Do you support the findings of the Commission on Innovation and Excellence in Education? Are you committed to funding associated reforms, and if so, how?
Seman: The Kirwan commission identified many ways that we can improve our education system in Maryland. I am especially encourage by the renewed focus on Career & Technical Education. I think that the report if implemented properly could be a game changer for our schools. I am committed to funding these reforms.; however, I believe that this must down over a n extended period of time and without tax increases. I know that we can find offsets to accommodate these critical changes over the next few years.
SHARE THIS ANSWER
Is Maryland’s transportation spending appropriately balanced between roads and transit? Does the state have the resources to meet its transportation needs? With the cancellation of the Red Line and the advent of BaltimoreLink, is the Baltimore region adequately served by transit?
Seman: Maryland Transit is key to many communities and the economy of the whole State. Transit has seen a number of investments and improvements under Governor Hogan. BaltimoreLink included an additional 130 million for transit infrastructure. This recent session resulted in a record investment in the DC Metro. I believe that there is always more that can be done; however, the state has made great strides.
SHARE THIS ANSWER
Do you support the legalization of recreational marijuana?
Seman: No. I support Maryland’s medical marijuana program but I do not believe that recreational marijuana will be a positive development for our communities. The effect on our children and implementation issue are a major concern.
SHARE THIS ANSWER
At a time when the federal government’s commitment to Chesapeake Bay restoration is questionable, what new steps should Maryland take to protect this resource?
Seman: Maryland needs to continue to play a leadership role in restoring the Chesapeake Bay.
SHARE THIS ANSWER
What steps should Maryland take to ensure the broadest possible access to affordable health care?
Seman: Maryland should work to reform our tort system and reduce the cost to do business as a Medical Professional in Maryland.
SHARE THIS ANSWER
What role should the state play in helping Baltimore address violent crime?
Seman: Maryland should continue to offer support in the form of crime intelligence & resource sharing. Additionally, the Maryland General Assembly should pass legislation increasing penalties on repeat violent offender.
SHARE THIS ANSWER
How would you characterize Maryland’s business climate? What can the state do to foster the creation of more family-supporting jobs?
Seman: Maryland’s Business Climate is on the rise but we need to continue to improve. I support a reduction of Maryland’s corporate tax rate. We need to be competitive with our neighboring states.
SHARE THIS ANSWER
Do you support the creation of a non-partisan, independent body to draw legislative and congressional district maps after each census?
Seman: Yes. We should remove the politics from drawing our district lines.
SHARE THIS ANSWER
Does the Law Enforcement Officers Bill of Rights adequately balance protections for police and the public? Should it be changed, and if so, how?
Seman: The LEOBR is currently sufficient. I do not see a need for any changes at this time.
SHARE THIS ANSWER
What strategy would you adopt to address the opioid addiction and overdose crisis?
Seman: I think we need to improve treatment while exploring ways to reduce trafficking. I think we need to increase public education in our middle and high schools, as well.
SHARE THIS ANSWER
What if anything should the state do to address income inequality?
Seman: We need to continue to improve the business climate and encourage wage growth through economic opportunity.
SHARE THIS ANSWER
Do the state’s Public Information Act and open meetings laws adequately ensure Marylanders’ ability to exercise oversight of the government?
Seman: Yes. The current laws have been very effective in increasing accountability in Maryland State Government. I believe that we can increase this accountability by require all sessions of the Maryland General Assembly to be live streamed.
SHARE THIS ANSWER
