Baltimore, MD – According to the Baltimore Sun, Governor Wes Moore recently released a video on social media aimed at debunking common misconceptions about his administration’s handling of Maryland’s budget. The video, posted on February 20, 2026, addressed claims that state spending is spiraling out of control, that hundreds of new taxes have been imposed, that the state’s surplus has been squandered, and that state employees have been neglected.
In the video, Governor Wes Moore emphasized strategic fiscal measures, stating that his administration has made “strategic cuts” to manage resources efficiently. He highlighted efforts to do more with less amid ongoing budget challenges. Analysis of the governor’s budget proposals over the past two years reveals a pattern of significant reductions to address deficits. For fiscal year 2027, Governor Wes Moore proposed nearly $1.8 billion in cuts and fund transfers. This included shifting $293 million from the Strategic Energy Investment Fund, which supports renewable energy initiatives, and potential reductions in funding for the Developmental Disabilities Administration.
Advocates for individuals with disabilities expressed concerns that these cuts could jeopardize essential care services. Similarly, energy sector stakeholders noted that while the adjustments represent a step forward, they may not sufficiently mitigate rising utility costs for Maryland residents. In fiscal year 2026, the administration implemented $2.3 billion in cuts, including eliminations of vacant positions across state agencies. The general fund, primarily funded by taxpayer dollars and supporting key areas like education, public safety, and health care, saw a $154 million reduction in the current proposal, following a $274 million decrease the previous year.
Despite these reductions, Governor Wes Moore has directed substantial investments into priority sectors. For fiscal 2027, public safety received $124 million, marking a $2 million increase from the prior year, coinciding with Baltimore’s lowest homicide rate in five decades. Education funding has also seen consistent growth, reaching $10.2 billion for K-12 programs—a 17% rise since the governor assumed office in 2023.
Addressing allegations of mistreating state workers, Governor Wes Moore asserted that his policies have supported employees through annual raises, contrasting with previous administrations. However, negotiations with the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) stalled after missing a December 31, 2025, deadline. The union rejected the proposed wage increases, citing insufficient adjustments for inflation and outdated pay scales. AFSCME subsequently filed an unfair labor practice complaint, alleging violations in employee surveillance, telework policies, and shift differentials.
Maryland’s correctional facilities face staffing shortages, with unions criticizing delays in addressing workforce depletion and facility conditions, including limited health care, poor climate control, and heightened violence. On a positive note, in January 2026, Governor Wes Moore finalized agreements with six state workers’ unions for a 2% average pay increase affecting over 11,000 employees. A voluntary buyout program offered $20,000 plus $300 per year of service to reduce personnel costs. Additionally, a 2024 agreement provided over 20% pay increases and 3% inflation adjustments through the end of 2026.
Regarding new fees and taxes, Governor Wes Moore clarified that only a limited number have been introduced, such as higher fines for speeding in work zones and additional charges for DUI convicts to reinstate IDs. He pledged no new taxes or fees in the current year. However, in July 2025, two new income tax brackets were established: 6.25% for incomes over $500,000 and 6.5% for those exceeding $1 million. Other increases included taxes on sports betting, recreational cannabis, and vehicle registrations, alongside hikes in the maximum local piggyback income tax rate.
Fees rose for various licenses, including driver’s permits, specialty plates, handgun permits, cigarettes, and professional certifications for barbers, nail technicians, plumbers, and engineers. On the surplus issue, Governor Wes Moore attributed current fiscal pressures to inherited challenges, noting that much of the prior reserve stemmed from one-time federal COVID-19 aid totaling about $4.9 billion. Broader factors, such as inflation, escalating health care costs, sluggish economic growth, and the loss of 25,000 federal jobs in 2025 due to national policies, have compounded the situation.
Recent economic wins include Sphere Entertainment Co.’s planned 6,000-seat venue, projected to generate billions in revenue and thousands of jobs; AstraZeneca’s $2 billion facility expansion; and Samsung Biologics’ first U.S. factory in Maryland. These developments underscore efforts to bolster the state’s economy amid fiscal constraints. As Maryland’s budget debates continue, Governor Wes Moore‘s administration balances cuts with targeted investments to navigate the deficit while supporting key public services. For more information, visit Baltimore Sun.