• Senator Benson
    Unbossed and Standing on Principle
  • Senator Benson
    Unbossed and Standing on Principle

Meet Joanne C. Benson

Joanne C. Benson was elected in 1991 to The House of Delegates of the Maryland General Assembly to represent Prince George’s County’s 24th Legislative District. In 2011 she was elected to serve as the 24th District’s first female Senator. Senator Benson currently serves in the Senate Leadership as Majority Whip. She is a member of the Budget and Taxation Committee, serves on the Joint Committees on Education, Business and Administration, Pensions, Audit and Evaluations, Children, Youth and Families; Ending Homelessness; Fair Practices and State Personnel Oversight; and has been appointed to the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments. She also is a member of the Women Legislators of Maryland and the Legislative Black Caucus of Maryland.

Joanne C. Benson was born in Roanoke, Virginia. She is the daughter of the Reverend and Mrs. William Claybon. She is one of a patrician line of six --- four sisters and one brother. Her family relocated early on to Hagerstown, Maryland where she attended public schools and graduated from South Hagerstown High School. Mrs. Benson holds a Bachelor of Science Degree from Bowie State University and a Master of Arts Degree from Catholic University. She believes that education is one of the most powerful tools anyone could possess. She is a constant proponent for the strongest quality education for all Prince George’s County’s children.

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Latest News

Maryland Senate Chamber

2026 END OF SESSION LETTER

"If we don't educate our children, we don't have to worry about our future, because there won't be one!"

The 2026 Legislative Session ended Monday, April 13th, at 12:00 a.m. As a forty-year veteran educator and public servant, I have dedicated my life to serving those who need it most. My beloved residents have afforded me the privilege to represent their interests. That is where my heart truly lies. I have remained an unwavering defender for those who cannot speak for themselves, our seniors, our veterans, our children, and our working families — grounded in a deep commitment to service and focused on delivering real, tangible results for every one of my constituents.

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Senator Joanne C. Benson Free Turkey Basket Giveaway

FREE TURKEY BASKET GIVEAWAY

Monday, November 23, 2026 | 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM

Senator Joanne C. Benson invites District 24 residents to a Free Turkey Basket Giveaway. Baskets will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, while supplies last.

Drive-Thru Event
410 Addison Road South
Capitol Heights, MD 20743

View Event Flyer
All Kids Access – A Resource for Families

All Kids Access – A Resource for Families

All Kids Access is an all-in-one directory and app that helps families discover inclusive programs, activities, camps, events, and resources for every child—all in one place.

From early childhood to teens, and for children of all abilities, our goal is simple: make it easier for families to find what they need and give every child access to the opportunities they deserve.

Do you run a program for kids with disabilities in Maryland?

Submit your program to All Kids Access so Maryland families can discover your services. All submissions are reviewed before being published.

Explore All Kids Access at:
AllKidsAccess.com

Senior Resource Fair - October 22, 2026

SENIOR RESOURCE FAIR

Save the Date!

Join us for the Senior Resource Fair on Thursday, October 22, 2026, from 10:00 AM – 12:00 noon.

Location:
410 Addison Road South
Capitol Heights, MD 20743
Rear Parking Lot – Omega Room Entrance

Presented by the Prince George's Senior Provider Network (PGSPN) and The Maryland Umbrella Group.

Registration Information Coming Soon
Senator Joanne C. Benson - Why We Need an Inspector General

WHY WE NEED AN INSPECTOR GENERAL

Accountability and Transparency in Prince George's County

Senator Joanne C. Benson advocates for an independent Office of Inspector General in Prince George's County with meaningful investigative authority, subpoena power, and whistleblower protections to address fraud, waste, and abuse in county government.

Learn why independent oversight is essential to protecting public trust and ensuring accountability in county operations.

Read Senator Benson's Statement
Caregiver Connections Kit - Stay Sharp at the Library

Caregiver Connections Kit – Stay Sharp @ the Library

Launching November 2! The Prince George's County Memorial Library System is introducing the Caregiver Connections Kit, a special collection of books, activities, and resources designed for caregivers and their loved ones. The kits help spark memories, encourage meaningful conversations, and promote connection and well-being.

Memories connect us. Stories keep us strong. Families, friends, and caregivers can use the materials to reminisce, engage in interactive activities, and enjoy meaningful moments together.

Available for checkout at three library branches:

  • Greenbelt Branch
  • South Bowie Branch
  • Upper Marlboro Branch

Your Feedback Matters! Each kit includes a brief survey. When returning the kit, please complete the survey and return it to the library's front desk. Your feedback will help improve the program and better serve the community.

Additional Caregiver Resources: Ask the library's front desk for a Caregiver Resource Tag containing helpful information, support services, and local resources for caregivers and their loved ones.

This initiative brings together the Prince George's County Memorial Library System, Maryland Umbrella Group, Council Member Tim Adams (District 4), Dementia Friendly America, and the Department of Family Services.

Download Flyer



2026 Fall Newsletter

Focused on District 24’s Priorities

SIGNUP