Maryland Senate Bill SJ5

Maryland 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/20/23
• Refer: 3/20/23
• Refer: 3/30/23
• Report Pass: 4/5/23
• Engrossed: 4/6/23
• Refer: 4/6/23
• Report Pass: 4/7/23
• Enrolled: 4/10/23

Caption

Locating the New Federal Bureau of Investigation Headquarters in Maryland

Impact

If realized, the resolution's recommendations would enhance Maryland's stature in national defense and intelligence, bringing substantial federal employment into the region. The consolidation of FBI staff into a single modern facility aims to improve operational effectiveness and reduce costs associated with maintaining multiple leased properties. Additionally, the resolution points out the potential for significant economic growth and job creation in the area surrounding the selected site, thus positively impacting local businesses and infrastructure.

Summary

Senate Joint Resolution 5 urges the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) to select one of the two finalist sites in Maryland, specifically Greenbelt or Landover, for the new Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) headquarters. The resolution emphasizes the strategic advantages of these locations, highlighting their proximity to significant national defense and cybersecurity entities, such as the National Security Agency, as well as major transportation links to Washington, D.C. The push for this site selection is framed as beneficial not only for the FBI's operational efficiency but also for the local communities and economy.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SJ5 appears largely positive, with wide-ranging support in the Maryland Legislature for the headquarters' location being chosen in Prince George's County. Lawmakers express enthusiasm about the social implications of placing the headquarters in a majority-Black jurisdiction, as it could help diversify the FBI's workforce and promote equitable investment in underserved communities. This is in line with broader federal goals for inclusion and diversity within government departments.

Contention

Despite the overall support, there could be underlying contention regarding site selection politics or concerns about the long-term implications of a federal facility in the region. Some skepticism may arise regarding the adequacy of local infrastructure to support a large-scale federal operation and any potential impacts on community resources. Nevertheless, the resolution serves as a unified call from the Maryland General Assembly to prioritize either Greenbelt or Landover for the headquarters, potentially influencing national decisions on federal investments.