2026 Legislative Session Begins

asherlotke5
2 days ago
2 min read

Maryland’s 90-day legislative session began last Wednesday. With the swearing-in of Speaker Joseline Pena-Melnyk and other significant changes to the House leadership, I am looking forward to all the ways we will improve the lives of Marylanders.

Advocating for Clean Energy

I got straight to work on Opening Day by speaking at a rally with fellow legislators and advocates to build support for my Affordable Solar Act.

Solar energy is the fastest and most cost-effective way to build new energy generation. This bill will create—with no additional cost to rate-payers— incentives to bring more solar power on line and to allow "balcony solar," small, portable solar systems individuals can easily install to generate power.

Watch footage from the entire rally here and see press coverage from:

My Affordable Solar Act is just one of several pieces of legislation I have introduced related to climate and energy policy. You can read more about these bills here.

Protecting Against Federal Overreach

Last week I also introduced my No Kings Act to give Maryland residents the right to sue federal officials who violate their constitutional rights. As reported on MS NOW, you can expect to see more states adopt similar legislation to hold ICE and the Department of Justice accountable for their brutality and lawlessness in our communities.

Engaging in Economic and Political Non-Cooperation

Targeted boycotts show the power of the collective and change the calculus of corporate sell-outs. One recent example is Avelo Airline’s decision to stop working with ICE on deportation flights.

Walking the Walk and Talking the Talk: This Sunday!

We make the path by walking. Join me and your neighbors at my first “Walk and Talk” of the new year on Sunday, January 25th, from 2:00–4:00 pm, in the White Oak area. Getting to know your neighbors and building community is an important step in creating societal change. Get details and R.S.V.P. here.

Need Help on a State Issue?

If you need help with a state issue, please contact my office at Lorig.Charkoudian@house.maryland.gov or leave us a message at (410)-841-3423.

Onward,

Lorig Charkoudian