A Legislative Session With High Stakes

On January 10, I had the honor of being sworn in as the new delegate for District 31 in the Maryland General Assembly. The Anne Arundel County Republican Central Committee selected me to fill the seat vacated by Delegate Rachel Muñoz — the very seat I ran for in 2022, but I did not advance past the primary. Despite that setback, I remained actively engaged in our community, championing mental health access, educational excellence, and support for small-business owners, all while staying true to my Christian, conservative principles.

Now, as your state delegate, I am even more committed to addressing the specific needs of our district while supporting and introducing effective legislation that benefits hardworking families across Maryland.

The 90-day legislative session began on January 8, and among the many priorities, the most pressing issue is the $3 billion budget deficit. Unfortunately, the governor’s proposed solution includes a laundry list of tax hikes and hidden fees that will burden everyday families and small-business owners. Some of these include:

• Eliminating itemized deductions, impacting homeowners and retirees
  
  
• Increasing online delivery fees
  
  
• Doubling car inspection fees from $14 to $30
  
  
• Raising the cannabis tax from 9% to 15%
  
  
• Adding new taxes on sports gambling

While you may not think some of these apply to you, rest assured, their far-reaching impact will be felt by all. The Democrat majority in the General Assembly, along with Governor Wes Moore, is looking to balance the budget on the backs of hardworking citizens. Keep in mind, when Governor Moore took office, he inherited a budget surplus from Governor Larry Hogan but squandered it through reckless spending.

This will be a challenging and fast-paced session, but I have hit the ground running. I ask for your prayers and support as I advocate for all District 31 residents, regardless of political affiliation.

You are invited to join me for a District 31 meet and greet on March 3 from 6:00pm–7:30pm at the Lowe House Office Building, room 180, located at 6 Bladen Street in Annapolis. To RSVP or for assistance, contact my office at 410-841-3510 or email me at latoya.nkongolo@house.state.md.us. My chief of staff, Julie Butler, and I are happy to assist you.