News Archives

Redistricting: Special Session Slated for August

The announcement follows several months of discussion regarding congressional redistricting and recent court decisions affecting the legal landscape in multiple states.

New Maryland Laws Taking Effect

As of July 1, numerous new laws have taken effect, addressing topics ranging from education and public safety to utilities, consumer protection, healthcare, and business regulation.

5 Critical Steps to Passing Legislation

Navigating the Maryland General Assembly can be complicated, and implementing policy change takes time and a well-prepared strategy.

Where to Turn When a Law Could be Harmful to Your Business

State policy can critically impact businesses of all sizes, non-profits and even entire industries.

The Two-Way Street of Lobbying

Relationships matter. That’s exactly why we see lobbying as a two-way street.

2026 Legislative Session Wrap-Up

The budget, energy, and business were key topics covered by the Maryland General Assembly.

Celebrating Japan-Maryland Night

Springtime welcomes the National Cherry Blossom Festival and events to celebrate Maryland’s partnership with Japan.

2026 Maryland Legislative Session Preview

The 2026 session is shaping up to be both consequential and politically charged.

Ravens Game Visit with Lt. Governor Aruna Miller

Maryland Lt. Governor Miller visited with clients and guests during the Ravens win over the Jets.

MACo Summer Conference in Ocean City

The annual event brings together local government influencers and decision-makers in Maryland.

LeadingAge Pens Op-Ed on Supporting Maryland’s Aging Population

Maryland is aging quicker — let’s lead the nation in how we respond.

Lobbyist and Attorney Aaron J. Greenfield Joins Old Line Government Affairs

With a combined background in government affairs, economic development, and legal representation of businesses, trade associations and foreign governments, Aaron builds upon the breadth and depth of experience provided to clients.

New Laws Take Effect in Maryland

One law that is getting plenty of attention is the selection of Orange Crush as Maryland’s state cocktail.

Final Post-Session Bill Signing Ceremonies

Maryland Governor Wes Moore held two final post-session bill signing ceremonies this month, approving the budget, addressing the Chesapeake Bay, procurement, energy, prescription drug prices and more.

2025 Legislative Session Wrap-Up

We recap some of the major issues that came out of this chaotic session with the Maryland General Assembly.

Additional Bills Signed by Maryland Governor

Maryland Governor Wes Moore has signed more than 300 additional bills into law following the 2025 Maryland Legislative Session

Governor Moore Signs Bills Into Law

The bill-signing ceremony on April 8, 2025, was one of five scheduled between now and the end of May.

Sine Die 2025

Going down to wire, the Maryland General Assembly passed a budget on Sine Die.

2025 Maryland Legislative Session Updates

Midway through the Maryland Legislative Session, legislators have tackled many key topics so far, including the budget.

2025 Maryland Legislative Session Begins

The 90-day sprint will cover a variety of bills and topics, as well as a significant budget deficit.

New Maryland Laws Taking Effect in 2025

January brings new laws to Maryland and the start of the 2025 Legislative Session.

Good Tidings from Old Line Client Goodwill this Holiday Season

Goodwill supports numerous community-wide initiatives, including their Thanksgiving Dinner and Resource Fair.

Client Highlight: Excel Center Graduation

The tuition-free adult high school operated by Goodwill Industries of the Chesapeake recently celebrated its first graduating class.

MACo Summer Conference 2024 in Ocean City

Old Line hosted a welcome reception at MACo, which brings together 3,000 leaders from all levels of Maryland state government.

In Louisville for the National Conference of State Legislatures

Old Line’s team was on hand for the nation’s largest gathering of legislators and legislative staff.

New Laws Take Effect July 1 in Maryland

New laws impact ticket sales, indoor vaping, grants for tech startups, alcohol delivery and more.

Additional Bills Signed into Law for 2024

Nearly 350 bills were signed into law by Maryland Governor Wes Moore on May 16th, the final post-session bill-signing day.

Bills Signed Into Law by Governor Moore

Governor Wes Moore has now signed more than 400 bills into law following the 2024 Maryland legislative session.

2024 Legislative Session Wrap-Up

Sherry Nickerson highlights some of the bills that will be sent to Maryland Governor Wes Moore for his signature in the coming weeks.

Sine Die 2024

Legislators in the Maryland General Assembly have spent the final days working on The PORT Act and other final pieces of legislation.

Less than One Month to Go in Maryland Legislative Session

Late nights and a lockdown, fiery debates, and fish? The Maryland General Assembly is closing in on the end of its annual legislative session.

2024 Legislative Session Preview

The Moore administration and the Maryland General Assembly are facing some tough decisions on the budget, juvenile justice, education reform, and the environment.

A Look Ahead: 2024 Legislative Issues

The Department of Legislative Services outlined several topics likely to be addressed in the upcoming Maryland Legislative Session, including artificial intelligence, cannabis, and unused funding opportunities.

Wreaths Across America 2023

Nemphos Braue and Old Line Government Affairs were proud and honored to take part in the 2023 Wreaths Across America event at Dulaney Valley Memorial Gardens.

Supporting Business in Maryland

Old Line can address legislative, regulatory and procurement needs for any company looking to do business in or with the state of Maryland.

American Joe’s Bar Featured on WMAR

As the Baltimore Museum of Industry highlights The Neighborhood Corner Bar in a new exhibit, WMAR met up with American Joe and his brother to reminisce about their family bar.

Changes Coming to Maryland Legislature

With the departure of Senator Melony G. Griffith to become CEO of the Maryland Hospital Association, several changes are ahead for the Maryland General Assembly.

New Laws Now in Effect in Maryland

Passed by the Maryland General Assembly, new laws address firearms, child sexual abuse cases and more.

Goodwill Excel Center Set to Open Late September

Finishing touches are underway at Goodwill’s Excel Center, a tuition-free, public high school for adults, 21 years of age and older.

Summer Social at Bark Social

At our last Summer Social of the season, we were joined by many adorable furry friends.

Why We Chose the Old Line Name

Heralded for their heroism during the August 27, 1776 Battle of Long Island, it was the Maryland 400 that earned the “old line” moniker from George Washington.

At the MACo Summer Conference in Ocean City

The Old Line team enjoyed meeting with legislators, state and county government officials, clients, partners and new contacts during this year’s conference

At the NCSL Legislative Summit in Indy

Old Line recently attended the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) Legislative Summit in Indianapolis.

Summer Social Event Series Travels to Columbia

Old Line enjoyed a great evening at Hysteria Brewing in Howard County for its second Summer Social of the season.

Smooth Sailing with Delegates in Annapolis

Old Line’s Sherry Nickerson joined Delegates Shaneka Henson and Mark Chang to observe graduation day at Brendon Sailing.

Adult Recreational Cannabis Use Now Legal in Maryland

People age 21 and older can buy cannabis products from licensed dispensaries in Maryland as long as they show government-issued photo ID to prove their age.

Old Line’s Summer Social in Annapolis

We kicked off the season with a Summer Social in Annapolis – thanks to all who joined us!

New Laws Go Into Effect July 1

From cannabis to Title IX, from guns to education, many new laws are set to go into effect on July 1.

Old Line Client Goodwill Shares Details on its Excel Center Program

Goodwill Industries of the Chesapeake’s Excel Center received funding as a result of Old Line’s lobbying efforts.

Vetoes from Governor Moore

In his final actions addressing bills passed in the 2023 Legislative Session, Governor Wes Moore issued a handful of vetoes.

Hundreds More Bills Signed by Governor

Legislation has been signed on topics that include cannabis, healthcare, abortion, gun safety, a service-year program, volunteerism in the state, economic development, state elections, waste water systems, and more.

Old Line Secures Funding for Boy Scouts’ Capital Improvement Project

Old Line Government Affairs helped the Boy Scouts of America Baltimore Area Council receive funding critical for capital improvements to Broad Creek Memorial Reservation.

Representing CMI’s Recycling Goals for Maryland

This year, Old Line Government Affairs has supported the Can Manufacturers Institute on a bill that would increase the recycling of cans in an effort to reduce pollution.

Moore Signs 100+ Bills into Law

Among the first to be enacted into law are multiple bills that addressed Moore’s top priorities including the minimum wage and the earned income tax credit.

2023 Legislative Session Wrap-Up

Old Line’s Sherry Nickerson reviews key topics covered during the 445th session of the Maryland General Assembly.

Crossover Day in the Maryland General Assembly

Hundreds of bills, and 20 days to go. Read the latest on this important milestone in the current legislative session.

Green Bag Appointments Announced

Maryland’s Secretary of Appointments presented Governor Wes Moore with 307 appointments to more than 60 state boards and commissions.

Legislation Introduced Following Moore’s State of the State Address

As session has commenced, Governor Moore’s initiatives were recently introduced in legislative form on the House floor.

Cannabis Legalization Work Group Updates

The work group discussed key topics including data that projects the Maryland cannabis market will hit $1 billion in adult-use marijuana sales within 20 months.

Latest Cabinet Appointments for Moore Administration

Agriculture, Environment, Planning and Commerce among the latest cabinet posts appointed by Governor Wes Moore.

Inauguration of Governor Wes Moore and Lt. Governor Aruna Miller

Making history in Maryland as the state’s first black Governor and as the first woman of color to be elected lieutenant governor, respectively, both were sworn into office today in Annapolis.

Additional Cabinet Posts Announced by Moore

Nearing the start of Wes Moore’s first day in office, he announced additional appointments for his cabinet.

Moore Administration Announces Cabinet Posts

Multiple announcements coming from the Moore administration include key cabinet posts and staff hires.

The 445th Maryland General Assembly Convenes

From now through April, legislators will address numerous issues affecting residents and businesses in the 2023 Legislative Session.

2023 Legislative Session Preview

Sherry Nickerson outlines key topics and areas expected to be discussed in the upcoming legislative session.

The Latest Additions to Moore’s Administration

Governor-elect Wes Moore and Lt. Governor-elect Aruna Miller have recently announced additional selections for their administration.

Transition Team: Moore Adds to Policy Committees

Saying that his transition team “looks like the state of Maryland,” Governor-Elect Wes Moore recently announced new members of multiple policy committees.

Moore Adds to Transition and State House Leadership Teams

Governor-Elect Wes Moore and Lt. Gov.-elect Aruna Miller continued to bolster their transition and State House leadership teams this week with multiple announcements.

Governor-Elect Wes Moore Announces Leadership Team

Maryland Governor-Elect Wes Moore recently announced key positions on his leadership team.

A History-Making Election

History was made this week with the election of Maryland’s first African-American Governor, Wes Moore, and the election of Maryland’s first female Comptroller, Brooke Lierman.

Yumi Hogan Honored by Boy Scouts of America

Old Line was proud to be part of the Good Scout Award event honoring First Lady Yumi Hogan alongside their client, The Boy Scouts of America – Baltimore Area Council.

Cannabis on the November Ballot

Question #4 on the ballot addresses the legalization of adult recreational use of marijuana in Maryland.

Architectural Design Excellence in Maryland

The American Institute of Architects Maryland chapter, a client of Old Line Government Affairs, recently hosted its annual Excellence in Design Awards celebration.

Bocce Ball Networking Event

Together with Nemphos Braue, we hosted a women’s networking event on the Bocce Ball courts at Hayfields Country Club.

A Timeline to Celebrate Old Line’s Anniversary

We’re proud to celebrate MORE than just our anniversary. Thank you to our clients and supporters who have trusted us with more than their business, but a relationship. View a timeline of our first 6 years!

Recycling Refunds: How They Work

The Can Manufacturers Institute and like-minded organizations recently launched RecyclingRefundsWork.org, a repository of information on recycling refund and container deposit programs.

New Laws Take Effect October 1

New laws regarding child safety seats and moving over for stopped vehicles take effect today.

Celebrating our 5+1 Anniversary

Six years ago, George Nemphos and Tim Braue launched Nemphos Braue and Old Line Government Affairs. In honor of this special occasion, we’re hosting a very special 5+1 Anniversary Event!

Taco Thursday at MACo: Photos

We had an amazing turnout for our MACo dinner reception. Check out the photos!

Old Line to Host Reception at MACo

Join us for a Taco Thursday dinner reception at MACo in Ocean City!

Photos: NLWL Event at NCSL in Denver

Members of the National League of Women Lobbyists (NLWL) and their guests enjoyed a fabulous kick-off to the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) in Denver.

Maryland Primary Election Results

We’ve compiled results and news coverage from Maryland’s Primary Election, and will continue to track updates as mail-in votes are tabulated.

Early Voting Underway Leading up to Primary Election

An overview and recent news coverage of Maryland’s Primary Election with early voting now underway.

Bills Going Into Law Without Hogan’s Signature

Nearly 300 additional bills will go into law without Governor Hogan’s signature, and 18 measures have been vetoed.

Lobbyists Secure Even More Funding for Goodwill

Old Line secured additional funding for Goodwill through legislation recently signed by Governor Hogan, adding to financial support secured through the Executive Branch.

Lobbying Results in Success for Healthcare Distribution Alliance

Great news for Old Line client HDA! Legislation amending reporting requirements for PSAOs was recently signed by Governor Hogan.

Hogan Signs 140 More Bills Into Law

Included in this set of legislation is a $4 billion capital budget and additional funding for Old Line’s client Goodwill.

105 Additional Bills Signed Into Law

Bills signed by Governor Hogan cover topics ranging from cybersecurity and drug overdoses to student loans and solidarity with Ukraine.

Lobbyists Address Reporting Requirements for HDA

Old Line Government Affairs aided their client HDA by lobbying for legislation to clean up reporting requirements outlined in a 2020 bill.

Procurement Defense for Client’s Digital Vaccination Verification System

When a Maryland legislator filed a bill that potentially harmed a company’s ability to engage in business with the state, a call to Old Line’s lobbyists made a big difference.

100+ Bills Signed into Law by Governor Hogan

The bills address public safety, jobs, environmental stewardship and mental health resources, as well as the criminal justice system.

Advancing Legislation for Parent Advocate Group

Working with legislators and education and disability rights stakeholders, Old Line advanced a bill that had been stuck in committee for the past three Sessions.

Cannabis and 4/20: Details Behind the Date

Today is 4/20 – the ubiquitous cannabis holiday, also known as 420. But do you know how the day got its name?

Representing Green Industries in Annapolis

Our lobbyists helped client MAGI educate legislators regarding a leaf blower bill, successfully representing the association’s needs and its members in Annapolis.

Lobbyists Secure Funding for Goodwill

Old Line helped its client Goodwill Industries of the Chesapeake secure much needed funding for its innovative adult education program.

Maryland Legislative Maps Finalized

The Maryland Court of Appeals has rejected a challenge to recently re-drawn legislative maps, allowing new redistricting to take effect for the upcoming election.

Protecting a Client’s Interest in Salt Matters

Why lobbying works: Old Line ensured that a salt application bill did not interfere with their client’s interests.

Hogan Signs 79 Bills Into Law

Just hours after the close of the Maryland General Assembly’s 2022 Legislative Session, Governor Hogan signed 79 bills into law.

Climate Solutions Now & Impact on Architects

Old Line assisted their client the American Institute of Architects of Maryland (AIA) in advocating support of SB528, the Climate Solutions Now Act, which has been passed into law.

2022 Legislative Session Wrap-Up

Our experts provide an overview of the Maryland Legislature’s accomplishments during the 2022 Legislative Session.

Sine Die 2022

After 90 days of hard work, at midnight on April 11, 2022, Maryland legislators will gather and celebrate the last day of the current legislative session.

UPDATE: Assembly Overrides Governor’s Vetoes

Twenty-four hours after the Governor opted to veto several bills, the Maryland General Assembly met and voted to override many of them, allowing several new bills to go into law.

Vetoes and Bills Allowed to Become Law Ahead of Session’s End

Ten bills were vetoed on Friday, including the Abortion Care Access Act and the Time to Care Act. More than 25 bills were left unsigned and allowed to go into law, including the Climate Solutions Now Act of 202 and a ban on ghost guns.

New Congressional Map Approved by Governor

Maryland finally has an approved congressional map, leading up to the primary now scheduled for July 19.

Press Release: Old Line Government Affairs Proudly Presents “American Joe Week”

Enjoy stories, anecdotes and unique highlights about Senior Government Affairs Director American Joe Miedusiewski.

Tax Relief for Maryland Retirees

$2 billion in tax relief, spread out over 5 years, will provide savings for retirees, small businesses, and low-income families in Maryland.

Cannabis: A Maryland Legislative Update

A comprehensive look at bills involving cannabis in the current legislative session: the volume of bills alone is a sign that cannabis is an issue in Maryland that is here to stay.

Judge Rejects Congressional Redistricting Plan for Maryland

BREAKING NEWS: A Maryland judge has rejected a proposed congressional redistricting plan and requested a new map by March 30th.

Relief at the Pump: Hogan Approves Emergency Gas Tax Suspension

Hoping to pay less at the gas pump? Maryland Governor Larry Hogan has signed an emergency measure to suspend the state’s gas tax.

Old Line President Tim Braue Recognized as a 2022 Leader in Law

Recognizing dedication to clients as well as the community, The Daily Record has named Tim E. Braue to its 2022 listing of Leaders in Law.

Legalization of Marijuana: Bill Huber Provides Insight

Read Bill Huber’s full article in the Baltimore Business Journal for insights and what he sees as opportunities for marketplace success around cannabis in Maryland.

Fundraising Update: What’s in the Bank?

As we near closer to the June primary, many are wondering just how much each candidate has in the bank. We’ve got the stats.

Guest Blog: Cameras in Special Education Classrooms

What happens when nonverbal special education students are abused, but cannot tell their parents what happened? House Bill 226 could help protect the most vulnerable students.

Governor Hogan Presents 2023 Budget

Upon the start of his last year in office, Governor Larry Hogan presented his FY 2023 budget today in Annapolis.

Cannabis in Maryland: A Timeline

In 2014, medical cannabis was legalized in the State of Maryland with the passage of House Bill 881, which established the Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission (MMCC). But how did we get here, and where is legislation headed in 2022?

Issue Papers for the 2022 Legislative Session

This year’s Issue Papers presented to the Maryland General Assembly feature 250 pages covering topics ranging from healthcare to business regulation.

Tax Credit Available for Investing in Technology Startups

Passed by the Maryland General Assembly, Governor Hogan signed a tax credit program into law earlier this year that benefits investors backing early-stage technology startups.

Special Session Underway in Maryland General Assembly

A special session of the Maryland General Assembly is currently underway, tackling select topics including redistricting ahead of the 2022 session, which convenes on January 12th.

Sherry Nickerson Joins Board of Directors for Starboard Society

Starboard Society is a Maryland non-profit organization dedicated to helping working Maryland families.

Sports Betting Approved for Five Casinos

The Maryland Sports Wagering Application Review Commission recently approved sports betting for five casinos in Maryland.

House Cannabis Referendum and Legalization Workgroup: Endocannabinoid System

What if you were told our bodies were built to break down and absorb cannabis? Dr. Patricia Frye presented details at a recent Maryland workgroup session.

Cannabis Workgroup – Important Takeaways and National Perspective

As of now, 18 states, 2 territories and DC have legalized small amounts of cannabis for recreational use. Maryland lawmakers are looking at all of those states for perspective and lessons learned.

Cannabis Workgroup – Issues and Timing

With an eye towards equity, the House Cannabis Referendum and Legalization Workgroup will study issues related to legalization.

Bayside with Old Line in Ocean City

The sun setting. Seagulls cawing in the background. Drinks flowing. Good conversation and greater company. Thank you to our sponsors and to all those who joined us for Bayside with Old Line!

Vanguard Profiles Old Line Client Carmine D’Alessandro of Chesapeake Employers’ Insurance

From weathering the opioid crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic to the transformation from state agency to nonprofit, D’Alessandro shares details of the challenging times he’s faced, his long-tenured and expansive career, and the balancing act it takes to keep it all on track.