The Maryland House of Delegates convened on February 10, 2025, to celebrate the contributions of long-serving members and to honor the legacy of former Congresswoman Beverly Byron, who recently passed away at the age of 92.
During the session, Delegate Kaiser was recognized for her 22 years of service, with colleagues humorously noting her strong opinions on various topics, including her taste in beverages. The light-hearted remarks culminated in a birthday celebration for Delegate Kaiser, highlighting the camaraderie among members.
The meeting took a more somber tone as delegates paid tribute to Beverly Byron, a transformative figure in Maryland politics. Byron, who served in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1979 to 1992, was remembered for her pioneering role as one of the first women elected to Congress and her significant contributions to military equality. Her efforts helped dismantle gender-based restrictions in the military and opened doors for women in combat roles.
Byron's legacy extends beyond her congressional service; she held various leadership positions in organizations such as CareFirst Blue Cross Blue Shield and the United States Naval Academy. Her impact on Maryland and the nation was acknowledged by delegates, who expressed gratitude for her dedicated service and the barriers she helped break for future generations of women in politics.
The session concluded with a collective acknowledgment of Byron's influence and a commitment to continue her work in promoting equality and representation in government.