Category: Government Relations

FY 2026 Budget & Capital Plans
Lawmakers approved a $6.5 billion operating budget (HB 225), investing in key statewide priorities:

• $8 million to launch an Early Literacy Emergency Fund.

• $3.2 million to ensure every Delaware student can receive a free breakfast.

• Over $85 million dedicated to offset inflationary costs and rising statewide Medicaid service needs.

Additionally, a $37 million supplemental budget (HB 226) was passed to address one-time needs, while the Bond Bill (capital budget) secured $977 million for major projects, including:

• $211.2 million for K-12 construction and improvement projects, with significant funding directed to districts like Appoquinimink, Colonial, and Christina.

• $42.2 million for critical maintenance at correctional facilities.

• $19 million for the Affordable Rental Housing Program to boost housing access.

Energy & Climate Action

• Energy Fund & Bill Assistance (HB 50): Established a dedicated fund to expand utility bill assistance for low-income households and invest in sustainable energy solutions.

• Senate Bill 159: Advanced U.S. Wind’s offshore wind project (250+ MW) by requiring permits for substations, reversing Sussex County’s earlier denial. This move reignited debate over local versus state energy authority.

• Senate Joint Resolution 3: Launched a pilot program to explore and deploy battery storage systems across Delaware, laying groundwork for a more resilient energy grid.

Government Accountability

• Office of Inspector General (SB 4 / SS1 for SB 21): Delaware will establish an independent, nonpartisan Office of Inspector General tasked with investigating fraud, waste, and corruption within state agencies.

Criminal Justice Reform

• Death Penalty Abolition (HB 35 / HS 1): Delaware took a major step toward permanently abolishing the death penalty by advancing a constitutional amendment through the first required reading cycle. A second legislative approval will be needed to finalize this historic change.

Looking Ahead

• The death penalty amendment must be approved again in the next session to become part of the state constitution.

• Lawmakers will continue to watch reserve fund health closely to ensure long-term budget sustainability.

If you’d like more information about these bills, detailed vote counts, or what to expect in year two of the session, please let us know!

On President’s Day, the U.S. recognizes and celebrates the Presidents that have shaped American history and the integrity of our nation. President’s Day allows us to reflect on the nuance of strategic leadership, and its many modes of implementation across federal, state and local governments.

Preserving U.S. democracy, however, requires legislators and political officials to remain in tune to public opinion. On a foundational level, public opinion can be measured through citizen satisfaction, or a lack thereof. When we begin to better understand disparities in favorability across governance, we can understand the changing dynamics of partisan politics and the affiliated policies.

A recent Pew Research Center study finds that after the 2024 election:

• 69% of registered voters said the elections in their community were administered efficiently
• 43% said the same about elections across the United States
  • 61% of U.S. adults had a favorable view of their government
  • 22% felt positively about the federal government.

• 63% of voters said elections in their community were administered well
• 21% felt the same about federal elections

By and large these statistics represent Americans connection to community, and policies that function on a micro scale, or resonate on a personal level. Education, healthcare, and crime are chief among these concerns.

At Compass Government Relations, we are committed to personalized advocacy whether that entails building meaningful relationships with legislators, tailoring your business needs for success, or fighting for urgent legislative change. If you need access to legislators or policymakers, at the local, state, or federal levels – we can get started today!

As Maryland prepares for its 2025 legislative session, there’s much to anticipate: the budget as the main issue at hand, vacant seats in the legislature, and potential impacts of the Trump administration in Maryland. We’ll also provide updates on neighboring states, Delaware and Pennsylvania, with insights from Alex.

Be sure to check out the session calendar and mark your calendars for our Maryland Day Party!

“The General Assembly will have to tackle a significant budget shortfall which amounts to $1 billion in the current fiscal year, $2.7 billion in the next fiscal year, and will continue to grow from there. With the Moore Administration resistant to tax increases, we can expect some difficult budget decisions to be made with respect to spending cuts and legislature-led tax measures. Many things are on the table including a sales tax on services and corporate tax reform.” – Tyler Bennett

“The election of State Senator Sarah Elfreth to the US House of Representatives, leaves an open seat in the State Senate. Both Delegate Dana Jones and Delegate Shaneka Henson have indicated their interest in moving to the Senate. The Anne Arundel Democratic Central Committee will decide in the next several weeks which delegate will get the Senate seat. This also means that a seat will open up in the Maryland House of Delegates when one of the two candidates gets the nod. Stay tuned to Compass for developments and changes in the Maryland legislature.” – Hannah Garagiola

“There is currently uncertainty surrounding several key issues that could impact Maryland’s future. Presently, there is uncertainty about whether the federal government will fully fund the Key Bridge project. Additionally, the fate of federal renewable energy funding for states remains uncertain. Another question is whether the FBI Headquarters will still relocate to Maryland as previously planned. There are concerns about potential reductions to the federal workforce, which will have trickle down fiscal impacts to Maryland’s state budget.” – Rob Garagiola

DE & PA 2025 Items to Watch – Alex Shull McKitrick

• Inauguration Day – January 21st, 2025 Matt Meyer will be sworn in as Delaware’s 75th Governor
• Delaware Renewable Energy is likely to be a hot topic. Items like energy storage, the state’s RPS goals, and solar siting are all be discussed by leadership
• Criminal Justice and Health Care costs are also likely to be front of mind for the Delaware legislature
• The Pennsylvania Legislature remains split down party lines for 2025 making it challenging to pass legislation.
• Pennsylvania Mass transit funding
• Pennsylvania Cannabis Legalization
• Pennsylvania Games of Skill Regulation and Taxation

As AI technology keeps evolving, states like Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania, and Washington, D.C. are stepping up with new rules and oversight. In this issue, we’ll look at how these states are working to ensure AI is used ethically and responsibly while still encouraging innovation. Stay tuned for the latest updates on how different regions are shaping the future of AI regulation.

Federal Government

H.R. 2575 – AI in Government Act of 2020
Passed in the House in 2019
The AI in Government Act of 2020 established the AI Center of Excellence within the General Services Administration (GSA), a key step in advancing AI adoption across federal agencies. The Center’s mission is to promote the use of AI technologies in government, foster collaboration and expertise within federal agencies, and ultimately enhance the efficiency and productivity of government operations for the benefit of the public.

Biden’s Executive Order: Safe, Secure, and Trustworthy AI
News Release: November 12, 2024
In support of the AI in Government Act, the Biden administration has made significant strides in AI policy with its Executive Order on the Safe, Secure, and Trustworthy Development and Use of Artificial Intelligence. One notable action is the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) highlighting its key initiatives to recruit, hire, and train AI talent across federal agencies. These efforts are designed to align with the goals of the AI in Government Act and ensure that the U.S. government is well-equipped to manage and leverage AI technologies safely and effectively.

Maryland

Artificial Intelligence Governance Act of 2024
Under the Artificial Intelligence Governance Act of 2024, Maryland is taking important steps to establish a structured approach to AI in government. The law mandates that each state agency conduct inventories and assessments of their AI systems by specific deadlines. It also requires the Department of Information Technology to develop policies and procedures for the development, procurement, and deployment of AI systems. These rules are intended to ensure that AI is used responsibly, with adequate oversight and safeguards.

Governor’s Executive Order on AI
In addition to the legislative measures, Maryland’s Governor’s Executive Order on AI created the Governor’s Artificial Intelligence Subcabinet, a coordinating body responsible for overseeing the implementation of AI policies and initiatives across the state. The Subcabinet will work to ensure that Maryland’s AI advancements are safe, secure, and aligned with ethical standards while fostering innovation and economic growth.

Delaware

Delaware Artificial Intelligence Commission

Delaware recently established the Delaware Artificial Intelligence (AI) Commission, which is tasked with advising the General Assembly and the Department of Technology and Information on AI utilization and safety across the state. The Commission’s responsibilities include conducting an inventory of Generative AI usage within Delaware’s executive, legislative, and judicial branches, identifying high-risk areas for AI implementation, and making recommendations for safe and effective AI deployment.

The Commission held its first meeting on July 24, marking an important milestone in the state’s efforts to develop responsible AI practices. More than 40 attendees gathered at the Department of Technology and Information in Dover, including 23 state officials, lawmakers, and experts, all working together to provide guidance on the ethical and efficient use of AI. This group aims to draft guidelines, policy recommendations, and risk assessments to ensure AI is used safely within state agencies. Read more here.

The Delaware AI Commission will operate for 10 years from its creation, with the possibility of an extension by the General Assembly if needed. Its work will play a critical role in shaping the future of AI governance in Delaware, balancing innovation with caution and responsibility.

Pennsylvania

Governor Shapiro’s Executive Order

In an effort to ensure Pennsylvania is at the forefront of AI innovation and responsible governance, Governor Josh Shapiro launched an initiative in partnership with Pennsylvania State University (PSU). This collaboration with PSU’s Center for Applications of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning to Industry (AIMI) aims to leverage the university’s expertise in generative AI. Together, they are creating a Generative AI Governing Board to guide the state on how to adopt, use, and regulate generative AI technologies across Commonwealth agencies. The partnership also provides opportunities for advisory support and encourages collaboration on AI-related initiatives, helping to empower the state workforce and enhance the use of AI for public services.

As part of this effort, the state has launched a dedicated website for Commonwealth employees, serving as a one-stop resource for information on AI, its applications, and governance. This website is designed to help state agencies navigate the complexities of AI technology and stay informed about best practices, policies, and emerging trends in the field. Visit the website here.

Senate Bill 1213: 
In addition to the executive initiatives, Pennsylvania is also addressing the legal and ethical implications of AI. A recent legislative update seeks to amend Titles 18 (Crimes and Offenses) and 61 (Prisons and Parole) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, focusing on the unlawful dissemination of intimate images and the protection of minors from sexually explicit content. This update replaces the term “child pornography” with the more accurate and sensitive term “child sexual abuse material,” in part to address concerns around the use of AI in illegal image generation and distribution. These changes reflect the state’s broader approach to regulating AI in sensitive areas like privacy, security, and law enforcement. Read more here.

Read More Here!

As new elections bring fresh faces and changing priorities to the legislative landscape, maintaining and creating relationships with legislators becomes even more critical for our clients. Newly elected officials may have different perspectives and agendas, making it essential to establish rapport and educate them about your organization’s mission and needs. Fostering connections with legislators early in their terms leads to more impactful partnerships and a better understanding of how to align objectives with emerging legislative priorities.

Delaware Primary Election Results:
September 10, 2024

• New Castle County Executive Matt Meyer won the Primary
• House Minority Leader and long-time member of the state House of Representatives, Mike Ramone won a three-way race on the Republican side for their party’s nomination for Governor.
• The current Governor, John Carney won his primary race to be the next Mayor of the City of Wilmington.

• In Delaware, the Lt. Governor is elected separately from the Governor. State Sen. Kyle Evans Gay won the primary.

August recess marks a pivotal turning point in the congressional calendar for policy makers and government relations services. As lawmakers depart from the bustling halls of Washington, DC, and return to their home states and districts, this annual exodus provides a crucial opportunity for elected officials to reconnect with their constituents, listen to their concerns, and gain insights into the issues impacting their communities firsthand.

Beyond the notion of summer break, August marks a period of intense engagement for government officials and lobbyists.  Lawmakers immerse themselves in their communities, attending town halls and participating in community events. These face-to-face interactions serve as a vital conduit for understanding the pressing issues and concerns of constituents. From economic hardships to infrastructure challenges, lawmakers gain invaluable firsthand insights that inform their policy making decisions when they return to Capitol Hill.

The insights gleaned during recess cannot be overstated, as they inform legislative agendas, shaping policies that directly impact the lives of millions. It’s a dynamic interplay between the national stage and the local realities that defines the essence of effective representation. For those seeking to present their issues to officials during this period, government relations services can be pivotal. Navigating the process of engaging with federal lawmakers may initially appear daunting, especially if you’re unsure where to begin. However, strategic advisory services can bridge the gap between state government and local organizations. 

As the countdown to August begins, it’s essential to remember that while many anticipate a leisurely respite, for our elected officials, it’s a period of intense engagement and connection with the people they were elected to serve. Need help connecting with members of Congress for your organization or business? Compass Advocacy’s Government Relations branch is here to help. With extensive lobbying practice and knowledgeable insights, our government relations services extend to local governments throughout Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania, and D.C. Read more about our services or contact us today to get started.