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House of Delegates Member · Legislative District 9B · Maryland · 2026 Primary
Members of the Maryland House of Delegates represent their local districts in the state legislature by proposing, debating, and voting on laws that impact public education, healthcare, and transportation. They work alongside the state Senate to pass Maryland’s annual budget and determine how tax dollars are allocated to community services and infrastructure projects. This office is vital because delegates shape the statewide policies and spending priorities that directly influence the daily lives of all residents.
View all candidates in this raceCourtney Watson is a Maryland State Delegate representing Howard County who has been serving families for over 20 years in roles including Board of Education member, County Councilwoman, and now Delegate. She describes herself as putting her experience to work on pressing issues with a proven, practical, problem-solving approach. Her priorities include strengthening the public school system, protecting access to health insurance, addressing opioid addiction and mental health services, safeguarding the environment, managing flooding in Old Ellicott City, and advancing public safety. As Delegate, she serves as the only Howard County State Delegation member on the House Appropriations Committee and was appointed Chair of the Transportation & Environment Subcommittee during the 2023 Legislative Session.
Sources: Campaign website
As your representative in Annapolis I am working to help strengthen our public school system, to protect our access to health insurance, to meet head on the challenges of opioid addiction and mental health services, and to safeguard our precious environment.
I have been serving Howard County families for the past 20 years. In her roles as Board of Education member, County Councilwoman, and now Delegate, she continues to take on the most pressing issues.
A strong public school system is the foundation of a strong society. I am committed to strengthening our schools, removing barriers to learning, supporting our teachers and finding ways to make higher education more affordable.
Source: courtneywatson9b.com
Education
Watson supports the Blueprint for Maryland's Future with $900 million in funding, expanded pre-K access, increased teacher salaries, and weighted pupil-funding model to ensure every child has access to high-quality education.
“I am a strong advocate for the Blueprint for Maryland's Future, which is a historic investment in education that will benefit students, teachers, and families across the state.”
Environment
Watson invested in the Howard County Safe and Sound plan including flood mitigation projects to prevent flooding in Ellicott City through resilient infrastructure, stream debris management, increased green space, dry flood facilities, and a tunnel intercepting stormwater from Hudson Branch.
“Since taking office, I am proud to have invested in the Howard County Safe and Sound plan, which includes critical flood mitigation projects to prevent flooding in Ellicott City.”
Public Safety
Watson secured $1.5 million for a behavioral health unit at Howard County General Hospital, supported the Gun Safety Act of 2023, reproductive healthcare bill protection into state constitution, Maryland State Police Gun Center establishment, and $12 million in behavioral health funding for the 988 phone line.
“Improving healthcare and public safety in Maryland has been one of my top priorities since taking office in 2019.”
Transportation
Watson served as Vice Chair then Chair of the Transportation & Environment Subcommittee, overseeing budget process for Department of Transportation, Department of Agriculture, Department of Natural Resources, Maryland Energy Administration, and Department of Planning.
“During the 2023 Legislative Session, I had the privilege of serving as Vice Chair of the Transportation & Environment Subcommittee of Appropriations. At the end of the session, I was appointed by the Speaker to serve as Chair of the same committee.”
Economic Development
Watson advocates for reasonable regulatory policies and infrastructure supporting business growth including workforce readiness programs, public transportation, good schools, and limited tax incentives. During COVID-19 she sponsored HB 12 legalizing off-premises alcohol sales to help restaurant businesses.
“I believe that Maryland needs to do more to build an environment where business can grow and thrive.”
Healthcare
Watson extends tele-health coverage through June 30, 2025 via the Maryland Medical Assistance Program and certain insurers, nonprofit health services plans and health maintenance organizations.
“Extending coverage of tele-health to June 30, 2025 by the Maryland Medical Assistance Program and certain insurers, nonprofit health services plans and health maintenance organizations.”
“I am a strong advocate for the Blueprint for Maryland's Future, which is a historic investment in education that will benefit students, teachers, and families across the state.”
Source“Since taking office, I am proud to have invested in the Howard County Safe and Sound plan, which includes critical flood mitigation projects to prevent flooding in Ellicott City.”
Source“Improving healthcare and public safety in Maryland has been one of my top priorities since taking office in 2019.”
Source“During the 2023 Legislative Session, I had the privilege of serving as Vice Chair of the Transportation & Environment Subcommittee of Appropriations.”
Source“I believe that Maryland needs to do more to build an environment where business can grow and thrive.”
Source“Extending coverage of tele-health to June 30, 2025 by the Maryland Medical Assistance Program and certain insurers, nonprofit health services plans and health maintenance organizations.”
Source