Maryland Gov. Wes Moore Proposes $150 Million in State Spending Cuts

Maryland Governor Wes Moore Proposes $150 Million in Budget Cuts to Fund Child-Care Subsidy Program

Maryland Governor Wes Moore has proposed $150 million in targeted cuts to state spending in order to finance a child-care subsidy program and cover unpredictable Medicaid expenses. The proposed cuts, announced just 10 days into the new budget year, would draw funds from five state agencies and 10 percent of a state savings account earmarked for specific projects.

Governor Moore, a rising figure in the Democratic Party, campaigned on promises to “leave no one behind,” but is facing a budget situation that may not be able to support his ambitious plans. The Maryland Board of Public Works, which includes Moore, the state treasurer, and the state comptroller, is set to vote on the proposed cuts to the state’s $57.7 billion budget next week.

The proposed cuts would impact various programs, including local health departments, planned raises for public defenders, a drone security program for the Port of Baltimore, and an urban forestry program. Governor Moore’s administration described these budget items as enhanced spending that could be slowed down to redirect funds to higher priorities.

One of the key areas where the funds would be directed is the state’s child-care subsidy program, which has seen a significant increase in enrollment over the past two years. The program provides assistance to families earning $126,000 or less to help cover child care costs at certified providers. Governor Moore argues that investing in child-care assistance is essential to keeping parents in the workforce and stimulating the state’s economy.

The proposed cuts have received mixed reactions, with Republican leaders acknowledging the need to avoid tax increases but cautioning that the cuts may simply divert funds from other priorities rather than truly saving money for future budget shortfalls.

Overall, Governor Moore’s proposal aims to address the growing demand for child-care assistance in Maryland while also ensuring that the state can cover unexpected Medicaid costs. The final decision on the budget cuts will be made by the Maryland Board of Public Works in the coming weeks.