Del. Sheree Sample-Hughes re-elected as Speaker Pro Tem
ANNAPOLIS, Md. – With the start of the 445th Maryland General Assembly Session, lawmakers once again chose Delegate Sheree Sample-Hughes to serve as Speaker Pro Tem. She received multiple nominations, and a unanimous vote of approval to a roaring applause.
“We have a seat at the table”
A Salisbury native, Speaker Pro Tem Sample-Hughes has served on several committees over her tenure in the Maryland General Assembly. Before her time in state office, she served on multiple local boards and committees, and the Wicomico County Council; local values that Speaker Pro Tem Sample-Hughes vows to continue fighting for.
“That’s what it’s all about. That’s why we’re here. Our citizens sent us here because they want their voice heard. So, we have a seat at the table, and they do as well through us. I’m grateful to serve as your Speaker Pro Tem,” said Speaker Pro Tem Sample-Hughes.
A Second Run
The re-elected Speaker Pro Tem tells 47 ABC she feels honored to be chosen for the role again. Adding, she is excited to continue serving.
“I feel very humbled, and also very appreciative; Number one, for the citizens of District 37A, allowing me to be here. That’s number one,” said Speaker Pro Tem Sample-Hughes. “Secondly, for my colleagues, 141 members of the House of Delegates, believing in my leadership, and knowing that I have, literally, the Speaker’s back.”
Pre-Filed Legislation
Aside from her renewed responsibilities, Speaker Pro Tem Sample-Hughes has pre-filed several bills.
One, would rework bus driver wages in Maryland. “As we know, wages are a priority. But, there are also some things that counties throughout the state have indicated that there are some barriers. We want to try to shift on some of those,” said Speaker Pro Tem Sample-Hughes.
Another bill focuses on implementing financial literacy education requirements. “That’s been a conversation through many years and many administrations. But, here we are at a pivotal point, where we want to make sure our young people are leaving the school system, and going into their communities with financial literacy,” said Speaker Pro Tem Sample-Hughes.
Looking Ahead
This session, Speaker Pro Tem Sample-Hughes says she’s excited to continue working with lawmakers across the aisle. She is the only Democratic delegate on the Eastern Shore.
“We know what the priorities are for the Eastern Shore. We know we have to keep agriculture as a priority. Our seafood industry is a priority, our environment and way of life is a priority,” said Speaker Pro Tem Sample-Hughes. “It is indicative of our community. We all come from different places. But, at the end of the day, we ultimately all want the same.”
