Just a li’l bit excited…

Yesterday Governor O’Malley came to UMBC to talk about his plan for the state budget to resolve Maryland’s current $1.6 billion structural deficit. Many SGA members were invited to be there including Jay, Elani, Josh (who gave the first introduction), Steve, Gabe, Brady, Brian, James, and myself. As I mentioned in my previous post, we spent the night before researching his plan and preparing questions to ask him to hopefully put a few seeds in the Governor’s mind about our concerns. My question involved the proposed increase in the sales tax, which effectively increases the cost of most items college students purchase. I was really excited about being there and getting to ask my question and shake hands with the Governor, even if he wasn’t my first choice for the job. All the SGA members present got a picture together with him, so that’s kind of a fun one for the slideshow. Once it gets put up on the Governor’s website I’ll link to it or something.

Interestingly, the Baltimore Examiner picked up the story and featured some quotes and from Elani and I, although they didn’t get all our background information correct. For the record, I’m going to repost my complete question at the end. The event was an excellent opportunity and I feel very privileged to have been a part of it—and that I didn’t even have to miss any classes to do so!

Links:
Official Press Release

Baltimore Examiner Article

Text of question:
According to the College Board, the average student at a four-year public institution spends $863 on textbooks per year. Other studies have shown that the average student spends $606 of their own money on college-related merchandise alone, and $287 a month on discretionary items. However, the tax reliefs for income and property taxes will not impact students. In affect, taxes are being raised on college students through the sales income tax. How can we help students meet these rising costs?

EDIT (10/22): Pictures are up!

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