Congress is on recess the last two weeks of March. This allows Senators time to meet with constituents and prepare with staff for the upcoming legislative agenda. For me, it is a time to meet with housing counselors, realtors and others in the housing industry to discuss what we can do to jumpstart our sagging economy. It also is a time to promote trade for Maryland business, especially to such new markets as Africa. I will be using this period to meet with and listen to seniors, health care professionals, small business owners and local community leaders across our state.

After the break, one of the first pieces of legislation the Senate will consider again is the Foreclosure Prevention Act. I am a co-sponsor of this bill, which would help current homeowners on the brink of foreclosure by changing bankruptcy provisions, expanding revenue bond authority to restructure subprime and adjustable rate mortgages, and increase the availability of counseling for homebuyers seeking mortgages. In addition, I will be introducing a First-Time Homebuyers' Tax Credit that is designed to stimulate the economy, particularly the critical housing market. This would provide a refundable tax credit of individuals or couples to use toward a down payment or closing costs. We need to balance our response to the current housing crisis by providing a lifeline to current homeowners in need and provide the tools to help prospective buyers realize the American Dream of homeownership.

After housing, energy is one of the biggest expenses for Maryland families. We feel the pinch every time we fill up our gas tanks or open the monthly heating bill from the gas or electric company. With that in mind, finalizing a comprehensive energy bill also will be at the top of the Senate agenda. Along with the Lieberman-Warner Climate Security Act, the United States has an opportunity to advance toward energy independence and become a world leader in the fight against global warming - both of which will benefit our children and grandchildren who will inherit a cleaner environment and more stable economy independent of foreign fuel sources.

Finally, this week marks five years since our troops were deployed to Iraq. I want to take this time to honor and remember their service as well as those who have been deployed in Afghanistan. I am proud of their dedication and achievements. But I also recommit myself to a foreign policy worthy of their sacrifice and the great sacrifices made by their families who have stood vigil waiting for their safe return home. At this time, I join with others to renew our call for a foreign policy that removes our troops from the middle of a civil war in favor of one that engages the international community in a political solution to Iraq's challenges. We ask for a clear policy that refocuses our attention and resources on al Qaeda and other true threats to our security.