Legislators Staying Home This Year

In a continuing effort to curtail state spending, Maryland's two legislative presiding officers have told their members that the state will not pay for most trips to out-of-state conferences and other such travel.

"In light of the fiscal situation, travel expenses for this calendar year will again be restricted," said a joint letter late last month from Senate President Thomas V. Mike Miller Jr. (D-Calvert) and House Speaker Michael E. Busch (D-Anne Arundel). "With the exception of members who cuurrently serve in an elected or appointed leadership position in a national legislative organization, travel expenses will not be approved for this year."

The letter also gave formal notification that legislative employees will not receive cost-of-living or merit raises in the coming year, mirroring the policy of the executive branch.

"We understand this is not an ideal situation; however, we hope that you agree that the General Assembly must do its part in these tough times," the letter said.