Dear Friend:
As summer comes to a close, here are some highlights from my recent activities:
Improving our Food System: The Maryland Food System Resiliency Council, created by my legislation, has begun meeting and putting together our initial action plan. The goal of the Council, which includes several state agencies, non-profit organizations, and advocacy groups, is to address immediate and long term food insecurity in a way that builds a sustainable, equitable, and resilient local food system. I am proud to serve with these committed individuals, and look forward to introducing legislation in January to further these goals.
Protecting Workers from Extreme Heat: As we endure one of the hottest summers on record, we need to continue to not only fight climate change, but to also protect people from its impacts. This article from Pew Stateline, that includes my bill from 2020, highlights state efforts to protect workers from heat stress. The Maryland Occupational Health and Safety agency has begun public hearings to establish the standards required under my bill. You can sign up to testify at those hearings using this link.
Promoting Energy Assistance: In case you missed Power in the Park, you can read about it in this Maryland Matters Article. Our event was such a success, I am now supporting similar events in other parts of the state!
Reaching out to the Community: Thank you to everyone who came out to canvass with us recently. We continue to share resources with neighbors, hear from them about their priorities and concerns, and highlight what I have been working on over the past 3 years. We welcome you to join us for our upcoming canvass on Sunday, September 12, at 1:00 pm. We will gather together for a brief training, break into pairs, and reach out to neighbors. We will wear masks and practice safe social distancing, and we will be exclusively outside. No experience needed; just bring excitement about connecting with fellow community members!
As always, if you or anyone you know needs assistance, please contact my office at lorig.charkoudian@house.state.md.us. You can also leave a message at (410)-841-3423; although please note my office will not be staffed five days per week until the next Session.
Onward,
Lorig