Dear Friend,

I wanted to provide an update on the work I am doing in the House of Representatives to represent the great people of Maryland's First Congressional District and to advance commonsense, conservative legislation in Washington, D.C.

Protecting Pregnant Students’ Rights on College Campuses

This week, I voted in strong support of the Pregnant Students’ Rights Act because students across Maryland, including those in Maryland’s First District, should not have to choose between staying in school and carrying a pregnancy to term. College is already demanding, and too many young women feel pressure to end a pregnancy out of concern they will fall behind or lose academic support, even though protections exist. According to a 2022 CDC report, nearly 30 percent of abortions are performed on college aged women. This bill strengthens the Higher Education Act by requiring colleges and universities to clearly inform students of their rights and available accommodations, such as modified class schedules and excused absences. It also ensures students know how to file a complaint with the Department of Education if their Title IX protections are violated.

Expanding Support for Pregnancy Centers

I also voted for the Supporting Pregnant and Parenting Women and Families Act to strengthen support for families and protect the most vulnerable. The bill allows states to use TANF funds to support pregnancy centers that provide counseling, education, and critical resources for parents and children. At a time when many families are facing economic pressure, this legislation ensures that community-based organizations can continue offering practical help to mothers, fathers, and unborn children. Supporting families and protecting life should be a priority, and this bill moves our states in that direction.

Advancing FY2026 Federal Funding for Maryland’s First District

This week, the House passed the remaining Fiscal Year 2026 Appropriations bills, including; Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development; Labor, Health and Human Services and Education; Department of Homeland Security, and Defense. The legislation advances President Trump’s priorities by strengthening national security, championing military readiness and superiority, securing the border, funding FEMA disaster response, investing in transportation and aviation safety, and expanding access to health care in rural communities, all while keeping spending under control.

This funding package delivered several wins for Maryland's First District including: 

• Building a new fire station and purchasing equipment for the Middle River Volunteer Fire & Rescue Company
• Upgrading freight rail lines across the Eastern Shore