Compass Advocacy, Author at Compass Advocacy

2023 Delaware Session Updates

Posted on March 1, 2023November 29, 2023 by Compass Advocacy

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

Team Spotlight: Hannah Garagiola

Posted on March 1, 2023November 29, 2023 by Compass Advocacy

Lobbyist Hannah Garagiola is the president of Compass Advocacy, a lobbying group she founded in 2018 that has offices in Annapolis, Rockville and Dover, Delaware. Her clients include the Maryland General Assembly, local governments throughout Maryland, Fortune 500 businesses, trade associations and more.

She is the former deputy chief of staff to the late Thomas V. Mike Miller, the former Maryland Senate president.

What is the most valuable habit you have developed?

The most valuable habit I’ve developed is definitely taking time for myself. It prevents burnout and allows you to better enjoy what you do. Early in my career, I hardly ever did that and now that I have more responsibility and two small children, I really have to take time to unwind. Whether it is to spend time with friends, date nights, working out, cook leisurely or get away, I am better and fresher when I can gain perspective from a mental break.

What is the biggest challenge facing government leaders in Maryland?

Government officials have to balance the various important priorities for the state. Whether it is great schools, a clean environment, less traffic, public safety or literally hundreds of other crucial issues, leaders in the state need to figure out how to manage those competing interests.

View the full list here.

2023 Maryland Session Updates

Posted on February 1, 2023November 29, 2023 by Compass Advocacy

We are almost halfway through Maryland’s 90-Day Session. Here’s what Maryland is tracking, and what’s coming up:

Cannabis

Cannabis is a blazing topic this session after voters legalized recreational marijuana via referendum on November’s ballot. Starting July 1^st, anyone over the age of 21 will be able to possess marijuana for personal use. The question before the legislature in this session is how to implement this throughout the state. Co-sponsors of the Cannabis Reform bill held a workgroup last Friday to discuss how much of the implementation would work. Highlights of the hearing included the prioritization of social equity throughout each implementation step.
- Bills to watch:
  - HB556

Gun Control

After the Supreme Court ruling on New York v Bruen, key legislators in Maryland have decided to revisit gun control laws. The SCOTUS ruling changed the way courts evaluate the constitutionality of state gun control laws. The bills before the Maryland Legislature attempt to continue to restrict gun access and concealed carry permits while attempting to follow the new standard by the Supreme Court. A number of bills came before the Senate Committee for a contentious 11-hour hearing on February 7^th. The next step is for the Senate committee to vote on bills.
- Bills to watch:
  - SB1
  - SB86
  - SB113
  - HBo3

Budget Process

The budget process is underway in Maryland with new excitement as the Legislature has more say in Budget negotiations. Previously under Republican Governor Larry Hogan, the party divide between the Governor’s office and state legislature meant that legislators had to fight for what they wanted in Hogan’s budget. Now, with new Democratic Governor Wes Moore, the legislator has an easier path to prioritizing their agendas in this year’s budget. Subcommittees that unpack the budget have already started meeting, but we are anticipating more discussions in the coming weeks.

Mental Health Funding

While all of these issues will continue to be debated throughout the coming months, we wanted to highlight the stand the Senate took regarding the first bill they passed. Senate Bill 003 also known as the 9-8-8 Trust Fund – Funding was passed on January 30th. The 988 Trust Fund was created by legislation passed last session with stipulations that it would receive around $5 million in funding. This bill, if passed by the House, will more than double the required funding to $12 million by 2025. This is an important message from the Senate about prioritizing mental health and could be an indicator of the success of other mental health bills coming before the body.

Political Strategy: Phone Campaigns

Posted on February 1, 2023September 27, 2024 by Compass Advocacy

A critical advocacy tool to influence public opinion is implementing targeted phone campaigns. At Compass Public Relations, we have the ability to design political campaign strategies that successfully mobilize constituents to support or oppose policies heard before state, local, and federal governments.These efforts are tailored to ensure maximum impact, and they provide a powerful voice to constituents who might otherwise go unheard in the legislative process.

Through careful demographic research and data analysis, Compass Public Relations consultants ensure that each campaign is directed toward the right audience. We send targeted and tailored messages that resonate with the recipients, enhancing the likelihood of action. Our live calls are persuasive and personal, allowing for real-time engagement and providing legislators with a clear sense of where their constituents stand on issues.

In many cases, Compass PR consultants work with lobbyists to execute these efforts in a strategic and coordinated manner. Whether it’s at the state level in Delaware or Maryland or targeting local municipalities, our phone campaigns are designed to make a difference..

As public relations specialists, our consultants are highly experienced in framing messages that either support or oppose critical legislation. Once the message is set, we then identify key legislators who may decide the outcome of such issues.

From there, we generate dozens – or even hundreds – of live constituent phone calls into legislators’ offices. This type of constituent engagement has the power to sway decisions and influence outcomes, making phone campaigns a vital part of any political campaign strategy. To learn more about how political strategy phone campaigns can support your cause, contact Compass PR today!

Preparing for Vacation

Posted on February 1, 2023March 11, 2024 by Compass Advocacy

As Spring (slowly) approaches, many families are starting to finalize their vacation plans. March and April are big months for winter-weary families to get away.

However, as families prepare for their vacations, one item is typically never found on their “To Do” list – estate planning. If you plan to travel with your family, you should really have your affairs in order in the event the unthinkable happens. Whether it is death or disability, an estate plan will provide your heirs with the information they need to carry out your wishes. Otherwise, you are at the mercy of State law and, potentially, a Judge who has no idea who you are.

The core documents in an estate plan are a Last Will and Testament, Financial Power of Attorney and an Advance Medical Directive. While preparing an estate plan may seem like an onerous task, the attorneys at Compass Law Partners will walk you through the process and ensure your estate plan is completed in a timely manner.

Compass PR: Political Strategy

Posted on February 1, 2023March 27, 2024 by Compass Advocacy

The legislative session has convened in Maryland and Delaware, so it’s time for your organization’s voice to be heard. In today’s complex and information-saturated world, simply having a good cause and dedicated supporters may not be enough for your coalition or campaign to thrive. At Compass Advocacy, our Public Relations services act as a multiplier for your efforts, bringing years of advocacy experience and long-term relationships with the legislature. Through our industry expertise, large network, and tested political campaign strategies, we position our clients in front of key legislative allies that produce tangible results.

Working at the intersection of business and government, our public relations firm develops authentic and compelling campaigns that mobilize constituents to support or oppose policies heard before state, local, and federal governments. As part of such services, our public relations specialists can facilitate patch-thru phone calls from constituents to legislators, letters to elected officials, polling and public opinion surveys, and much more. Additionally, identifying influential figures is essential for gaining traction and achieving your goals. Our team leverages targeted campaign strategies to find and engage committees, legislators, or third parties with your messaging.

While your grassroots campaign or coalition may be passionate and dedicated, Compass can provide crucial amplification, such as phone, website, and email strategies to boost your message to the right decision-makers. Broad exposure and compelling narratives strengthens your voice, builds public trust, and increases your chances of making an impact. In the unique political landscapes of Delaware and Maryland, Compass can help your organization navigate the many legislative and public relations nuances–get started today!

2022 By The Numbers

Posted on December 20, 2022November 29, 2023 by Compass Advocacy

Wrapping Up 2022 with the Gift of Estate Planning in 2023

Posted on December 6, 2022March 11, 2024 by Compass Advocacy

It is amazing how many people think about how they need a Will yet push it off from year to year. If you do this (and you probably do) you are definitely not alone!!

Creating your estate plan (including a Will, Financial Power of Attorney, a Health Care Power of Attorney) is not only difficult from a “finding time” perspective but also from the perspective of thinking about your own mortality.

Compass Law Partners can help you on both fronts. First, CLP offers either in-person meetings or virtual meetings. Virtual meetings (one of the positive things coming from the Covid-19 pandemic) allow you to schedule a meeting from your home, car, or office without having to add “commute time.” For some, removing “commute time” opens up your availability to meet.

Also, CLP’s experienced attorneys will provide empathetic guidance to you as you traverse the realities of estate planning. In the end, CLP clients walk away from creating their estate plan with a sense of satisfaction and the security of knowing that your loved ones will be taken care of after your death.

As 2022 comes to a close, make creating an estate plan in 2023 your gift to those you love.

Team Spotlight: Addison Pruitt, GR Partner

Posted on November 21, 2022December 18, 2023 by Compass Advocacy

This past weekend, Addison was awarded by the Maryland Legislative Black Caucus at the Chairman’s Farewell Reception for his service to the caucus. Addison previously served three years as Chief of Staff for Legislative Black Caucus Chairman, Delegate Daryl Barnes.
The reception was a part of the 27^th Annual Legislative Weekend hosted by the Maryland Black Caucus Foundation at Live Casino & Hotel.

We are so proud to have Addison on our team!

General Elections Preview

Posted on October 3, 2022December 18, 2023 by Compass Advocacy

The Maryland General Election this year is a rare opportunity to see the “big four” up for election: Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Comptroller, and Attorney General. With a new gubernatorial administration comes opportunity for increased legislative movement. Select legislators could move into the administration, allowing for some committee shakeups.

In Delaware, all seats are up for re-election due to redistricting. Compass will keep a pulse on contentious races that could impact the composition of the leadership in the General Assembly. This is not an election year for Governor Carney, so we do anticipate general consistency in the make up of the Administration.

District of Columbia will also hold their General Election on November 8th. We expect to see a few new faces in the coming year. Compass is monitoring contentious At-Large race between Kenyan McDuffie and Elissa Silverman.

This election lends the Compass team an opportunity to facilitate working relationships from freshman delegates to Governors’ offices, while strengthening the relationships we currently hold.

We will hold a call on November 9th to deliver a live update from our government relations team about election results in Maryland, Delaware, and D.C.