Crossover Day in Maryland on Monday signaled the homestretch of the state’s legislative session and provided a clearer picture of what bills have a legitimate shot of becoming law. Governor Wes Moore’s legislative agenda has advanced but comes with some significant changes to key bills, including the Fair Wage Act and Keep Our Heroes Home Act. All of this comes as the Maryland Board of Revenue Estimates’ most recent projections show a combined reduction to the general fund of $478 million over the remainder of Fiscal Year 2023 and Fiscal Year 2024, likely impacting current legislation being debated by lawmakers and the budget that must be passed by April 3. 

The updated D.C. Criminal Code that was passed by city council earlier this year was overturned after President Joe Biden signed the disapproval resolution that had bipartisan support from Congress. This is the first time in over 30 years Congress nullified a law passed by the city council through the disapproval process. Mayor Muriel Bowser presented her 2024 Budget to the D.C. Council on March 22. The Board of Trade was pleased to join several other organizations in a letter calling for efforts to use more budget funding to reinvigorate the economy, impose no new taxes, improve the regulatory environment, and protect core services. 

Things remain in-process in Virginia, as budget conferees work to form a consensus on a revised budget with potential tax relief included. Governor Glenn Youngkin has until March 27 to act on legislation, which will be followed by the General Assembly reconvening on April 12 to consider any actions taken by the Governor and with the intent to adopt a revised budget. Youngkin signed 51 bills into law this week, marking his first action on the 819 pieces of legislation that passed the most recent session. 

Below is a deeper look at legislation and initiatives we are following across D.C., Maryland, and Virginia: 

DC: 

DC Criminal Code 

President Biden signed the disapproval resolution pertaining to D.C.’s updated criminal code. This comes after it had already passed the House (250-173) and Senate (81-14) with considerable bipartisan support. Prior to the Senate voting on the disapproval resolution, D.C. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson tried to withdraw the legislation to prevent an official vote from taking place, this however did not impact Senate proceedings and the vote went ahead as scheduled. Mayor Bowser has already unveiled amendments to the criminal code that would: 

• Create opportunities for the public to provide input on policy changes around jury trials and expansion of the Second Look Act. 
• Restore penalties on crimes that the public has expressed significant concerns about in recent months. 
• Allow sufficient time for training and data systems changes across the criminal justice system by updating the implementation date to January 1, 2027. 

The Board of Trade will continue to work with Mayor Bowser and D.C. Council to amend the legislation to create a safer environment for residents of the District and the business community.  

D.C.’s Stop Discrimination by Algorithms Act of 2023  

Councilmembers introduced the Stop Discrimination by Algorithms Act of 2023 (B25-0114) earlier this year. This bill as proposed will impose significant new requirements and penalties for violations on many businesses in the District. Among other organizations, the Board of Trade is seeking to better understand how this bill can be implemented without harming businesses and allowing them to stay competitive. The bill was referred to the Committee on Business and Economic Development and Committee on Judiciary and Public Safety. It is expected that action on the legislation will not take place until after the budget has been finalized.  

DC Budget 

Mayor Bowser submitted her Fiscal Year 2024 Budget to the D.C. Council on March 22. The Board of Trade was pleased to join several organizations in a letter to Mayor Bowser calling for efforts to reinvigorate the economy, impose no new taxes, improve the regulatory environment, and protect core services. This is more imperative considering the updated revenue projections from the city’s CFO Glen Lee, which show a $464 million shortfall over the next three fiscal years. The shortfall stems from the reduction in tax revenue from large commercial properties and office buildings, which have been impacted heavily by remote work. The Board of Trade looks forward to advocating on behalf of the business community as Mayor Bowser’s budget is debated and amended by D.C. Council.  

Maryland  

Broadband Expansion  

(HB0551 – The Speaker / SB0547 – The President) 

The legislation, as originally proposed, called for tax incentives to assist expanding broadband access throughout the state. It would have allowed a tax reduction for companies that receive federal grants for broadband deployment while providing an exemption from the sales and use tax on the purchase of broadband equipment. However, amendments were added and accepted to the House version of the bill that removed the tax incentives portion of the legislation. Additionally, it now requires the Office of Statewide Broadband within the Department of Housing and Community Development to conduct a study and report to the Governor and the General Assembly on or before July 1, 2024, on certain incentives to encourage the expansion of broadband infrastructure in the state. It has passed the House (135-1) and has been referred to the Senate Budge and Taxation committee. The original Senate version of the legislation did not move.   

Fair Wage Act of 2023   

(HB0549 – The Speaker / SB0555 – The President)  

The legislation as originally proposed aimed to increase the minimum wage to $15 an hour by October 1, 2023. Additionally, it would tie the minimum wage to the Consumer Price Index with a cap of 5% after reaching $15, resulting in automatic increases to the minimum wage moving forward. Under current Maryland law, minimum wage was to be raised incrementally, ultimately reaching $15 an hour starting Jan 1, 2025. Businesses with 14 or fewer employees would be permitted to wait until July 1, 2026, to get to $15 an hour. However, amendments to the Senate version of the legislation, that were added by the Finance Committee, removed the Consumer Price Index component and pushed the start date of $15 minimum wage from October 1, 2023, to January 1, 2024. Both small and large businesses would be on the same track. This version passed the Senate (31-14) and is headed to the House Economic Matters Committee. The original House version of the legislation did not move.  

Income Tax – Subtraction Modification for Military Retirement Income – Keep Our Heroes Home Act   

(HB0554 – The Speaker / SB0553 – The President) 

In an effort to prevent military veterans from moving out of the state, Governor Moore proposed tax incentives in the form of increases to their retirement exemption. The initial version of the legislation called for the first $40,000 of military retirement income to be subtracted, regardless of age. However, the legislation as currently passed by the House and Senate, reduced the amount exempted and restrict it by age: 

• For individuals at least 55 years old the subtraction modification is increased to $20,000 from $15,000 in current law.  
• For individuals under 55 years of age the subtraction modification is increased to $12,500 from $5,000 in current law.  
• If passed, the bill is effective July 1, 2023, for taxable years after December 31, 2022.      

While this is still an increase compared to what is currently available for veterans, more will likely be needed in the future in order to keep them in the state, especially considering 36 other states do not tax military retirement income at all. Virginia passed legislation in 2022 that will ultimately result in a subtraction of $40,000 by 2025 for those 55 and older. 

Economic Development – Build Our Future Grant Pilot Program and Fund   

(HB0552 – The Speaker / SB0549 – The President) 

This bill would establish the Build Our Future Grant Pilot Program in the Department of Commerce to fund infrastructure projects to support innovation in targeted industry sectors. Those sectors include things such as advanced manufacturing, life sciences, quantum, and cybersecurity. Projects could potentially include Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities (SCIF), wet laboratories, manufacturing centers, cyber ranges, along with other specialized workforce training or skill certification spaces. The grants funds are eligible to be utilized on the infrastructure related components, like the cost to acquire, construct, improve, or equip a space. $10 million would be available in Fiscal Year 2024, with a matching requirement of 200% for grants under $1 million and 400% for grants up to $2 million (the max grant allowable). This legislation helps bring more investment into the state, resulting in increased growth and jobs in well-paying industries, which would benefit the region. Both the Senate and House version of this legislation has passed.  

Economic Development – Industry 4.0 Technology Grant Program  

(HB0622 – Del. Qi / SB0906 – Sen. Rosapepe) 

This bill would establish the Industry 4.0 Technology Grant Program in the Department of Commerce to provide grants to certain small and medium-sized manufacturing enterprises to assist those manufacturers with implementing new Industry 4.0 technology or related infrastructure. With the upfront capital being too much of a financial burden for many small and medium sized manufactures to invest in, support is needed to ensure the industry remains viable within the state. The Board of Trade provided written testimony in support of the legislation. While the initial version of the legislation called for a $10 million investment per year from 2023-2028, the House version of the legislation amended it to $1 million per year from 2025-2028, and will aim to set aside 20% of the funds for manufacturers who employ 50 or fewer employees. The legislation passed the House (122-15) and was referred to the Senate Budget and Tax Committee along with the Senate Finance Committee.  

Virginia  

Virginia Budget 

Budget conferees continue to negotiate to adopt a revised budget. There does remain the potential for additional tax relief, most likely in the form of a rebate along with an increase to the standard deduction. Several bipartisan priorities that had been at the center of discussions throughout the session remain in play, those items include salary increases for state employees and teachers, greater funding of new mental health and substance abuse services, economic development site preparation, and initiatives to reverse pandemic-related learning loss in K-12 school systems. 

Governor Wes Moore joined the Greater Washington Board of Trade to kick off our Regional Policy Leadership Series conversations for 2023.

Moore spoke about various key initiatives as part of his first 60-days as governor of Maryland. He also answered questions from the Board of Trade’s business partners, highlighting the state’s capacity to invest in public-private partnerships.

Event moderator Misty Allen, Vice President Government & Regulatory Affairs and Community Impact for Comcast, also asked the governor questions regarding regional competitiveness, transportation, technology, education, workforce, and more.

When diving into competitiveness economically, Moore shared what makes him the most frustrated when he thinks about missed potential in the State of Maryland.

“One of the biggest frustrations that I have, is that as a state, we have this tendency to be asset rich and strategy poor,” said Moore. “When we think about the assets of the State of Maryland, I don’t know a single state that would trade assets with the State of Maryland. But why is it that the State of Maryland over the last eight years we have seen national GDP rising of 23%, and Maryland’s GDP has risen at 11%? We’re falling behind.”

View the whole discussion with Maryland Governor Wes Moore below:

This Regional Policy Leadership Series webinar is presented by Comcast. Supporting Sponsors of the event series are G.S. Proctor & Associates Inc., Holland & Knight LLP, McGuireWoods Consulting LLC and McGuireWoods LLP, and MGM National Harbor. Thank you for supporting the Greater Washington Board of Trade and our region’s business community.  

It would be an understatement to say we are disappointed by the news that Maryland’s plan for a new American Legion Bridge and beltway traffic relief is once again delayed. Traffic volumes in Maryland have already rebounded to pre-pandemic levels and this trend won’t slow even with necessary increases in transit options given the region’s population is expected to grow by 1.3 million people by the year 2045. 

Our region is consistently ranked amongst the most congested in the nation, costing the average commuter 83 hours and roughly $1,400 per year, with overall congestion estimated to cost more than $3.5 billion annually.  

This project should have started years ago, and each delay increases project costs, slows regional economic growth, and imperils our quality of life.  

We are pleased to hear that the federal Record of Decision is still intact to allow this to move forward and that Governor Wes Moore’s administration is committed to relieving traffic congestion. This project is a critical component of an integrated regional system, including transit, and we encourage the administration to take swift action.

Sincerely, 

Jack McDougle,
President & CEO 
Greater Washington Board of Trade

Over 500 Greater Washington Board of Trade members and friends attend the 103rd Mid-Winter Dinner on Feb. 23^rd at the stunning Washington National Cathedral. The Board of Trade continued its tradition of convening for an evening of elegant entertainment and allowing the region’s leading business executives and community partners to mingle with elected and agency officials.

From the spectacular venue and décor to the entertainment from the National Philharmonic and the delicious food and drink from Ridgewells Catering, the Mid-Winter Dinner is a perfect example of how coming together and building relationships can make our region stronger. 

See pictures from our 103rd Mid-Winter Dinner here.

Thank you to all our sponsors for making this signature event an evening to remember.  

On January 31^st, the Greater Washington Board of Trade hosted a small delegation from JetBlue at our office in downtown, Washington, D.C.  Joanna Geraghty, president and chief operating officer of JetBlue sat down with a group of member business leaders to discuss the planned merger between JetBlue and Spirit Airlines, and the positive effects this deal would have for Greater Washington.

JetBlue’s proposed acquisition will create a highly competitive national low-fare challenger to the Big Four US Airlines – American, Delta, Southwest and United.  Those four airlines together control about 80 percent of the US market today, while JetBlue and Spirit each represent less than five percent. 

The combined airline will expand its footprint in our region with operations at both Reagan National Airport (DCA) and Baltimore Washington International (BWI), bolster additional workforce opportunities especially from a company that has a commitment to no furloughs, provide more career growth options, and broaden travel benefits for employees. Further benefits would be seen through their social impact initiative “JetBlue For Good” which supports dedicated community organizations, promotes healthy environments throughout communities, and inspires next generation youth education.

While the completion of the merger is subject to regulatory approval, the benefits to the Greater Washington region seem clear – adding more high paying/highly skilled jobs to our area, improving our global competitiveness through expanded competition, and providing expanded travel opportunities with affordable pricing – are all measures the Board of Trade supports.

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Last updated on Feb. 27, 2023

Virginia’s legislative session has concluded without a fully amended spending plan for Fiscal Years 2023-2024 . Instead, a “skinny budget” consisting of a few items was unanimously adopted. There is now a potential special session, which Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin would call once negotiators can work a deal out. The Greater Washington Board of Trade was excited to have supported the workforce consolidation legislation that will be headed to the Governor’s desk and expects to play an active role in the implementation process. Maryland Governor Wes Moore has been hands-on in supporting his legislative agenda, having personally testified in front of the General Assembly on two of his initiatives, the SERVE Act and the Keep our Heroes Home Act. Meanwhile, Congress has taken up an interest in Washington D.C.’s new criminal code, with the House having voted in favor of overturning it. 

Below is a look at legislation and initiatives we are following across D.C., Maryland, and Virginia:

Washington D.C. 

D.C. Comeback Plan 

Mayor Muriel Bowser’s D.C. Comeback Plan was released by her administration and is something the Board of Trade supports but will continue to monitor. Our President and CEO Jack McDougle shares in an Op-Ed why downtown revitalization is important, and ways we believe Bowser and her administration can improve upon this plan.   

Proposed D.C. Criminal Code Changes 

The United States House of Representatives voted in favor of overturing the rewrite of the District’s criminal code. The final vote was 250-173, to include 31 Democrats voting in favor of overturning the legislation. In order for the legislation to be overturned, it would still have to pass the Senate with 51 votes and be signed by the President. To date, all 49 Republicans in the Senate have signaled support for the resolution of disapproval, meaning only two Democrats are needed. While the White House has signaled they would veto the measure if it makes it to the president’s desk, they have not confirmed they would do so.  

D.C.’s Stop Discrimination by Algorithms Act  of 2023 

Councilmembers introduced the Stop Discrimination by Algorithms Act of 2023 (B25-0114) earlier this month. The legislation would prohibit users of algorithmic decision-making in a discriminatory manner and would require corresponding notices to individuals whose personal information is used in certain algorithms to determine employment, housing, healthcare, and financial lending. This bill as proposed will impose significant new requirements and penalties for violations on a wide range of businesses located in the District. The Board of Trade among many other businesses and organizations, look to better understand how this bill can be implemented without harming businesses and staying competitive. The bill was referred to the Committee on Business and Economic Development, and Committee on Judiciary and Public Safety. 

Maryland 

Broadband Expansion Incentive Act of 2023

This bill would allow for subtraction modification under the Maryland income tax for certain qualified broadband grants awarded during the taxable year for broadband deployment; and provide an exemption from the sales and use tax for the sale of certain equipment related to providing internet service and deploying broadband. If passed and signed by the governor it would be effective July 1, 2023. 

Amendments announced in committee:  

1. Establishes a rebate program to reimburse companies for qualifying costs up to a total of $2 million annually. The Governor’s Supplemental Budget includes $10 million in funding. Program is first come, first served.   

2. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) passed in 2017 required that broadband grants be counted as income. This amendment would eliminate that requirement. There is similar federal legislation. 

(HB0551) In the House – Hearing 2/16 at 1:00 p.m.    

(SB0547) In the Senate – Hearing 3/01 at 1:00 p.m. 

Fair Wage Act of 2023

This bill strives to increase the state minimum wage rate in effect for certain periods of time:   

• For the 9-month period beginning January 1, 2023 $13.25 per hour   
• For the 21-month period beginning October 1, 2023, $15.00 per hour   

• For the 12-month period beginning July 1, 2025, and each subsequent 12-month period, the lesser of the average percentage growth in the consumer price index for the immediately preceding 12-month period or 5%.   

The minimum wage rate shall be calculated on March 1 of each year and effective of July 1 of each year. Increasing, except under certain circumstances, such as the state minimum wage rate in effect for certain periods of time based on annual growth in a certain consumer price index.   

This bill would also alter the Board of Public Works’ authority to temporarily suspend the minimum wage rate. It would repeal the requirement that the Governor’s budgets for certain fiscal years include certain provider rate increases. State law currently requires large businesses to reach $15 on Jan. 1, 2025, and small businesses to pay that wage by Jan. 1, 2026.  

(HB0549)  In the House – Hearing 2/27 at 1:00 p.m. 

(SB0555) In the Senate – Hearing 3/02 at 1:00 p.m. 

Income Tax – Subtraction Modification for Military Retirement Income – Keep Our Heroes Home Act – (HB0554)  

Increasing the amount of a certain subtraction modification under the Maryland income tax for certain military retirement income received by individuals, regardless of age, for certain military service to $25,000 for the taxable year beginning after December 31, 2022, and $40,000 for taxable years beginning after December 31, 2023. It would cost about $30 million in the next fiscal year, and if passed it would be effective July 1, 2023.   

(HB0554)  In the House – Hearing 2/16 at 1:00 p.m. 

(SB0553) In the Senate – Hearing 3/01 at 1:00 p.m. 

Economic Development – Build Our Future Grant Pilot Program and Fund

This bill would establish the Build Our Future Grant Pilot Program in the Department of Commerce to provide funding for certain costs for infrastructure projects in eligible technology sectors. It would require certain grantees to provide matching funds and to demonstrate certain abilities; and establishing the Build Our Future Grant Fund as a continuing, nonlapsing fund.   

The Maximum grant would be up to $2 million and require matching funds. Grants up to $1 million require a match to at least 200%, with grants between $1 million and $2 million requiring at least 400% match. A grantee must show ability to cover the full estimated project costs for which the grant is awarded.  

(HB0552)  In the House – Hearing 2/16 at 1:00 p.m. 

(SB0549) In the Senate – Hearing 3/01 at 1:00 p.m. 

Virginia 

Workforce Development Consolidation 

After 30+ years Virginia finally has a framework to restructure its workforce development programs and services. HB 2195 and SB 1470 were passed with a final combined House and Senate vote of 136-1. The Board of Trade’s advocacy reminded legislators that consolidation, clear performance metrics and accountability measured in jobs filled and employees retained is critical to maximizing economic security for both companies and labor. Secretary of Labor Bryan Slater can now work with Governor Youngkin to implement the provisions with likely a first convening of a stakeholder workgroup to develop and implement specific transition activities with work that must be completed by June 30, 2024.  

The Board of Trade will work with interested members to identify and work on those initiatives that have regional impact such as high-quality internship or apprenticeship opportunities for students and tightly tying education/training outcomes to workforce needs. Our 2022-2026 Strategic Vision regarding the future of work and talent will guide our contributions to improving Virginia labor force for the National Capital Region. 

Commonwealth Mass Transit Fund 

SB 1079 and HB 1496 are headed to the Governor’s desk, implementing new transparency and accountability requirements for the Virginia Railway Express (VRE) and the Washington Metropolitan Washington Transit Authority (WMATA) that must be met to continue receiving state support funds. Staff at the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation will quickly have to develop performance metrics that will prioritize uses for the state funding of the VRE. These metrics will eventually be proposed to the Commonwealth Transportation Board for adoption.  

Proposed regulations against data centers 

None of the proposed legislation significantly impacting data center development throughout the Commonwealth moved forward, including legislation that would have required a study of the industries impact on jobs, tax revenue, energy, and water use. However, there is a strong possibility that data center development will be a campaign issue for some local government elections in 2023.  

Tax Policy  

None of the significant legislation relating to the Governor’s 1 billion package of tax rate cuts, credits, and deductions was able to pass during the session, however, there remains the possibility of tax relief as negotiators attempt to finalize a more complete budget after having passed a “skinny budget” prior to the conclusion of session.  

The Virginia General Assembly broke new ground before it adjourned Sine Die on February 25^th when it unanimously approved the so-called “skinny budget” instead of a fully amended spending plan for Fiscal Years 2023-2024. The approved amendments address four key areas: (1) make a required $904 million deposit into the Rainy Day fund due to better than projected FY 2022 revenue collections, (2) make a $250 million payment into the Virginia Retirement System to further reduce unfunded liabilities and protect retirees; (3) fix a $201 million accounting error in the introduced budget and insure local K-12 school divisions are funded at promised levels and (4) provide $100 million in FY 2023 to complete existing capital projects whose costs have increased due to inflation and supply chain delays.  

Budget conferees continue to negotiate, and the entire General Assembly will return in a special session to adopt a revised budget. The key block to consensus relates to what level — if any — tax relief will be provided. Because the underlying budget is in place until amended Virginia technically has a spending plan in place. However, Governor Youngkin has limited ability to change funding priorities and without action by the General Assembly he – and they – won’t be able to implement several bipartisan priorities discussed this year including salary increases for state employees and teachers, greater funding of new mental health and substance abuse services, economic development site preparation, and initiatives to reverse pandemic-related learning loss in K-12 school systems. 

Here is a look at the multiple professional roundtables the Greater Washington Board of Trade offers its member organizations. Roundtable participants are mid- and senior-level leaders who are eager to learn from each other and build skills. Visit our calendar for upcoming dates and contact our events department at [email protected] to sign up.  

About the roundtables:  

Each discipline group meets virtually once a quarter to further develop skills, discuss relevant and impactful topics, and build a community with other like-minded regional professionals. 

Current disciplines: 

• Communications/Marketing/Public Relations 
• Human Resources/Human Capital 
• Executive Leadership (CEO, President, Managing Director, or equivalent) 
• Administrative Professional 

Outcomes you can expect:  ​ 

• Share, discuss, and learn about the latest industry trends and issues with other prominent regional, cross-industry professionals. ​ 
• Adopt and implement new business and leadership strategies to meet today’s challenges. 
• Build connections for future collaboration, brainstorming, and meaningful peer relationships. ​ 

Check out our 2023 co-leads below: 

Communications & Public Relations Roundtable: 

Michael Akin, President, LINK Strategic Partners 

Beth Johnson, Founder and CEO, RP3 Agency 

Human Resources Roundtable:  

Lorraine Lavet, Senior Client Partner, Korn/Ferry International 

In Sung Yuh, Principal, Transformation, PwC US

Executive Leadership Roundtable: 

Patti Steis, Managing Director, Global Engagement Partner and Washington, DC Office Head, Marsh McLennan 

Bradley Flickinger, Senior Managing Director Mid-Atlantic, CBRE Inc 

Administrative Professional Roundtable: 

David Wright, Internal Operations and Executive Support Leader, Baker Tilly US 

Joseph D. Branch, Executive Administrative Assistant, KPMG LLP 

Visit our calendar for upcoming dates and contact our events department at [email protected] to sign up. 

Our policy and advocacy efforts are crucial for the Greater Washington Board of Trade to make an impact on the region’s business community. And our member partnerships with G.S. Proctor & Associates, Inc. and McGuireWoods Consulting LLC have allowed us to engage with Maryland and Virginia legislators as both state legislative bodies returned to their respective state capitals to convene.

January has seen our expanded policy team, which includes the addition of Kyle McColgan, our new Vice President of Policy, traveling to Annapolis, Maryland, and Richmond, Virginia, for the start of state legislative sessions.

The mission for the Board of Trade when we travel to Annapolis and Richmond is to interact and listen to how certain legislative items can impact the business community and the goals of our 2022-2026 Strategic Vision.

More recent developments on our policy goals have included tackling issues impacting regional transportation growth, labor and workforce retention, technology investments, and inclusive economic development.

Our team and member partners G.S. Proctor & Associates, Inc. and McGuireWoods Consulting LLC will share more specific details about our policy and legislative stances as we continue to engage in meaningful conversations with legislators in the region.

About G.S. Proctor & Associates, Inc.

The mission of G.S. Proctor & Associates, Inc. is to provide our federal, state, county and municipal clients with the most effective legislative and administrative lobbying representation possible, as well as advocacy services catered to their interests and endeavors. We develop winning corporate strategies that get them access to key decision-makers. We achieve our clients’ goals through a cohesive team approach that always adheres to the highest standards of excellence and ethical representation.

About McGuireWoods

Founded in 1998, McGuireWoods Consulting LLC is a full-service public affairs firm offering federal, state, and local government relations, infrastructure and economic development, strategic communications and grassroots mobilization services. McGuireWoods Consulting is a subsidiary of the McGuireWoods law firm, and since 2010, has been ranked in the top 20 among the 1,900 government relations firms in Washington, D.C. by The National Law Journal. 

Washington D.C. is one of the most influential and unique cities in the world, deserving to be a global showcase. This is not a partisan view or even a local view, it is an American view, and the federal government must help. The vibrancy and prosperity of our nation’s capital need to reflect our national aspirations to be inclusive and be the best. It’s imperative we work together to ensure the future remains bright for everyone. 

We agree with Mayor Muriel Bowser, our members, and others that D.C. is facing significant economic challenges. In particular office vacancies, transit and transportation, as well as public safety are key factors impacting the Central Business District (CBD) that urgently need attention. Broader and long-term issues must also be resolved including equity, housing, business investment, job creation, place-making, mental health, education, and more to achieve the region’s inclusive economic growth ambitions.  

Our city is home to the government of the United States and serves as its national command center protecting our vital interests. D.C. is also an international capital with more than 175 resident embassies giving it a nearly unapparelled global reach. More than anywhere, it’s here that people come to make history. 

People also come here to live, invest, and do business, enjoy our cultural treasures, attend our universities, wander through our iconic neighborhoods, express their passions, and so much more. In 2019 prior to the pandemic, D.C. welcomed a record 24.6 million visitors from every U.S. state and across the globe. 

All of this results from years of concerted and collaborative efforts to improve the city’s fortunes and it’s fair to say no one wants to see a return to the days when crime and drugs, economic malaise, and outward migration imperiled the city. If we’re not careful and proactive, such a reality comes into view. Rather, we want and need a Washington D.C. that makes every American proud. 

Today’s business landscape has changed dramatically, and it will continue to change thanks to covid, socio-economic dynamics, disruptive technologies, economic shifts, and remote working. Right now, the intersection of empty offices, crime, and transportation are conspiring to undermine D.C.’s attractiveness despite so many other assets. 

Empty offices across D.C. are a major concern with roughly 20% vacancy rates and only about 40% of workers showing up. The CBD gets hit the hardest given the density of office buildings there. The federal government further complicates the picture by preventing D.C. from implementing a response. The feds have an outsized impact with 200,000 workers commuting into the city pre-pandemic while controlling a third of all office space. With a vast majority of federal employees working remotely, no other city faces such a daunting challenge. This impacts a wide range of economic activity including retail and hospitality as well as transit. 

Like the private sector, federal agencies need multiple tools to attract, develop and retain talent. Remote work is one of those tools and it’s unrealistic to expect all federal workers will return to the office full time as they did before the pandemic. As stated, the landscape has changed, and federal agencies need flexibility. Still, the federal government bears some responsibility for ensuring D.C. can weather the storm. They can assist by bringing back as many workers as possible and offering financial incentives to cover short-term gaps.  

Over the longer term, D.C. has an opportunity to reimagine it’s downtown and Mayor Bowser offers several appealing proposals in her recently released D.C. Comeback Plan. Such place-making will take time and coordinated efforts. Fortunately, D.C. has a demonstrated track-record of visionary revitalization projects including the Wharf and Capital Riverfront/ Navy Yard. Plus, there are numerous examples across the region, i.e., National Landing in Arlington and National Harbor in Prince George’s County.  

Transportation and transit are another major concern to employers and employees alike. Metro continues to face daunting funding issues as ridership continues to lag. Our transit system is one of the region’s crown jewels and investments must continue to keep it on track. This includes dedicated funding from D.C., Maryland, and Virginia as well as federal funding through PRIIA and other sources. Without such funding, it becomes more difficult to get people working downtown. 

Likewise, Randy Clark, WMATA’s General Manager, who has shown a positive leadership focus, must continue to address many of the governance, operational and safety issues that are necessary to operate at a high level of performance.  

The interplay between traffic and transit is hard to miss with increased congestion downtown as the few returning workers opt to drive rather than take transit. The Board of Trade continues to advocate for and support Metro as well as dedicated bus and bike lanes, yet the elimination of vehicle lanes is currently causing significant headaches in getting people back in the office.    

As we reimagine the CBD, there needs to be better alignment and coordination across all transportation modes and projects to alleviate short term pressures while pursuing longer-term goals. It is likely that projects and plans concieved before the pandemic would benefit from an update and redesign process.

Public safety is also a current priority for residents, businesses, and employees who all need a safe environment to work and live. This is true throughout the District and across the region. We support social and criminal justice reforms as critical efforts for the long-term prosperity of our region. Still, the Metropolitan Police Department needs the tools and resources required to ensure our communities remain safe.   

Recent modifications to D.C.’s more than 100-year-old criminal code are much needed, yet specific aspects are potentially problematic, such as the removal of mandatory minimums and reduction of maximum penalties for criminal sentencing. 

Addressing the issues highlighted here requires an all-hands approach involving key leaders from federal, state, District and local governments and the private sector as well as academia, nonprofits, associations, social organizations, and community representatives. Success will require clear metrics, timelines, and accountability. 

Our entire region, including the federal government, requires a strong D.C. economy. We support the Mayor’s D.C. Comeback Plan recognizing there are many details to be worked out. We also support efforts to bring back federal workers, continued funding for metro and improved public safety. 

The Greater Washington Board of Trade remains focused on elevating our region through inclusive economic growth and improved global competitiveness. We stand ready to work with the Mayor, the federal government, and all interested stakeholders to keep our city vibrant and prosperous for generations to come. 

Thank You for Your Support:    

Washington Gas is a member of the Greater Washington Board of Trade supporting programs, initiatives, and information pieces like this. Since our inception in 1889, Washington Gas has been a leading example of how our members are working to elevate the region’s business community. 

About The Board of Trade’s Work in Region:  

The Greater Washington Board of Trade is the premier regional business organization representing all industry sectors. Pro-business and non-partisan, the Board of Trade is shaping and advancing our regional economy over the long term, with a focus on improving connectivity and making better use of existing resources. The Board of Trade addresses business concerns that stretch across the District of Columbia, suburban Maryland and Northern Virginia, with a priority focus on building a skilled workforce, enhancing innovation, attracting investment and fostering regional collaboration. This work is backed by a diverse membership, sound research and more than 130 years of experience.

A new year means an update of Board Officers and Board Members joining our organization to build the Greater Washington business community and grow our footprint in the region this coming year.

Our 2023 Board Chair is Jermaine Johnson, from PNC Bank. He is replacing Keith Hennessey who will take the helm of our Senior Council after our organization saw important and positive growth this past year.

The Board of Trade was excited to celebrate Keith and the work he has done for the organization since joining in 2019 when we held our annual Chair’s Dinner at the Hay Adams Hotel.

We also have three new members that have been added to our 2023 Board:

• Denis Dunn, AT&T, State President in Maryland, Washington D.C., and Delaware 
• Jay Farrar, Bechtel, Manager for Government Affairs and Principle Vice President
• Kevin Smithson, PWC, Managing Partner for the Washington D.C. metro area 

Here is a look at your 2023 Officers and Board Members.

For more about the work we did in 2022, check out our Annual Review here.

2023 Officers

2023 Board Members

*** = New Board Member

• Scott Frisch, Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, AARPHUB International
• Marty Rodgers, Market Unit Lead – South & Metro Washington DC Office, Accenture
• Tony Pierce, Partner in Charge, Washington Office, Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld, LLP
• John Dancy, Global Head, Professional Services, Amazon Web Services (AWS)
• Evan Kraus, President & Managing Director of Operations, APCO Worldwide
• Denis Dunn, President, AT&T Washington, DC, Maryland, & Delaware, AT&T ***
• Adam Ostrach, Regional President, Greater Washington/Baltimore Region, Atlantic Union Bank
• Monica Dalwadi, Managing Partner – D.C. Metro Region, Baker Tilly
• Derrick Perkins, Senior Vice President/Market Executive, Bank of America
• Larry Di Rita, Greater Washington, DC Market President, Bank of America
• Bill Eisig, Regional Managing Partner, BDO USA, LLP
• Jay Farrar, Manager, Washington Office, Bechtel ***
• Keith Hennessey, Chief Financial Officer, Bechtel Global Inc., Bechtel
• Ricky Smith, Chief Executive Officer, BWI Marshall Airport
• Ken Wiseman, Design Principal, CannonDesign
• Radha Muthiah, President & Chief Executive Officer, Capital Area Food Bank
• Bryan Pynchon, Senior Vice President, Group Manager Mid-Atlantic Middle Market Bank, Capital One Bank
• Brian Pieninck, CEO, CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield
• Brad Flickinger, Senior Managing Director, Mid-Atlantic Region, CBRE, Inc.
• Kurt Newman, President and Chief Executive Officer, Children’s National Medical Center
• Monica Schmude, President, Cigna Mid-Atlantic, Cigna
• Jay Grauberger, Executive Vice President, Corporate Affairs, Clark Construction Group, LLC
• Misty Allen, Region Vice President Government & Regulatory Affairs| Community Impact, Comcast
• Andrew Flagel, President and CEO, Consortium of Universities of the Washington Metropolitan Area
• Betsy Lewis, Partner, Cooley LLP
• Karmen Rajamani, Vice President, Government Affairs, Crown Castle
• Brian McVay, Executive Vice President, Cushman & Wakefield, Inc.
• Jeremy Blank, Greater Washington Managing Partner, Deloitte LLP
• Mike Policicchio, Partner, EY
• Caleb Vuljanic, Office Managing Partner, FORVIS
• Dirk Haire, Partner, Fox Rothschild LLP
• Steve Proctor, President and Chief Executive Officer, G.S. Proctor & Associates, Inc.
• Diane Hoskins, Co-Chief Executive Officer, Gensler
• Dave Green, CFO, Georgetown University
• Catherine Meloy, President & Chief Executive Officer, Goodwill of Greater Washington
• Greg Wallig, MetroDC-Arlington Managing Principal, Grant Thornton LLP
• Jack McDougle, President and CEO, Greater Washington Board of Trade
• Courtney Spaeth, Chief Executive Officer, growth[period]
• Cary Hatch, Managing Director, Hart  |  MDB Communications, Inc.
• David Whitestone, Executive Partner, Washington DC, Holland & Knight LLP
• Ernie Jarvis, Managing Principal, Jarvis Commercial Real Estate, LLC
• Michelle Dandeneau, Managing Director, JLL
• Ed Grenier, President & CEO, Junior Achievement of Greater Washington
• Paul Stimers, Partner, K&L Gates LLP
• Ruth Williams-Brinkley, President, Kaiser Foundation Health Plan of the Mid-Atlantic States, Inc., Kaiser Permanente
• Lorraine Lavet, Senior Client Partner, Northern Virginia, Korn/Ferry International
• Tim Gillis, Managing Partner, Washington Metro Area, KPMG LLP
• Michael Akin, President, LINK Strategic Partners
• Cecilia Hodges, Regional President, Greater Washington, M&T Bank
• Patti Steis, Managing Director, Head of Office, Marsh, Inc.
• Irma Becerra, President, Marymount University
• Jack White, Partner, McGuireWoods LLP
• Nora Gardner, Managing Partner, Washington D.C., McKinsey & Company
• Ken Samet, President & CEO, MedStar Health
• Jack Potter, President & CEO, Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority
• Chuck Bean, Executive Director, Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (COG)
• Melonie Johnson, President and COO, MGM Resorts International
• John Stalfort, Managing Principal, Washington DC Office, Miles & Stockbridge P.C.
• Tyler Anthony, President and CEO, Pepco Holdings
• Jermaine Johnson, Regional President, Greater Washington, PNC Bank
• Naomi Wolak, Lead Managing Director/DC Office, Protiviti
• Kevin Smithson, Washington DC Metro Office Managing Partner, PwC ***
• Steve Heger, Executive Vice President, HUB International
• Linda Rabbitt, Founder, Chairman of the Board, rand* construction corporation
• Susan Lacz, Principal and CEO, Ridgewells
• Beth Johnson, Founder and CEO, RP3 Agency
• Dave Dacquino, Chairman of the Board, Serco, Inc.
• Dale Kopnitsky, Executive Vice President & General Manager, Skanska USA Building Inc.
• Terry Kenny, Market President for Metro DC Baltimore and DE Region, TD Bank
• Anuj Mehrotra, Dean of the GW School of Business, The George Washington University
• Lyles Carr, Senior Vice President, The McCormick Group, Inc.
• Steve Skinner, Vice President & Business Group Leader, The Walsh Group
• Ethan Selzer, Vice President, Client Solutions, The Washington Post
• Pat McGuire, President, Trinity Washington University
• Evelyn Lee, Regional President, Greater Washington Region, Truist
• Michele Blackwell, Public Policy Manager, Mid-Atlantic, Uber Technologies, Inc.
• Joe Ochipinti, President and CEO, UnitedHealthcare of the Mid-Atlantic, Inc, United Healthcare
• Rosie Allen-Herring, President & CEO, United Way of The National Capital Area
• Darryll Pines, President, University of Maryland, College Park
• Mario Acosta-Velez, Vice President – Local Engagement Corporate Social Responsibility & Public Policy, Verizon
• Alex Orfinger, Publisher and Market President, Washington Business Journal
• Mike Carney, Executive Vice President, Business Operations, Washington Nationals Baseball Club (MLB)
• David Straut, Market Executive of Wells Fargo Commercial Banking Capital Market, Wells Fargo
• Jim Cornelsen, Chairman, Mid-Atlantic Region, WesBanco
• Corby Lawrence, Partner & CEO, Western Transportation Group
• Blue Jenkins, President, WGL
• Randy Clarke, General Manager and CEO, WMATA-Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority