Words Into Action

It’s been a busy summer.  In Maryland we streamlined government services, protested federal overreach and cruelty, fostered collaboration with state legislators across the country, and continued to show up for our neighbors when tragedy struck and needs are great.

Maryland Benefits:  A Simpler Way to Apply

My staff and I work diligently with constituents to ensure they have access to all eligible safety-net benefits. For years, we saw needless repetition of applications and even loss of benefits because of administrative burdens and paperwork. In 2023, I passed two pieces of legislation HB 323 and HB 111, to establish categorical eligibility. This means that once eligibility is determined for one set of benefits (e.g. SNAP or TANF) an applicant is automatically determined to be eligible for another set of benefits (e.g. energy assistance or Medicaid). 

I am thrilled to see the full implementation of my legislation now with the new MarylandBenefits.gov website recently announced by Governor Moore, which streamlines access to a range of benefits. 

At a time when the Republicans in Congress and the White House are moving to make it harder for vulnerable people in our communities to access benefits under the lie of “efficiency,” Maryland is showing the country how we actually make government more efficient and services more accessible for our community. 

Continuing to Resist

Thanks to the many people who made sure “Good Trouble Lives On” by joining protests around the county and right here in Silver Spring last month.

Public protest is an important part of how we fight back against authoritarianism. 

Let’s keep it up!  Join me on Labor Day, Monday, September 1st,  at 10:00 am, at the Colesville and 495 overpass.  Bring your favorite resistance flags and signs for whatever is most important to you.  Sign up for our local protest here or join elsewhere across the region. 

Federal Harms Registry:  Share Your Story

If you have been harmed by the impacts of the Trump administration, the Maryland Democratic Party wants to hear about it.  Party affiliation does not matter; everyone is encouraged to share.  Submit your written or video story here.  Your story can be a catalyst for change. 

My presentation on clean energy and the electrical grid was well received at the National Caucus of Environmental Legislators.

Protecting Marylanders and Showing the Way for Other States

Another form of resistance is developing policies at the state level that serve as an antidote to the cruelty and destruction at the federal level. While we won’t be able to mitigate all of the damage, my state colleagues and I are working to find ways to keep as many Marylanders on Medicaid and SNAP as possible, protect immigrants, adjust our policies to continue our transition to clean energy, and doubling down on our policies supporting inclusion, equity, and justice. 

This summer, at the conferences of the National Caucus of Environmental Legislators and the National Conference of State Legislators, I had a chance to engage with colleagues from around the country as we brainstormed possibilities and shared ideas. 

Purple Line:  Construction Nightmares and Slow Progress

The construction of the Purple Line has been a nightmare.  Latest example: on the night of July 27th, construction work led to a major water main break flooding two floors of an apartment building in the Long Branch neighborhood.  I was on the scene that night supporting and advocating for residents. I continue to work with the County, Maryland Transit Administration and Purple Line Transit Partners to make sure those who were displaced receive the support they need to rebuild their lives. 

While the whole region will ultimately benefit from this system, the community along the Purple Line—especially in our area—is paying the price for delays and mistakes in the process. I have been and will continue to advocate for the community. 

Despite the many, many setbacks, my strong support for the Purple Line continues.  I believe in public transit and the economic and environmental benefits it brings. I will continue to work with state and local colleagues, agencies, and the community to ensure that the Purple Line brings greater equity and opportunity for all community members. 

Hands-on Community Work and Canvassing in White Oak: This Saturday!

Please consider volunteering with me to distribute food and backpacks this Saturday, August 23, starting at 8:00 a.m. at the Rainbow Community Development Center in White Oak.  See for yourself the needs that exist—and how our community is responding.

Afterwards, you are invited to join my summer interns and me as we continue our community canvassing.  All summer long we have been going door-to-door in neighborhoods throughout District 20 to share resources and invite people to join us for community events I am hosting. This week we will be inviting folks to the White Oak Power in the Park.  Just as importantly, we are talking with neighbors to hear their concerns and hopes for the future.  

Sign up here to volunteer this weekend or for future door-to-door canvassing.

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