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240 250 260 270 A RESOLUTION CONCERNING POLITICAL PLEDGES WHEREAS: Many American lawmakers sign pledges signifying their promise to support a certain cause or policy throughout their terms in office; and, WHEREAS: One of the more popular of these pledges is the American Tax Reforms No New Taxes pledge; and, WHEREAS: Legislators generally refuse to break the pledges they sign for fear of losing the support and votes of their constituents; and, WHEREAS: The most recent sessions of the US Congress have provided several examples of the damage that can result from the refusal of lawmakers to vote on legislation that conflicts with their pledges; and, WHEREAS: Every elected member of the Maryland General Assembly must take the same oath of office, in which they swear to execute their office to the best of their potential and with skill and judgment, diligently and faithfully, without partiality or prejudice; and, WHEREAS: The signing of pledges such as the No New Taxes pledge is in direct conflict with the wording and spirit of the oath of office. THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED: That the Maryland Student Legislature urges the Maryland General Assembly to pass legislation banning Maryland lawmakers from signing or making any pledge except the pledge of allegiance and the oath of office. MANDATES: Martin OMalley, Governor Michael Busch, Speaker of the House Thomas V. Miller, President of the Senate Robert J. Garagiola, Senate Majority Leader Kumar Barve, House Majority Leader

SPONSOR: Ryan Spicer Delegation Chairperson, McDaniel College