John F. Favazza, Esq.

Accomplishing goals in Annapolis depends in large measure on mutual trust and mastery of the legislative process, two attributes that John F. Favazza, Esq., has honed through his experiences in Annapolis and applies now as a member of the MCA firm.

These traits coupled with his legal training and ability to deal effectively with complicated and sometimes controversial subject matter, give added strength to the Manis Canning team in work for their wide array of clients. He has a deep understanding of the nuances and subtleties of the legislative process and state government, and advises clients on strategies to accomplish their goals.

John spent 13 years working inside the legislative process in Annapolis. He served as Counsel to the House Economic Matters Committee for four years, and then spent nine years working for Speaker of the House Michael E. Busch, the last six as Chief of Staff. Working with the Speaker and House leadership, John gained insight into the larger strategic decisions that underpin the legislative process in Maryland. He was involved in a broad array of substantive and policy issues, but with a focus on business, environmental, gaming and tax structure issues.

John holds undergraduate and graduate degrees in History from Towson University and Villanova University respectively and a law degree from the University of Maryland. A member of the Maryland Bar, John lives in Annapolis with his wife Erin, and their three children.

What Our Clients Say

“We have high expectations at Under Armour and MCA by far exceeds those expectations. They are responsive, knowledgeable, and experienced. Their ability to anticipate and keep us informed of issues is an asset.”

Matt Stanton, Vice President Global Public Policy, Under Armour

The Motion Picture Association of America began its relationship with MCA in 1974, working with Co-Founder George Manis. We can’t imagine working with anyone else. They anticipate our issues and their professionalism and integrity is unmatched in Annapolis. For decades, it has been clear to MPAA that their relationships with elected leaders are based on trust and mutual respect.

Vans Stevenson, Senior Vice President, State Government Affairs, Motion Picture Association of America
No matter how large or small, I can always trust MCA to dive into the substance of an issue. Their experience working at the highest levels of State and local government gives them a unique command of both the process and the issues. There is no one I’d rather work with in Annapolis.
Anne Lindne, Vice President of State Legislative Affairs, Pepco Holdings
MCA continues to help us navigate the complexities of one of the largest and most important urban renewal projects in the country, Port Covington. Available at all times, day or night, I know I can count on them for their strong grasp of the issues and effective leadership.
Marc Weller, President and CEO Weller Development Company
We turned to MCA help secure funding for our new Regional Youth Workforce and Innovation Center. They have become a trusted partner and advisor, not just for our new Center, but also on efforts to expand career and technical exploration in the K-12 school system.
Jennifer Bodensiek, President and CEO, Junior Achievement of Central Maryland
We added MCA to our team when we needed timely advice on an issue of great importance to the company. They quickly brought themselves up to speed and knew the players to get the job done. We can’t thank them enough for their results- oriented approach. Their knowledge of all levels and branches of Maryland government has been invaluable.
Brett Kelly, Vice President, Fraport Maryland (formerly Airmall Maryland)

I’ve worked with MCA for many years, and I have always been impressed by their thorough approach to government affairs. They work in a bipartisan manner to get results for their clients and they are clearly respected on both sides of the aisle by elected officials and staff alike. The MCA team has helped facilitate relationships and presented opportunities for me to communicate directly with policymakers about issues important to my business.

Gary Mangum, Co-Founder of ForwardGro and former CEO of Bell Nursery
It isn’t easy to start a new business – let alone a new industry. MCA gave the medical cannabis growers and processors in our organization instant credibility, and a powerful voice in Annapolis. With their help, we have gotten our businesses off the ground and are delivering a safe, reliable and affordable medical product to Maryland patients.
Jake Van Wingerden, Owner of SunMed Growers and past President of the Maryland Wholesale Medical Cannabis Trade Association (CANMD)

Annapolis Office (Main):

La Plata Office:

Practice Areas:

• Issue Analysis & Strategic Planning • Legislative & Executive Advocacy • Regulatory Advocacy • Procurement & Business Development • Coalition Building & Managing Relationships • Local Government Consulting