| | | |
Message From Governor Larry Hogan
Dear Friend,
We kicked off 2019 and the beginning of our second term with a flurry of activity.
From celebrating the historic Inauguration to our budget rollout to the State of the State Address – it’s hard to believe it’s already February!
In January, we announced a comprehensive crime initiative to tackle the violence that is terrorizing Baltimore City; proposed major investments in our education system; introduced tax credits for our retirees and small business; and so much more. You can read about many of these initiatives below and explore our entire 2019 Opportunity Session package here.
In my Inaugural and State of the State Addresses, I emphasized the need for all of us to continue to work in a bipartisan manner to get things done for the people of Maryland. I am confident that no problem faces us that hard work, honesty, and courage cannot solve if we work together. |
Governor Larry Hogan Announces Fiscal Year 2020 Budget
Governor Larry Hogan announced major items in the administration’s fiscal year 2020 budget, which was officially submitted on Friday, January 18. The governor’s budget fully funds not only the administration’s priorities, but also all legislative mandated spending programs without raising taxes, cutting services, or raiding dedicated special funds. The budget leaves $1.3 billion in reserves and continues – for the fifth straight year – to fund K-12 public education at an all-time record level.
“Once again, we will provide historically high, record funding for K-12 education – our fifth consecutive budget to do so,” said Governor Hogan. “Not only will every single penny that every single jurisdiction anticipates from the state for education be fully funded at 100 percent, but every single school system in Maryland will again see increased investment by the state.”
The FY 2020 budget continues the Hogan administration’s legacy of fiscal responsibility, adhering to recommendations from the Spending Affordability Committee and maintaining structural balance while making vital investments in education, healthcare, and job creation. This budget also makes prudent use of what is likely a one-time surplus to both save for the future and make critical infrastructure investments. More than $1.3 billion has been set aside to guard against any potential downturn in the economy while still investing $3.3 billion in Maryland’s transportation network and nearly $250 million for a wide range of improvements to facilities or projects that provide services to Maryland citizens, including $63 million in critical maintenance funding to Maryland higher education institutions. |
Governor Larry Hogan Announces Maryland Opportunity Zone Expansion
Governor Larry Hogan announced a series of initiatives and legislation to further expand the thriving Maryland Opportunity Zone program. A total of $56.5 million will be dedicated to attracting new businesses and development and continuing to invest in Maryland’s workforce.
“Today’s important Opportunity Zone announcements strengthen our focus on and steadfast commitment to renewing hope and opportunity in every corner of our state,” said Governor Hogan. “These initiatives will foster an environment of economic opportunity to create thousands of new Maryland jobs and to transform and revitalize the cities, towns, and local communities that need our help the most.”
In addition, the governor signed Executive Order 01.01.2019.01, which creates the Maryland Opportunity Zone Leadership Task Force. The task force, chaired by Lt. Governor Rutherford, will host regional summits throughout the state for local stakeholders to share information and discuss possibilities for Opportunity Zones. The task force will develop a State Opportunity Plan to align Opportunity Zone goals with state economic and cultural priorities, which will include partnering with local governments to effectively leverage local assets to fast-track investment and development.
“I would like to thank Governor Hogan for the opportunity – no pun intended – to lead the Maryland Opportunity Zone Leadership Task Force,” said Lt. Governor Rutherford. “The governor’s leadership and vision has made the revitalization of our most vulnerable communities a top priority for the state. This is an exciting endeavor, one which I believe will truly make a difference in those communities that need our assistance the most.” |
Hogan Administration Launches Comprehensive Initiatives to Address Violent Crime in Baltimore City
Governor Larry Hogan announced a series of initiatives and legislation to address violent crime in Baltimore City through a multi-pronged approach of enforcement, prevention, legislation, and victim services. The governor is committing nearly $13 million and introducing two new pieces of legislation to utilize all resources available to create the strongest state enforcement presence ever within Baltimore City.
“The level of violence in Baltimore City is completely unacceptable – the people who live here are rightfully scared, and citizens all across the state are outraged by the daily headlines of this rampant gang violence,” said Governor Hogan. “I have been bringing together all the federal, state, and local stakeholders to get everyone’s input on what else can be done. As a result of those efforts, we are launching a new coordinated offensive to go after violent crime, gangs, and criminal enterprises.” |
