At today’s council meeting, Montgomery County Councilmembers Kristin Mink, Will Jawando and Laurie-Anne Sayles introduced Bill 4-24, the Community Reinvestment and Repair Fund Commission – Established.
Per the news release: The bill creates a 13-member commission drawn from impacted communities and service providers to advise on the allocation of revenue from the State of Maryland’s fund of the same name as established by House Bill 837 in 2022.
Under state law, 35 percent of cannabis excise tax revenues are reserved solely for the purpose of localities to invest in new programming targeted at making reparations to communities disproportionately impacted by prohibition prior to the legalization of cannabis for adult use in 2023. The legislation is cosponsored by Council President Andrew Friedson, Vice President Kate Stewart, and Councilmembers Sidney Katz, Natali Fani-Gonzalez, Gabe Albornoz and Evan Glass.
“When we scratch below the surface of the so-called ‘war on drugs,’ we find it was primarily a war on drug users, their families and their communities,” said Councilmember Mink (District 5). “As policymakers, one of the most difficult tasks for us can be recognizing the harm of past policies, acknowledging that harm and repairing the harm among those impacted by our decisions. This legislation is an opportunity to do that.”
“I thank Comptroller Brooke Lierman and our state partners for their dedication to investing cannabis revenue in our local economy,” Councilmember Sayles said. “The creation of this commission is a significant move toward aiding low-income communities and areas that are disproportionately affected by the war on drugs. These resources will assist in reducing recidivism rates and providing opportunities for people to build a better future.”
“I am pleased to be a co-lead sponsor of this important bill with Councilmembers Mink and Sayles, and I appreciate the support from other Councilmembers,” said Councilmember Jawando. “For families who have been impacted by the disproportionate enforcement of failed drug policies, there is much reinvestment and repair work that is needed. This legislation will help move our County forward toward that repair.”
“The purpose of this bill is to invest directly into the communities that have been most impacted by the war on drugs,” said Zakiya Sankara-Jabar, co-executive director of Racial Justice NOW. “This is a beginning step for Montgomery County to pursue a broader reparation policy.”
The fund is expected to receive approximately $1 million in its first year, based on data from the third quarter of fiscal year 2024, which is the first quarter of recreational adult sales of cannabis. Bill 4-24 adopts a similar community-based advisory body model as Baltimore City and Prince George’s County. A public hearing for Bill 4-24 is scheduled for March 5 at 1:30 p.m.
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17th Annual Kensington Day of the Book Festival
Now in its 17th year, the Kensington Day of the Book Festival is a family-friendly street festival featuring 150+ renowned authors, poets, and literary organizations. Enjoy live music on five stages, special guest speakers, military veteran writers and comedians, poetry readings, cookbook demos, children's program, and much more.
Admission is free, and attendees will also be able to explore a marketplace of books and food offerings from local vendors.
Not your average book festival! This festival offers something for everyone!
17th Annual Kensington Day of the Book Festival
Sunday, April 21, 2024, 11am-4pm (held rain or shine!)
Howard Avenue, Kensington, MD 20895
www.dayofthebook.com
Instagram: @kensingtonbookfestival
Contact: Elisenda Sola-Sole, Festival Director
301-949-9416 (text preferred)
FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival
Get ready to experience the vibrant colors, tantalizing flavors, and infectious rhythms of the Caribbean at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival! Hosted by RHU LLC, this exciting festival is set to take place on May 18, 2024, at the picturesque 16700 Barnesville Rd in Boyds, MD.
Step into a world where the Caribbean spirit comes alive! From 12:00 PM onwards, immerse yourself in a sensory journey that celebrates the unique culture, cuisine, and music of the Caribbean. Whether you're an African American, a Reggae or Soca music enthusiast, a wine lover, or part of the vibrant Caribbean diaspora, this festival promises to delight and captivate you in every way.
Let the enticing aromas of mouthwatering Caribbean dishes tantalize your taste buds. Feast on traditional delicacies prepared by expert chefs, showcasing the rich and diverse culinary heritage of the Caribbean. Indulge in flavorful jerk chicken, succulent seafood, and delectable plantain dishes that will transport you straight to the islands.
Accompanying the culinary extravaganza is a carefully curated selection of premium wines, ensuring the perfect pairing for your palate. Sip on fine wines from renowned vineyards, each sip a reflection of the Caribbean's vibrant spirit. Discover new flavors, expand your wine knowledge, and savor unforgettable moments with every glass.
As the sun sets, get ready to groove to the infectious rhythms of Caribbean music. Feel the pulsating beats of reggae, soca, dancehall, and calypso, moving your body to the lively melodies. Live performances by talented musicians and performers will keep the energy high, ensuring a night of unforgettable entertainment.
Don't miss this opportunity to embrace the Caribbean spirit and celebrate the arrival of spring in style! Tickets are available on AllEvents, so secure your spot today. Join us at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival, where cultures collide and unforgettable memories are made.
LIVE PERFORMANCES By: CULTURE Feat. Kenyatta Hill, EXCO LEVI, IMAGE BAND, RAS LIDJ REGG'GO with Special Guest SUGAR BEAR FROM E.U. & MORE! & MORE!
MUSIC By: DJ ABLAZE, DJ SMALLY & NAJ SUPREME
2 NIGHT Camping packages available: RV/CAMPER $200 | TENTS $150 Starting on Friday May 17 @ 5pm | 30 RV SPACES | 30+ TENT SPACES
KIDS 12 & UNDER FREE!!!
