BLOG: Special Session - - AGAIN??
By now most of you have heard that a Special Session is likely to be called today during the Governor's press conference at 10:00 am. Rumors abound as to whether or not there are enough votes to add a sixth casino site in Maryland. Added into the discussion is whether or not the legislature will reduce the tax burden on the casino owners as a "trade-off" for supposedly losing money with the added site. Also, whether table games will be included.
Also on the table is the possibility that it will not be a one issue special session, that they will take up the issue of pit-bulls and 2nd amendment permit requirements. Both of these could be handled during regular session, but I know that pit bull owners are very concerned over the recent court opinion addressing liability. Should there be a special session, this issue should be addressed.
Many have asked whether I will attend session or join the call for a boycott. I will be there. Voters in District 33 elected me to represent them. With talk of special gaming commissions, tax breaks and back door deals, there is no way that a responsible legislator would boycott. There are not enough Republicans to prevent session, and although there are many Democrats who are also against adding a 6th site, it is doubtful that there would be enough to prevent a vote.
As an elected official, I feel that we have a responsibility to be present when called upon, to vote and to in many cases, be the opposition position. I find many times that the opportunity to present an alternate position or view point can help make a bad bill better. If we don't show up, we have no right to complain.
See you in Annapolis!
John Norville
11:07 am on Saturday, July 28, 2012
Well stated Cathy ! Thank you again for representing us so well in both the Anne Arundel County Council for 11 years & in the MD House. Please oppose the proposed casino at National Harbor as not necessary, but would like to add table games to existing casinos.
Happy Anniversary this Monday to you & Mark! John & Kathy Norville
Cathy Vitale, Maryland House of Delegates, District 33
1:57 pm on Sunday, July 29, 2012
John, thanks for the Anniversary wishes. It will be 24 years. This idea of a special session is nuts. I just finished reading Busch's comments, and I fear that his "throwing" money at Anne Arundel County will now make it acceptable to several local delegates who were strong opponents of a sixth site. August 9th will be interesting.
Cathy Vitale, Maryland House of Delegates, District 33
9:05 pm on Monday, July 30, 2012
So I have heard now, that special session will be expanded to include issue involving breed specific dog discrimination and 2nd amendment rights. So far, expected days of session? four days and counting. Other issues may lengthen the session even longer. Let me hear what you are thinking
Amy Leahy
9:14 pm on Monday, July 30, 2012
Cathy I guess your argument about showing up for the special session is the same as mine regarding voting ...if you don't vote you have no business complaining about the way things are. In Maryland if Republicans don't come out to vote because they believe their vote doesn't count…then their (non-vote) won't count. It's always an uphill battle in this state but the war isn't lost yet.
Thanks for all you do, Cathy and Happy Anniversary!
Brad
9:28 pm on Monday, July 30, 2012
Cathy I don't think we need another casino so I oppose that in general, why not add table games - if you are having gambling does it really matter the form, and while they are at it why not sports books as well? Boy times have changed in 7 years from a legislature that couldn't support even basic slots legislation. I have to assume that those who want the National Harbor casino will want to tie the 2 concepts together to try and push it through with the voters - they should be separate issues if they both have to go to ballot - that would be my fight if I couldn't stop the new casino from moving forward.
Amy Leahy
9:59 pm on Monday, July 30, 2012
Delegate I guess I should also say I'm not in favor of the new casino at National Harbor…resale value on Congresswoman Donna Edwards condo will skyrocket!