District Updates
Invasive Species in the Bay
In recognition of National Invasive Species Awareness Week, I wanted to share important information about blue catfish, an invasive species right in our own Chesapeake Bay.
Originally from the Ohio, Mississippi, and Missouri river basins, blue catfish quickly emerged as an apex predator by feeding on shellfish native to the Bay with no threat by other predators in the ecosystem. Because of this, blue catfish have become a nuisance to watermen across Maryland and have caused damage to the seafood industry. Blue catfish also feed on many species native to our Bay, including blue crabs. As our watermen have demonstrated time and time again, one of the most formidable tools we have at our disposal in reducing the blue catfish population is to fish them out of the Bay and bring them to market.
Because of burdensome USDA inspection procedures, it has become increasingly difficult for watermen to do just that. Language included at my request in the Agriculture Appropriations Bill will require the blue catfish inspection process to be moved from USDA to a less burdensome but just as safe inspection process under the FDA. In doing this, we are eliminating unnecessary regulation and allowing easier commercial catch of blue catfish which would help control the growing population of this harmful species. Passing this language remains a top priority for me.
 Photo Credit: NOAA Fisheries
Important Tax Season Resources:
IRS:
With tax season in full swing, I wanted to highlight a few important resources available to you as a tax filer. The IRS regularly hosts Saturday "office" hours for you to meet face-to-face with an agent. You can find which days as well as which locations are closest to you by clicking here: IRS Face-to-Face Saturday Help.
AARP:
AARP Foundation Tax-Aide provides in-person and virtual tax assistance to anyone, free of charge, with a focus on taxpayers who are over 50 and have low to moderate income. Tax-Aide volunteers are located nationwide and are trained and IRS-certified every year to make sure they know about and understand the latest changes and additions to the tax code. CLICK HERE to find an AARP Foundation Tax-Aide location in your area and to learn more about the program.
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