Brian Frosh

I'd like to give you a preview of the key issues that the Maryland General Assembly will consider in our 90-day legislative session that began last week. As you probably know, we face another difficult budget year, but we will also consider critically important policy questions in areas such as the environment, energy, foreclosures and public safety.

Budget: As in 2009, the big issue of the year will be the budget. The state faces a $2 billion budget gap that we must close. I believe that the final budget must preserve essential services, make smart investments in the state's future and continue to support Maryland families hurt by the recession.

Judicial Proceedings Committee: The Senate Judicial Proceedings Committee, which I serve as chair, will take up several important issues, including:

• Drunken driving: We will consider legislation that would require an ignition interlock system for convicted drunk drivers. This device requires a driver to blow into a small handheld alcohol sensor unit. The car cannot be started if the driver's blood alcohol content is above a certain level.
• Foreclosure: We will build on work in past sessions and develop ways to mitigate the effects of the foreclosure crisis on Marylanders.
• Public Defenders Board of Trustees: Following a special hearing I called last fall, we will consider legislation to increase the size of the board as a way to diversify its representation and improve its oversight of the state public defender's office.

Environmental and health legislation: I will continue to focus on legislation that will improve the health of Maryland citizens and protect our environment.

• Bisphenol A: I will introduce legislation banning Bisphenol A (BPA) in items used by children under the age of 4. This plastic softener, which is used in products such as baby bottles and sippy cups, is suspected of causing adverse health affects.
• Oyster poaching: One of the biggest threats to restoring the oyster population in the Chesapeake Bay stems from fisherman poaching oysters from areas that are off-limits. I will sponsor legislation that will require poachers to forfeit their licenses.
• Green Buildings: Maryland law requires state buildings to meet the U.S. Green Building Counsel's LEED Silver Standards. I will introduce a bill that expands this requirement to buildings that are constructed either wholly or in part with state funds.

These are just a few of the important issues that the Maryland legislature will consider in the coming months. I will continue to update you on our progress. As always, I greatly appreciate your thoughts on issues facing the General Assembly