Dear Friends,

Last week the people of Maryland sent a clear message to Annapolis and to Washington that they are ready for change and fresh thinking. I want to thank you for re-electing me to the state Senate, for electing Ben Cardin to be our next U.S. Senator and for electing Martin O’Malley to lead our state as our next Governor.

I also want to thank you for overwhelmingly passing the constitutional amendment protecting parkland. Last year I was outraged when Governor Ehrlich tried to sell state parklands out from under us. This amendment will ensure that no Governor will be able to sell state park lands without the approval of the General Assembly.

As the 2007 legislative session approaches, I am putting together my legislative agenda. One of my priorities is to increase funding for K-12 education by ensuring that the Thorton school funding program, which distributes state aid based on the jurisdiction’s expenses, is fully funded. And with Governor Ehrlich’s veto no longer a threat, I hope to restore funding and limit tuition increases for the University of Maryland.

I am also planning to introduce the Maryland Clean Car Act. I hope our State will join neighbors like New Jersey, Pennsylvania and New York in adopting California’s vehicle emission standards. The measure will help reduce smog and emissions of toxic chemicals and greenhouse gases. It promises benefits to the health of Marylanders and to the Chesapeake Bay as well.

With a new General Assembly and a Governor who is ready to lead, I know that 2007 will be a great year for the state of Maryland.

Again, I thank you for your support.

Sincerely,

Brian E. Frosh

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------