I saw “Lincoln” again last night. This time, with floor debate on repeal of Maryland’s death penalty days away. Without doubt, the most historic vote I will cast. This time, with my niece, Rachel. Afterwards, she asked me to explain how the Republican Party had changed from the party opposed to slavery to its present-day …more >
When a newborn displays the effects of prenatal drug use or fetal alcohol disorder, should health care providers be required to inform the government? House Bill 245, introduced by the Department of Human Resources says yes. I awaited the next question. “Shouldn’t we determine if the mother is an abuser when the child is still …more >
What do Governor Martin O’Malley, Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake, and former U.N. Ambassador John Bolton have in common? They grew up in Maryland and went to college out of state. That would make them ineligible for the state program that gives a stipend to thirty summer interns with non-profits or state or local government. I referenced …more >
“They treat you like crap in the ER,” Carl Edgell said. “When you’re in the psych ward, you’re at ease.” Mr. Edgell has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Early this morning, I read about him in the Baltimore Sun. The article described the impact of an on-line registry of psychiatric …more >
The legislative process is about policy decisions. What should be encouraged or required? Or prohibited? If so, what is the appropriate penalty? The legislative process is also about relationships and courtesies. Your opponent today could be your ally tomorrow. If you do unto others, they will remember and do unto you. I have introduced House …more >
From the front page of today’s NYTimes ALBANY — Bucking a trend in which states have been seeking to restrict abortion, Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo is putting the finishing touches on legislation that would guarantee women in New York the right to late-term abortions when their health is in danger or the fetus is …more >
After session yesterday, I asked a subcommittee chair if any action had been taken on one of my bills. She said, “No.” I asked if I should have an amendment drafted. She said, “Yes.” I walked to the State House basement and spoke to a drafter in the Amendment Room. Walking back to my office, …more >
I also tell my students not to read their testimony but to speak from their head and heart instead. Today, my committee heard the bill to repeal the death penalty. Below is my written testimony. I did not read it but did relate most of it. This is a conscience vote. When, if ever, …more >
When you draft a bill or amendments, it’s not the same as writing a legal brief that a judge will scrutinize. Your words should clearly convey the intent of the legislature. However, there are frequently instances when certain words may not be legally necessary but are essential from a legislative or political standpoint. I teach …more >
“At no time does the caseworker say, ‘Tell me about the guy you’re pregnant by,’ other than to ask whether he’s paying child support.” The witness testifying next to me was Joe Jones, founder of the Center for Urban Families. I was in the audience at Johns Hopkins in the fall of 2011 when …more >
