Sixth District Delegate Bob Long released the following article about his legislative agenda for the 2026 Session
Like many of you, I am deeply concerned regarding the current fiscal direction of our state and county.
Between rising energy costs and the out-of-control spending by the Democrats, the majority party has lost touch with the financial reality of everyday residents.
Hardworking families are being asked to tighten their belts, yet our government continues to prioritize expensive projects over the basic infrastructure we actually rely on.
We cannot continue down a path where the cost of living outpaces the quality of life.
My upcoming legislative agenda includes critical bills to enhance public safety in our schools and neighborhoods, as well as essential relief for those affected by the collapse of the Key Bridge.
Additionally, I am proposing measures to make housing more affordable and to shield local families from tax increases resulting from the influx of new data centers in our state.
I will reintroduce my parent accountability bill, which will require a parent to have their child seek counseling when they are violent or disruptive. We need to create a safe learning environment in our schools.
Another bill will prohibit an individual from smoking cannabis in the passenger area of a motor vehicle if a minor is present.
This is currently a civil offense subject to a maximum fine of $25. My bill will make it a misdemeanor, punishable by imprisonment for up to one year and/or a fine of up to $1,000.
Another bill will require the Commissioner of Correction to remove an incarcerated individual from home detention for violating the condition of that program.
Being on home detention is a privilege, not a right. We have had too many instances where there is an individual committing a crime that is on home detention.
The collapse of the Key Bridge has increased commute times and brought more traffic on our local roads, requiring more maintenance.
I will be presenting legislation that will reduce car registration for residents of District 6. While car registration has increased dramatically this year, construction on the Key Bridge has not even begun.
I will fight to get some of that money back into the pockets of our residents which had to bear the brunt of the loss of the bridge.
I will be presenting legislation that would make housing more affordable for first-time home buyers and seniors.
With both housing costs and interest rates at a high level, many potential first-time home buyers are prevented from becoming property owners.
I am also proposing legislation that will investigate the method the County uses for property tax appraisals.
Homeowners should not be penalized because the property down the street sells at an inflated price.
Legislative change is most effective when it is driven by the community.
I need your help! I am looking for residents interested in testifying on these issues. If you are concerned about our direction and want to advocate for safer communities or fair taxes, please join me in making our voices heard at the upcoming hearings.
My office can be reached by phone at (410) 841-3458 or email at Bob.Long@house.maryland.gov.
I would like to talk to you if you are interested in testifying. Testimony is in person OR online. My first bill hearings will be scheduled throughout February.
It has been an honor going to Annapolis to represent the citizens of District 6. I will continue to fight for the issues that are important to you.
