Justin Ready, a Maryland State Senator, used his Twitter account to address several topics on January 7 and 8, 2026. His posts included criticism of Maryland’s Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program (VEIP), a tribute to a local pizza establishment, and commentary on an incident involving U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
On January 7, Ready called for the end of the state’s emissions testing program. He wrote, “It’s time to end Maryland’s VEIP Testing Cash Grab once and for all! It’s a bi-partisan – really a nonpartisan – issue. It’s not only about the $30 it’s about the time wasted too. End it now. Thanks @DirectLineLive for this graphic! #mdpolitics #MDGA2026”. The VEIP has been criticized by some lawmakers and residents who argue that it imposes unnecessary costs and time burdens on vehicle owners.
Later that day, Ready posted a message in memory of an individual associated with Ledo Pizza. On January 7 he tweeted, “RIP to a legend – we Readys love @LedoPizza!”.
On January 8, Ready commented on an incident involving ICE agents and the death of a woman. He stated, “This is a really good breakdown – it’s tragic that this woman died – should’ve not been there and who knows what her intentions were for gunning the car – but to portray this as ICE killing her just because you don’t like that they are there is ridiculous.”.
The VEIP program in Maryland requires most vehicles registered in the state to undergo periodic emissions testing as part of efforts to reduce air pollution. Some legislators have questioned its current necessity given advances in vehicle technology and declining failure rates over recent years.
ICE operations have been subject to national debate regarding immigration enforcement practices and public safety concerns.
