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February 28th, 2025
Dear Neighbor,
MD Standing Strong Against Federal Chaos
As Federal support for America's most vulnerable continues to be threatened, Chair Delegate Emily Shetty, myself, and my fellow members of the Health and Social Services Subcommittee of Appropriations heard the Medical Care Programs Administration budget this week. This Administration, a part of Maryland's Department of Health, is responsible for administering Medicaid for Marylanders.
We are doing everything we can to determine what contingency plans Maryland can have in place to protect vital services that Marylanders rely on. This week's hearing outlined where we are, and furthered the conversation on how Maryland can protect itself from further Federal chaos.
To watch, click here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e9MIpnP4-qE
I’ve compiled a list of resources below that have been recently shared with my office to aid individuals and families impacted by the recent federal administration changes and the ongoing uncertainty. As we navigate this difficult time together, always feel free to reach out to me if there is anything my office may be able to assist you with at Dana.Jones@house.state.md.us or 410-841-3211.
Resources from the Maryland Department of Labor:
The Maryland Department of Labor has compiled a list of resources for workers directly impacted by the federal government transition, including employees of the federal government and federal government contractors. See below for all the helpful resources they offer:
Resource page providing information about unemployment insurance benefits and reemployment support, including FAQs and application portals. Click here.
Federal civilian employees who become unemployed due to no fault of their own can apply for Unemployment Compensation for Federal Employees (UCFE). Click here for Unemployment Insurance FAQs for Federal Workers.
Other workers impacted by federal actions—such as employees who worked for a private sector employer that contracted with the federal government—may be eligible to apply for regular unemployment insurance. Click here for regular unemployment insurance overview.
Direct links to apply for UI benefits in Maryland; Washington, DC; and Virginia.
To apply for unemployment, workers can file online or call 667-207-6520 (Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.). Federal workers should select option #9.
A virtual workshop designed specifically for former federal employees, federal contractors, and other workers impacted by federal government transition is available on Wednesdays, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. See workshop details (información del taller en español) and email FedWorker.Transition@maryland.gov to sign up.
The MD Department of labor offers a huge range of career guidance and workshops like resume workshops, job search strategies, and mock interviews. To explore all the resources available click here for the a resource guide (guía de recursos en español).
Resources from the Office of Governor Wes Moore:
Governor Moore has launched a centralized hub for programs and resources to support Maryland’s federal employees and contractors impacted by federal workforce layoffs, firings, and changes to federal funding. Click here to find Governor Moore’s Resources for Impacted Workers page which also provides legal resources, information on federal employment rules and regulations, and county programs and resources.
Resources from the Office of Congresswoman Sarah Elfreth:
In the wake of the many changes Americans are facing today, my colleague and friend Congresswoman Sarah Elfreth has put together a list of resources for Marylanders that have been impacted by the Trump Administration and rapidly developing Federal policies. An extensive list of resources for Federal workers, immigrant individuals and families, and LGBTQ+ community members can be found by clicking here.
2025-2026 Scholarship Opportunity Alert! 🎓
I am now accepting applications for my annual legislative scholarship! If you are a committed student living in District 30A and plan on attending a Maryland college or university, visit danajones30a.com/apply to apply and see all qualifications. Applications must be submitted by April 1st, 2025 and include a completed FAFSA!
Please remember that late or incomplete submissions will not be accepted. Reapplying? You're eligible too!
If you have any questions, reach out to me here: Dana.Jones@house.state.md.us.
Night of the Living “Zombie Mortgages” 🧟♀️🏡
Last week, I was proud to introduce HB 769 in the Environment and Transportation Committee, a bill that will protect Maryland homeowners facing resurfacing, predatory 2nd-lien mortgages nicknamed "Zombie Mortgages."
These loans are previously discharged, or charged off debts, largely a product of the 2008 housing crisis, that the original borrower is no longer receiving statements for. As a result, many do not know that they are still responsible for these debts. Out-of-state private equity and bad debt buyers have purchased these debts, and are now attempting to take advantage of increased home-values by filing surprise foreclosure proceedings.
To learn more about this problem, please read this recent NPR article on the problem in Maryland: https://www.npr.org/.../zombie-second-mortgages...
It is vital to ensure Maryland families and individuals are given ample notice prior to receiving foreclosure notices, especially as communities of color and low-to-moderate income households are disproportionately impacted. As housing and economic security are increasingly at risk, and as Federal consumer protections are eroded, it is as important as ever that Maryland stands to protect these homeowners.
Having spent the last year writing this bill with my brilliant staff, I am proud to bring this critical issue before the General Assembly. A special thank you to all the amazing, knowledgeable individuals who testified with me yesterday and for the overwhelming support from Economic Action Maryland, Community Development Network of Maryland, Pro Bono Resource Center of Maryland, and many others! I look forward to sharing more information with you as this legislation progresses.
2025 Women’s Caucus Legislative Priorities
As President of the Women Legislators of Maryland, last week I spoke at our annual press release to share our 2025 legislative priorities. This year, the hardworking members of the Women’s Caucus aim to uplift women through Maryland’s healthcare systems, childcare accessibility, and rehabilitation services for incarcerated individuals.
This year’s legislative priorities reflect our commitment to addressing the real challenges women face across our state. Through these initiatives, the Women’s Caucus is working to build a stronger, more equitable Maryland where women, families, and communities can thrive.
This week, I was the thankful for the invitation to speak at the Montgomery County Women's Democratic Club's Annapolis Day. We spent the morning talking about Women's Caucus goals for the year; protecting women’s healthcare, childcare accessibility, and the women's prerelease center.
I also had the chance to discuss my legislative proposals for this session, and share about the work being done to protect Maryland's most vulnerable communities in my role as Vice-Chair of the Health and Social Services Subcommittee of Appropriations.
Always a joy to be surrounded by hardworking, and extremely well organized, people in Maryland, thank you again to the Montgomery County Women's Democratic Club!
Maryland Library Day 📚❤️
I recently celebrated one of my favorite days of session, Maryland Library Day! I was delighted to welcome members from the Maryland Library Association and present them with a resolution on behalf of the entire House of Delegates. Their work is invaluable to Maryland, from providing internet services, to gun locks, and of course providing a space for communities to congregate, read, and learn. I’m always proud to support our libraries and I can't wait to see this amazing group in Annapolis again!
LGBTQIA+ Night in Annapolis 🏳️🌈
I invite you to join the LGBTQIA+ Night in Annapolis at Lawyer’s Mall to rally in support of LGBTQIA+ Marylanders!
This is a great opportunity to meet with legislators, community members, allies, and LGBTQIA+ organizations. The rally starts 5:00 PM on Monday March 3rd, 2025 and please use this link to RSVP: https://bit.ly/LGBTQAnnapolis
Signs showing support are encouraged but cannot be brought inside the legislative buildings.
Stellar Students from Bates Middle School!
Last week, I was thrilled to give a shout-out from the House floor and speak to some spectacular students from Anne Arundel County Public Schools (AACPS) Wiley H. Bates Middle School Student Council! These scholars attended floor proceedings and explored our State Capitol, experiencing our government in action!
Such a joy to share a glimpse into the legislative process, Dylan Behler for Delegate and I can't wait to see them continue on to become amazing leaders!
☘️ Shamrock the Dock ☘️
Every year, the City of Annapolis comes alive to celebrate St. Patrick's Day! I invite you to join me for these amazing activities.
💚 12th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade:
Hosted by Naptown Events, join March 9th for the Annapolis St. Patrick’s Day Parade starting at 1:00 PM on West Street! $20 parking is available at Navy-Marine Corps Stadium, and shuttles to the Westgate Circle.
To get up-to-date event-specific information on traffic, parking restrictions, and road closures, text PADDY2025 to 38276. For more information on the parade click here.
💚 Shamrock the Dock Concert:
Join on March 8th for a music and cultural festival featuring the bands We’re Not Handsome, Galway Guild, and Dublin5.
Food and drink vendors will be available! For more information click here.
💚 10th Annual St. Patrick’s Hooley:
March 8th celebrate the St Patty’s Day official kick-off party and enjoy great live Irish music, and traditional, delicious Irish fare with family and friends! To purchase tickets and learn more click here.
For more information and weekend traffic changes click here for the City of Annapolis press release.
Introducing IRS Direct File
Get ready for tax season! The Office of the Comptroller of Maryland has announced that Maryland will join the IRS’s Direct File program so eligible Maryland taxpayers can file their federal tax returns for free this year. Be sure to check out this free, mobile friendly, and secure resource!
For more information and to check your eligibility: marylandtaxes.gov/directfile
AACPL Call for Student Involvement!
Anne Arundel Public Library is now accepting applications for a Student Representative to join the Library Board of Trustees! This position will give valuable real-world experience serving on a governing body and is a great resume builder. Responsibilities in this role will be giving student’s insight and feedback on library resources, programs, and materials so that our local libraries can better serve young adults. 📖
Requirements:
Must be a rising junior or senior.
Must live in Anne Arundel County.
Must attend an Anne Arundel County Public School, private school or be homeschooled.
Must be available to serve a one-year term beginning in August 2025 and ending in June 2026.
Applications accepted from February 10th to March 7th, and for full the application information visit https://www.aacpl.net/studentmember
You can follow me on Facebook, Bluesky, X, and Instagram to learn about volunteer opportunities, community resources, legislative updates and much more. If you have any questions or concerns, you can always contact my office by email at Dana.Jones@house.state.md.us or by phone at 410-841-3211.
Stay safe and healthy,
Delegate Dana Jones
District 30A, Annapolis & Anne Arundel County