Dear Friend:
I am inspired every day to be involved with efforts making a powerful difference in people’s lives, in our communities, and for the planet. Here are just two recent highlights:
Unemployment Insurance Victory:
Earlier this month, a judge blocked Governor Hogan’s reckless plan to cut federal unemployment benefits prematurely. In his ruling, the judge specifically cited legislation I introduced in the most recent session requiring the state to do everything possible to maximize unemployment benefits available to Maryland residents.
I am thrilled that legislation I wrote and fought for will allow tens of thousands of unemployed Marylanders to continue to receive a financial lifeline as they transition back to work and the state won’t be turning down $1.5 billion from the federal government to help fuel our economic recovery.
Obviously, much more work remains to be done to make sure our troubled unemployment insurance program more effectively serves the needs of Marylanders. As a member of the Economic Matters Committee, I pledge to continue to advocate for those reforms and on behalf of all my constituents who continue to struggle to receive their benefits.
Power in the Park:
Knowledge is power! Did you know Maryland offers some of the best home energy programs in the country? These programs save real money every month. Come out on Thursday, August 5th, 6 – 8pm to learn how to lower your utility bills, sign up for community solar and much more. I am organizing this event, along with a number of local organizations to make sure residents know about these programs and to learn more about how I can improve these programs through future legislation. Please feel free to share the flyer below to help promote the event!
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. However, please note my office will not be staffed five days per week until the next Session.
Onward,
Lorig Charkoudian