a testament to the dedication and grassroots nature of Saqib's campaign, most of our volunteers showed up at 9:45am, even though the parade didn't start until 1:00pm, and stayed until we finished midafternoon. They basically spent their holiday in support of Saqib Ali for Delegate! They were all beat, and hoarse, by the end of the parade, but spirits were high!

Today marks the final week before the primary election on September 12, and here at the Ali for Delegate HQ the excitement and determination are building! We're pulling out all the stops, we have volunteers hitting the streets every day with Saqib (and on their own), we have literature drops throughout District 39, we have people manning the phones and making calls to voters, we're putting together precinct teams for election day, and on and on....

But we still need your help! This is true grassroots politics at its best, and we can't do it without you! If you can spare a few hours in the next week, or on election day, give us a call (301-591-1612) or send us an email (info@saqibali.org). You all are an inspiration to Saqib, and me! Thanks so much!

:) Susan :)

Testimonial Thursday:Vince Stanford

Saqib Ali knocked on our door last weekend to introduce himself as a candidate for State Delegate. His campaign is financed by individual voters; and his stands on the issues show he takes people seriously. He is the only candidate who took time to ask us what we thought on the issues. He discussed suburban growth, misuse of Eminent Domain, Bob Ehrlich's state-sponsored gambling initiative, health care, education, crime, civil rights and civil liberties, local issues, and electricity deregulation. A pretty full plate of issues think about. I am glad someone wants to deal with all that.

In contrast, many Delegates hold the interests of Political Action Committees, well heeled corporations, and lobbies, above the voters, the environment, or the children who are our future. For example, deregulation of electricity monopolies allowed them to nearly double rates claiming the "world energy markets" force them do it. Our Delegates in 1999 justified their votes for this with a fantasy that perfect free market competition guided by the "invisible hand" would drive rates down. But, the power companies have a natural monopoly on a vital commodity, our electricity. We have no real choice but to buy from them. The publicly owned utilities long gave investors a stable and fair return to provide power at a fair cost. The new system benefits the power company profits at the increasing expense of consumers.

The lawmakers in 1999 tried to avoid responsibility for their actions by postponing rate increases. Didn't deliberately hiding the effects until later, show they knew what would happen? Of course, the perfect free-market competition never emerged from power deregulation, but other phenomena did. For example, the California deregulation debacle, in which Enron sent California-generated electricity to Nevada and returned it at a tenfold rate increase, shows the avarice of some utility executives. They will exploit and abuse every opportunity relieve the public of its hard-earned money. Regulation is the rational response to this unfortunate reality of human nature.

As to the "world markets" dominated by OPEC oil, Maryland plants generate fifty-nine percent of power from coal, twenty-five percent from nuclear plants, and three percent from hydroelectric dams. Coal prices have not exploded like OPEC oil, neither has uranium or hydroelectric.

Clearly a balance with reasonable returns for investors, and reasonable rates for consumers is needed. Having Delegates like Saqib, who actually care about the people of Maryland, crafting such policies can help restore much needed balance. Perhaps we should also plan investments in renewable sources, like wind, biomass, solar, or additional hydroelectric that would reduce the pollution and cost levels compared to the aging plants we now have.

In sum, I found Saqib Ali to be a well thought out, reasonable, and hard working guy who is conducting a campaign of ideas based on a real concern for the people of Maryland. He will definitely get my vote.

- Vince Stanford

Saqib on Crablaw

Last week Bruce Godfrey posted an interview with Saqib on Crablaw's Maryland Weekly. Check it out if you get a chance.

:) Susan :)

Testimonial Thursday:Ellen Lanahan - Montgomery Village

I first met Saqib Ali when he knocked on my door on September 12th last year. Although he impressed me right away, little did I realize that I would be back working full-time to help him win the Democratic Primary on September 12 this year.

When the earnest young man who said he was running for the House of Delegates from District 39 came to my door, I said to him, "OK, what are your positions, and what can you do for me as a senior citizen voter?" I considered myself to be fairly aware of political issues although it had been years since I had played an activist role. So we discussed education, roads, healthcare, living wage, affordable housing and other issues. I found myself agreeing with his positions on every issue. So I signed up for Saqib's volunteer list. I began by driving him as he knocked doors in other precincts. Between Democratic households, we discussed the local political issues further. I became increasingly impressed with Saqib's intelligence, his grasp of the issues and his charismatic presence. Soon I was attending fundraisers and calling potential voters.

In February, Saqib asked me to assist him by managing his campaign. He had been campaigning for 5 months already while holding down a full-time job as a senior software engineer and he needed help. Since then it has been a whirlwind of activity--fundraisers, house parties, managing volunteers, editing his position papers and responses to the dozens of questionnaires a candidate receives regarding his position on anything and everything. What a wonderful way to feel fully engaged during retirement.

All through the process, Saqib has been wonderful to work with and for. He is thoughtful, thankful, and gracious. When I joined the campaign, I didn't realize that I was becoming part of a warm, loving extended family. I shared their joy with the birth of Sofia on May 2nd. I have eaten his mom's wonderful cooking, worked with his sister Sarah and played with her son Eesa. Through it all, I have admired his father's solid support and steadying influence.

Saqib has clear ideas about what he thinks and how he wants the campaign to go, but he listens to community members, responds to phone calls and emails, and listens to advice from this senior citizen, his friends and campaign volunteers, and regular folks who just call him up. I know that the way he has built a smooth functioning campaign team will be the way he will work with others to represent our best interests in Annapolis. What more could we want? LET'S GO OUT AND ELECT SAQIB ALI FOR DELEGATE FROM DISTRICT 39!!

Testimonial Thursday:Martin Brooks - Montgomery Village

On the afternoon of June 25, Saqib Ali came to my home to introduce himself and his candidacy for the Maryland House of Delegates. He sat and visited with my neighbors and me for over an hour, learning about our lives, our concerns, and our hopes for this great state. Not only is he personable and genuinely friendly, he is informed and troubled about Montgomery Village issues such as the problems of increased development without appropriate infrastructure and the impact such development would have on our beautiful environment. He also expressed his desire to support the Montgomery County public education system and articulated his passion about the need for peace to be practiced by the United States. As a man with a wealth of experience and history throughout our district, I feel confident in his ability both to represent me and, most importantly, to listen to my questions and ideas.

Of the four candidates for the District 39 Delegates, Saqib Ali is the only one who has taken the time to contact me through mail, to call me, and to drive to my home to meet me. I am impressed with his energy and his ability to relate to people of diverse backgrounds. After studying his stances on the issues through his web site and in my conversations with him, I am convinced that he is the best candidate to represent District 39 in the House of Delegates. I urge all residents of this area to support Saqib Ali in his campaign. When elected, he will provide genuine and intelligent representation to our district as well as solid leadership for all of Maryland.

My wife and I moved from Silver Spring to Montgomery Village last year. Although relatively new to Maryland, I have lived in the DC area for 5 years, after living in New York for most of my life. After being honorably discharged from the DC National Guard in 2004, I have been serving Chevy Chase Presbyterian Church as its youth minister and am also currently a part-time graduate student at Wesley Theological Seminary. Most of time outside of my work and schooling goes to support a non-profit diversity training organization known as The Arch, that I co-founded in 1998.

Although I have not been overly involved in politics in the last several years, I bear immense respect for our system of government and many of our public servants. I am pleased to offer my thoughts about Saqib Ali's candidacy for the Maryland House of Delegates.

- Martin Brooks

[Editor's Note: Saqib was door-knocking in a Montgomery Village precinct when he met Mr. Brooks. Not only did Saqib get a chance to talk with him and his wife Lu Lan, but Brooks invited a bunch of his neighbors over as well! Instant campaign house party! As you can see in the above photo, they all wanted Ali for Delegate bumperstickers! Nice!]

Bigoted Protestor Strikes Ali Campaign HQ

Friends and Supporters,

I am writing to tell you about a disturbing event that occurred at the campaign's Gaithersburg headquarters yesterday. As usual, the office was buzzing with activity; volunteers were working away, distributing literature, assembling mailings, making phone calls, etc. I stepped out briefly to retrieve something from my car. What I saw shocked and horrified me. I was faced with a protester seated on a lawn chair. He displayed a sign reading "Islam Sucks" and he was wearing an equally offensive t-shirt. The protester repeatedly made anti-Muslim slurs and an obscene gesture.

The protestor identified himself as Tim Truett. Our further investigation revealed that Mr. Truett is a neighbor of mine in Montgomery Village. I notified the Montgomery County Police Department. A police officer arrived on the scene after Mr. Truett's hasty departure. The police officer took a police report (#R06-044772) and served Mr. Truett with a trespass notification.

While I fully support Mr. Truett's right to voice his opinions, I was baffled, perplexed and scared that in this day and age anyone could still hate anyone else on such a base level simply for their faith.

My grandparents came to this country to escape religious persecution. As Jews leaving Tsarist Russia, they believed that everyone should be judged on their merits. They instilled this belief in my parents and in turn my parents taught me and my siblings to look at each individual, not to judge anyone by the color of their skin or the religion they practice. Saqib's campaign stands for civil rights for all. I believe that Mr. Truett, and persons like him, want to limit all of our civil rights; That is what we are up against in this campaign and that is why I am asking for your help in Saqib's campaign for Delegate.

This incident is especially troubling since Saqib has worked tirelessly to bring people from different faith communities together. In particular, he co-organized the Muslim-Jewish Day of Friendship. You can read an article about that effort by clicking here.

Here is how you can support the campaign and send a message to Mr. Truett that his bigotry is totally unnacceptable:

• Volunteer your time with the campaign; Come to our office in Gaithersburg and make phone calls, put a bumper sticker on your car, distribute fliers or work the polls on September 12^th. You can sign up to volunteer by clicking here.

• If you cannot do any of the above, then please make a financial contribution of $25, $50, $100 or more so that we can hire someone in your place. Instructions for contributing can be found by clicking here.

Thank you -

Sally Hand

Volunteer Coordinator
Ali For Delegate

PS

Major news organizations are now covering this story:

• You can watch the WUSA Channel 9 interview Saqib gave here.
  
• You can the Washington Post article by clicking here.

Honk if You're for Ali!

Yes, that was Saqib you saw this morning on the way to work! My tireless husband and some of his hard-working volunteers headed out to the corner of Montgomery Village and Russell Avenues in Gaithersburg to wave and greet everyone as they drove by the fire station.

With just a month to go until the election, you'll be seeing us all over the district - just like all those Ali for Delegate yard signs that have been popping up everywhere! If you would like to help us do some "visibility" (as they say in campaign parlance) like this morning, or would like to volunteer with Saqib's campaign in some other way, just send us an email or give us a call (301-591-1612). We've got a great, fun team of volunteers and we'd love to have you join us.

And, if you happen to catch Saqib or some of his volunteers out there waving, don't forget to wave back and honk if you're for Ali too!

:) Susan :)

Testimonial Thursday:Rick Gibbs - North Potomac

I met Saqib Ali a few weeks ago after receiving literature about his candidacy in the mail. Intrigued by the idea of a candidate who offered to bring a fresh perspective to the state's political arena, I quickly began researching Saqib's stance on various issues, a process which left me quite impressed not only with Saqib the politician, but also with Saqib the person.

This led me to set up a meeting with Saqib: a meeting that revealed Saqib had not only the intelligence and foresight to lead our district, but that he also possessed the charisma and motivation to accomplish his goals.

Having worked in the House of Delegates in the past, I am aware of how much influence corporations and special interest groups have on our legislature. As a student of history, I also understand that this is not how our government was ever intended to function – on any level. What impressed me the most about Saqib was his pledge, a pledge he has carried out on, to not accept a single penny from a large corporation or special interest group.

While most other politicians talk about working hard, Saqib has already demonstrated his willingness to do just this. Campaigning without large endorsements from big business is a nearly impossible task. The fact that Saqib has done this proves his campaign is not merely about winning, it is about winning in a way that will give him the freedom to truly represent his constituents, and not just those organizations who have money.

- Rick Gibbs

[Editor's Note: Mr. Gibbs is a resident of North Potomac.]

Testimonial Thursday:Diego Hernandez - Montgomery Village

Saqib Ali would provide a much-needed infusion of innovative ideas into the Maryland legislature. As a Montgomery Village resident and a product of Montgomery County Public Schools, I know first-hand about the concerns of area residents. I have since moved from the area, but I remain in contact with friends and family who live in Montgomery Village and visit several times a year.

When we sat down to enjoy some saltwater taffy and tea in my family's kitchen, it was like I was sitting down with a close friend. Saqib is a friendly, articulate man. He listened carefully to my questions and provided answers that spoke to his high degree of familiarity with issues like transportation, education and development. I was particularly impressed with his positions on issues personally important to me, like immigration law enforcement, the Inter-County Connector and affordable housing. I suggest everyone peruse the Issues section of his website, where he outlines his positions on different issues in detail. Unlike many politicians, Saqib doesn't speak in generalizations that make it hard to figure him out. He comes out clearly with a position that makes sense.

This was a great place to grow up and live. Let's keep it that way by electing Saqib Ali. Saqib Ali will work together with others in the Maryland legislature to protect our interests and move us forward.

- Diego Hernandez

[Editor's Note: Mr. Hernandez is a teacher of English as a second language. Though he now lives out of the area, he continues to have family ties to Montgomery Village and District 39. If his good looks seem familiar, you're not mistaken. His sister Andrea posted a testimonial back in April!]

Testimonial Thursday:Suzanne Dickson - North Potomac

I had the opportunity to meet Saqib in the fall of 2004 in the parking lot of Darnestown Safeway. My husband and I had recently relocated to the city from San Diego, CA so I was unfamiliar with the area. When I finished my grocery shopping that evening, I was dismayed to learn that my car wouldn't start-and my cell phone was dead! I was six months pregnant in a new city and my husband wasn't home. I saw this nice man getting into his car so I approached him to borrow his cell phone to call AAA. Saqib was that man. I certainly did not expect him to make sure that I got home ok or wait around to see if I had a ride. However, Saqib was so gracious and thoughtful that he loaned me his cell phone and then offered to drive me back to my house. (We both had democratic stickers on our cars so I knew that he must be ok!). During our drive home, he learned that I was new to the city and interested in connecting with other groups. He offered several suggestions on how I could connect with the Democratic Community here in Maryland. We exchanged emails. I was so impressed to receive an email the next day with the names and website links that he had promised me. Within a few months, I had the opportunity to meet his wife Susan when we both worked the Democratic booth for the presidential election.

From my experiences with Saqib and his wife, it has been clear to me that they embrace a passion and commitment for the issues facing our community and our world. After my first meeting with Saqib, I was so impressed with his knowledge, background and enthusiasm for politics that I went on his website and have followed his journey to this point. I am very confident that Saqib has what we need for District 39. As a mother of a toddler and a baby on the way, I am particularly interested in issues involving education. The educational system in California is awful with funds being cut, classroom size being exceedingly large and outdated curriculum. I look to vote for people who can impact Maryland education so my children won’t experience those issues. I was pleased to learn of Saqib’s position on education and that he was backed by the Montgomery County Education Association. He certainly has my support. I only hope that I can do more for his campaign and to promote a win in September.

- Suzanne Dickson

[Editor's Note: Ms. Dickson is pictured above with her husband Dave and daughter Ava. They live in North Potomac.]