Government Relations Archives

Compass Government Relations Partners are looking for a reliable and motivated intern with an interest in government, policy, and Maryland politics. Interest and experience in social media content creation is a plus. Excellent candidates for this position are personable, and willing to follow directions working individually or as part of a team. Candidates should excel in a fast-paced, high-pressure work environment, and possess excellent writing and time management skills.

Candidates will be required to work a minimum of 15 hours/week required during Session (January-April), &
should have availability Tuesdays-Fridays from 9:00am – 4:00pm.

To apply: Please send a cover letter, resume, and 2 professional references to compass@compassadvocacy.com with subject line: “Compass Intern Application”.
Application Deadline: October 30, 2023.

On March 7th, both the Delaware House and Senate resumed their 2023 session after their February break.

Here’s what Delaware is tracking, and what’s coming up:

Cannabis

Across the entire country, states including Delaware and Maryland, are enacting legislation to legalize the recreational use of cannabis. Although unsuccessful last legislative session due to a veto by Governor Carney, the Delaware House is attempting once again to legalize the possession, sharing, use, and purchasing of up to one ounce of cannabis for those who are 21 or older. Emphasis is being placed on regulating the market and helping businesses adapt to this new measure.
- Bills to Watch:
  - HB1: Removes all penalties for use or possession of a personal use quantity of marijuana. Those 21 or older may possess, use, display, purchase, or transport accessories and personal use quantities of marijuana without penalty

Voting

Voting is the core principal of America’s democracy but, historically, many barriers have been put in place to keep specific groups from voting. To this day, there is legislation in many states to restrict voting rights and make it more difficult. During this session, Delaware has a few bills that are focused on voting rights.
- Bills to Watch:
  - HB43: Allows Delaware voters who are not affiliated with a political party to vote in a political party’s primary election. This bill will allow 170,000+ unaffiliated Delaware voters to have their voice represented in the primaries
  - SB57: This Act provides Delawareans with confidence that the votes they have cast will be honored when the Electoral College meets to decide the outcome of presidential elections

Sustainability

This session, Delaware has a couple of bills prioritizing actions to decrease the adverse effects of unsustainable and harmful practices. Earlier this year, the EPA awarded Delaware with a couple million dollars to upgrade infrastructure for the sake of public health and to protect essential waterways. Both Governor Carney and the Delaware legislature highly prioritize environmental policies.
- Bills to Watch:
  - SB51: Prohibits single-use plastics such as straws and coffee stirrers, and polystyrene foam containers in food establishments

March 2023 GR Navigator

Tag: Government Relations

Maryland Session 2024 – Legislative Aide Internship

2023 Delaware Session Updates