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?
Marcos: I do support the findings that not enough is being done and that the amount of money is not being spent properly. I believe there is still much work to be done and support the changes with the 9 building blocks for a world-class education system. I will be committed to funding the reform, with proper budget I believe it is not too much to ask for to help develop and better our children’s education.
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?
Marcos: At the moment I believe the roads are getting more attention than the transit system currently in place. While the roads are very important, we cannot forget how important it is to many to enhance the infrastructure of our transit system is. I believe by investing in 21st century transit solutions that ease traffic congestion and promote economic development we will solve many of the current issues we face.
SHARE THIS ANSWER
Do you support the legalization of recreational marijuana?
Marcos: Yes I do support the legalization of recreational marijuana. Times have changed, I support it more for medical purposes, but realistically this is an issue that will not go away, it is supported by nearly 60 percent of Maryland voters and will inevitably be passed.
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?
Marcos: We must urge Congress to reject any measures that could dilute the effectiveness of Bay cleanup initiatives, such as removing or limiting the EPA’s oversight role. We must protect Maryland’s environment and restoring the health of the state’s most important asset: the Chesapeake Bay.
SHARE THIS ANSWER
What steps should Maryland take to ensure the broadest possible access to affordable health care?
Marcos: I support Gov. Hogan’s signed legislation to prevent the collapse of the state’s individual health insurance markets.
SHARE THIS ANSWER
What role should the state play in helping Baltimore address violent crime?
Marcos: State police, parole and probation officers and juvenile services staffers join warrant task forces; state police staff the Juvenile Booking facility, thereby freeing up city police to patrol the streets; and increase probation and parole visits to the homes of violent offenders.
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?
Marcos: At least in my District, District 10; I’ve seen too many business closures and not satisfied with what’s being done to help the closed and currents business still open. I will support legislation to help small business with tax incentives for supporting their community by hiring from there own community. More start up programs to help business grown and succeed. Incentives and help to bring back closed businesses that have been loss over the years.
SHARE THIS ANSWER
Do you support the creation of a non-partisan, independent body to draw legislative and congressional district maps after each census?
Marcos: Yes I do, I believe there are many areas here in Maryland including my own District 10 that are not fairly represented.
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?
Marcos: I do support some changes and updates to the bill. I support making the agencies processes more transparent. I also support that officers should undergo mental health evaluations from time to time to ensure they can give the public the upmost reliable and safest care possible.
SHARE THIS ANSWER
What strategy would you adopt to address the opioid addiction and overdose crisis?
Marcos: I believe obtaining help from the federal government on expanding medically assisted treatment will greatly assist in fighting the addiction. The treatments not only are by prescription but also being able to give a support group to mentally break the addiction and help individuals fight this from all angles.
SHARE THIS ANSWER
What if anything should the state do to address income inequality?
Marcos: Increasing focus on class and poverty will bring forth new challenges, new calls and new cures. . Increasing awareness and teaching economic literacy at younger ages I believe will greatly help our youth close the gap. Creating more opportunities through education and employment will also help the fight, we must help our small businesses thrive and grow instead of seeing more and more close.
SHARE THIS ANSWER
Do the state’s Public Information Act and open meetings laws adequately ensure Marylanders’ ability to exercise oversight of the government?
Marcos: To a certain point only, but it also requires representatives to make more of an effort to come and meet more of their constituents. Smart & efficient government is about providing service. Getting people involved and creating awareness of the meetings in local communities and in the states capital will greatly increase the publics involvement.
SHARE THIS ANSWER