From the Halls: $15 minimum wage is back
(February 19, 2019, ANNAPOLIS, Md.) On Thursday, February 21st, the Maryland Chamber of Commerce will once again be testifying against a minimum wage increase to $15, but this time in the Senate. We need business owners and representatives to mark their calendars to return back to Annapolis to Fight AGAINST Fifteen. Sign up now.
The hearing starts at 1 p.m. All representatives are welcome to come to the Maryland Chamber office at 12 p.m. and work in our conference room until it is time to testify. We encourage you to attend and share your voice, but if you cannot, please submit written testimony to Laura Toraldo at ltoraldo@mdchamber.org. The deadline to sign-up and submit written testimony is 2 p.m. Wednesday, February 20th.
See why your voice is vital:
ADDITIONAL CRITICAL ISSUES:
There are several other critical issues that we are testifying on this week. Along with $15 minimum wage, here’s where our focus will be:
HB 654/SB 937 – Wireless Facilities – Installation and Regulation (5G/Small Cells)
HB 654/SB 937, would clear the way for Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to deploy next generation high-speed internet across the state. If passed, ISPs will be allowed to deploy small cells that can accommodate the wavelength of 5G. It’s more than just faster speeds and greater connectivity, it is about preparing Maryland for the future economy. Our current infrastructure cannot support the next wave of innovation in technology.
The Maryland Chamber is active in shaping policy in the telecommunications industry. All experts are welcome to join our Telecommunications Advisory Group, which meets quarterly to discuss best practices, strategies and needs within the telecom industry. Topics addressed include:
- Small cells/5G
- Internet service provider mandates (“Net Neutrality”)
- Rural broadband
- Next generation 911 system
- Privacy and data security
Interested in joining? Read more and reach out.
HB 152/SB 167 – Pathways in Technology Early College High (P-TECH) Expansion Act of 2019
The proposed legislation (HB 152/SB 167) would repeal the limit on the number of P-TECH Planning Grants that may be awarded to a local school system each year. As the law is now, no more grants can be awarded to establish a new P-TECH school until after the 2016-2017 cohort (the first in Maryland) completes the six year pathway.
The Maryland Chamber currently has 11 members who are P-TECH partners in the state. More businesses are interested in this model, however, HB152/SB167 needs to pass to enable P-TECH to expand within the state and allow additional schools and business to partake in this innovative educational pathway.
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Together in the fight against $15 minimum wage
From the Halls: Unintended consequences of Maryland’s $15 minimum wage
