Governor Wes Moore's updates
Governor Wes Moore Unveils Data-Driven Plan to Strengthen Maryland
Written By Kendesi Mohammed
Governor Wes Moore’s administration has laid out a comprehensive, data-driven strategy aimed at making Maryland more competitive, equitable, and responsive to its residents. The plan emphasizes economic growth, public safety, opportunity, and modernized state government, with measurable goals and targeted initiatives.
Driving Economic Growth
At the core of Moore’s agenda is economic development through key industries, including life sciences, information technology, and aerospace. The administration’s “Housing Starts Here” initiative seeks to address Maryland’s housing shortage by streamlining permitting, repurposing state-owned land, and setting housing production targets for local governments.
Workforce development is also a priority, with programs designed to prepare Marylanders for high-demand jobs and provide support for former federal workers affected by layoffs. To modernize government operations, Moore has launched the Digital Infrastructure Group, aimed at expanding broadband access and reducing regulatory barriers for businesses.
Enhancing Public Safety and Infrastructure
The Moore administration is maintaining record funding for public safety and law enforcement while increasing support for the Department of Juvenile Services. Infrastructure improvements are advancing through the “MOVE Maryland” coalition, which targets bridge repairs, transportation safety projects, and the full rehabilitation of the Light Rail system.
Expanding Opportunity and Improving Quality of Life
Education and child welfare are central to Moore’s vision. The administration is investing in teacher recruitment and retention and tackling child poverty as a priority. Healthcare reforms under “Healthy Maryland Today” focus on affordable access, expanded telehealth services, and enhanced behavioral health programs.
For Maryland’s aging population, the “Longevity Ready Maryland” initiative offers a 10-year plan for coordinated services, including home modifications and dementia navigation programs. Moore has also pardoned more than 175,000 past low-level cannabis convictions, aiming to remove barriers to employment and housing.
Budget and Tax Reforms
The proposed FY2026 budget reflects Moore’s guiding principles of economic growth, workforce development, government modernization, and tax reform. The plan includes tax cuts for nearly two-thirds of Maryland residents, expanded child tax credits, a lower corporate tax rate, and the elimination of the inheritance tax. Certain taxes, including those on sports wagering, table games, and cannabis, are set to increase in FY2027.
Governor Moore’s plan represents a comprehensive approach to building a Maryland that serves its residents, fosters economic opportunity, and invests in the well-being of all communities.
D.C. Guarantees SNAP Benefits; Maryland Funds Food Banks Instead
Amid ongoing federal SNAP delays, Washington, D.C., will use city reserves to cover any lapse in benefits through November, ensuring residents continue to receive assistance.
Maryland, by contrast, is allocating $10 million to food banks and partner organizations but will not directly replace missed SNAP payments. Governor Wes Moore cited uncertainty over federal reimbursement as the reason for the decision, even as lawmakers urged the state to cover the shortfall.
While D.C.’s move guarantees uninterrupted benefits, Maryland’s approach focuses on mitigating the impact through emergency support for food banks rather than a direct benefits replacement.