State Senators, Representatives Get to Work in Annapolis

Nearly 200 state senators and delegates from across Maryland returned to Annapolis Wednesday to begin the state's 430th general assembly session.

Gov. Martin O'Malley is toying with the idea of raising the state sales tax by 1 cent to 7 cents but will consult General Assembly leaders before deciding, he said during an interview with WEAA 88.9 Wednesday morning.

Also on the table is the much talked about 15-cent increase to the gas tax.

"We'll be rolling these proposals out over the next few days," said O'Malley, of the possible revenue-raising alternatives.

Controversial  and  are also on the General Assembly's agenda this session. 

See the Howard County's website for a complete list of legislation sponsored by the Howard County Delegation. Here are a few legislative items that may affect Ellicott City: 

HO.CO. 06 (LR552), sponsored by Del. Warren Miller (R-District 9) and Del. James Malone (D-District 12A), would allow VFW Halls and Fire Departments to host a limited number of casino nights to raise money.

HO.CO. 02 (LR 715), introduced by the Council Chair, would authorize the county to borrow $500,000 to cover part of the cost of the new  which will be incorporated into the .

Ellicott City is in District 9A, represented by Sen. Allan Kittleman and Delegates Warren Miller and Gail Bates, all Republicans. To find contact information for your representatives in Annapolis, click here, and enter your address. 

Capital News Service contributed to this report.