Where you live: Emmitsburg

Current occupation and employers (may also list up to two previous jobs you’ve held); if retired, list your last job and employer: Current: Investigator III, Frederick County State’s Attorney’s Office, Circuit Court Division. Previous: Lieutenant, Westminster Police Department (retired in 2019)

Political experience (public offices held and when; as well as unsuccessful campaigns for office and which years; do not include political party positions): Republican candidate for Frederick County Council District 5 (2018), lost in the primary election

Campaign information:

• email: valentine4delegate@gmail.com  
• website: valentine4delegate.com
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/WilliamValentine2022

1 - Why are you running for this office? (75 words)

I am running for the House of Delegates to support our law enforcement and first responders. I will work to promote and encourage small business growth by limiting regulations and government overreach. I am committed to the continued success of the agricultural and farming industries within the state and particularly Washington and Frederick counties. I will advocate for efficient, transparent, and limited state government.

2 - What is the most important issue for Frederick County in this race? How would you address it? (100 words)

Frederick County has experienced substantial residential growth during the past several years. As a result, road construction, road maintenance and other infrastructure necessities will continue to be important issues within the county. In addition, residential growth impacts our agricultural land and farms. I will work collaboratively with members of the Frederick County delegation, Frederick County executive, Frederick County Council and municipalities to achieve sustainable growth, while supporting the preservation of our farmland.

3 - What experience (work, political or other) has prepared you to hold this office? (100 words)

My work experience is comprised of nearly 30 years of service in the public sector. This employment experience with government entities and elected officials has shown me the importance of open and transparent government. I have witnessed and learned the legislative process, as well as the roles municipal, county and state government play in serving our communities. I have developed a strong network of public and private sector professionals throughout Maryland over the course of my career. These experiences will serve me well when drafting and reviewing proposed legislation and being open to ideas from public, private and community-based organizations.

4 - What is one major issue the current House of Delegates has handled poorly and what would you have done differently? (100 words)

This year, the House of Delegates passed legislation temporarily eliminating certain fuel taxes for a 30-day period beginning in March 2022. The legislation passed with bipartisan support and in a short period of time. Unfortunately, this 30-day period was not extended, despite the continued rise in fuel prices and inflation. HB 1515 signed by then-Gov. Martin O’Malley in 2013 links inflation with gas tax increases. As a result, Marylanders will continue to see gas prices increase July 1, 2022. I'll work to obtain bipartisan support and seek to repeal the requirement that certain fuel tax rates are linked to inflation.

5 - What is the most pressing health care issue in the state? How would you address it? (100 words)

The continuing rise in health care and prescription costs for individuals and families, particularly those on fixed incomes and seniors. State commissions on health care can support and recommend competitive pricing while examining substantial price increases in the health care industry. I support improving competition in the health care market, both providers and insurers, and encourage additional insurance plan transparency as it relates to pricing and the delivery of health care services.

6 - What is the most pressing public safety issue in the state? How would you address it? (100 words)

The most pressing public safety issue in Maryland is violent crime. I support strengthening penalties for those convicted of possessing firearms illegally and those convicted of using firearms in the commission of a crime, specifically repeat offenders. Prosecution of those accused of intimidating and retaliating against victims and state witnesses will strengthen cases. The publication of information related to the sentencing of individuals convicted of violent crimes will add transparency to the criminal justice system.

7 - How well is the state addressing climate change? What would you do differently? (100 words)

The Maryland General Assembly has taken steps to place Maryland at the forefront of combating climate change within the region and country. However, I feel the overall size of Maryland and its proximity to neighboring states with less stringent regulations will not maximize the benefits Maryland’s climate change legislation intended. Climate change legislation ultimately passes on the associated expenses of upgrading our energy sources to the residents and businesses of this state, many of which will then choose to relocate to a neighboring state with less regulations.

8 - Do you support widening interstates 270 and 495 and adding tolls? Why or why not? (100 words)

I support widening interstates 270 and 495 to reduce traffic congestion, thus allowing individuals who have been negatively impacted for many years to reach their intended destinations, such as home or work faster. While I am not a supporter of tolls, I understand a project of this magnitude will require a substantial amount of funding. The addition of toll lane(s) will provide ongoing revenue for the continued maintenance of the project in future years.