Howard County’s origins are in business.  The first business was farming, and I firmly believe that the legacy needs to be protected.  Maryland's high taxes and unwillingness to be flexible have hit agriculture hard. I find it unacceptable to state that you are for open space and land preservation, and yet policies and regulations make it increasingly difficult to continue to operate as a farm.  The estate tax, disproportionate regulation and blame for pollution are unfairly over-burdening our farms. In the House, I'll work tirelessly to help those in agriculture.  I will also help to halt the erosion of prosperity.  I will work to stop penalizing hard work and achievement.  I will be listening carefully to the needs of farmers and your community.