Each session there are a few high-profile, often controversial, bills that are a priority for the legislature. This year these bills focus on reproductive rights, recreational cannabis, and gun safety. Here's a summary of several of these bills, along with others that have been of particular interest to my constituents.

Right to Reproductive Freedom (HB705/SB798). After last summer's Dobbs decision that overturned Roe v. Wade, House Speaker Adrienne Jones reintroduced this legislation that would give Marylanders the opportunity to vote to enshrine the fundamental right to reproductive freedom in our State Constitution. After much discussion on the Floor, this bill passed the full House on Friday. 
Cannabis Reform (HB556/SB516). Sponsored by leadership, this bill implements Maryland's new recreational cannabis market, required by the successful ballot question last November, and regulates recreational cannabis to ensure safety through the Alcohol, Tobacco, and Cannabis Commission. This bill also passed the full House on Friday. 
Possession and Permits to Carry, Wear, and Transport a Handgun (HB824) In response to the Bruen decision prohibiting certain conceal and carry laws, this bill would tighten restrictions around possession of and permit for a handgun. This bill passed out of committee and awaits a vote on the House floor.
End–of–Life Option Act (HB933/SB895). This bill would allow residents of Maryland to access medical aid in dying. It was heard Friday in a joint hearing with the House Health and Government Operations and Judiciary Committees.
Promoting Offshore Wind Energy Resources Act (HB793/SB460) This legislation seeks to increase Maryland's offshore wind capacity and directs the state to find solutions related to transmitting offshore energy to land. It was heard in the House Economic Matters Committee on March 6.
PFAS Testing - Requirements (HB319/SB158). This bill would ban the use of pesticide products containing PFAS (toxic "forever" chemicals) in Maryland. It was heard in the House Health and Government Operations Committee on February 21. 

In addition to two previous bills, I had three more last week that passed the full House and are now in the Senate:
Person in a Position-of-Authority HB 226 (SB 21) expands the definition of a person in authority prohibited from engaging in sexual acts with a minor from just an employee of a school to include others such as private tutors, music teachers, and sports coaches.
Water Affordability Assistance HB 538 (SB 380) ensures that residents who need financial assistance to afford their water bills are not penalized by having this assistance deemed taxable income, protecting possible loss of income eligibility for such key programs as SNAP or Medicaid.
Black Bear Conflict Reduction and Damage Reimbursement Fund HB 378 (SB 310) updates the Black Bear Damage Restitution Fund to be a proactive tool to fund conflict avoidance and increase the funding for damage restitution.