An Absolute Majority

       Asking colleagues to co-sponsor the death penalty repeal bill during today’s floor session reminded me that co-sponsorship is the biggest waste of time in Annapolis – except when it isn’t. 

        In this instance, we can demonstrate that we have absolute majorities in both houses who are willing to sign on to the legislation and, more importantly, to vote for it – if given the chance. 

       We did not have 24 votes for repeal in the Senate two years ago when a weakening floor amendment was adopted.  We do now, after the election last November.  Then and now, we’ve had majority support in the House.

       Not everybody said yes.  One delegate was “not just yet” ready to sign on.  Nonetheless, that was progress from our last conversation on the issue.    

       What do you think I did when several delegates asked me to sponsor their bill right after agreeing to do just that for my legislation?  I said yes too. 

        Under normal circumstances, I might have declined.  However, if someone supports repeal, it’s unlikely that any bill they’re sponsoring is unpalatable to me.

        My focus was a lot narrower on another bill – the chair of the subcommittee that will consider my proposal.  The chair did cosponsor but said, “This doesn’t guarantee I’ll vote for it.”

        But it’s a leg up.

February 4