CHAIR PETER O'MALLEY LAUDS SUCCESSFUL 2011 SESSION

ANNAPOLIS – Maryland Democratic Party Chair Peter O’Malley released the following statement today congratulating the Governor and members of the General Assembly on a successful legislative session:

“The focus of Maryland Democrats this session was, is, and continues to be on creating and saving jobs, promoting innovation and entrepreneurship, and continuing record investments in education and in our future.

Democrats – led by Governor Martin O’Malley, Lt. Governor Anthony Brown, Senate President Thomas V. Mike Miller Jr., and House Speaker Michael E. Busch – continue to make the tough decisions to solve problems and move Maryland forward despite these challenging economic times. This year Maryland Democrats have chosen a responsible path that protects our priorities, creates jobs and improves our long-term fiscal health.”

“Working together, Maryland Democrats have reduced our state’s structural budget gap by 42% and cut $6.8 billion in spending over the last five years; funded public schools and school construction at record levels; ensured higher education remained affordable and accessible; passed Invest Maryland to fuel venture capital investments that will create jobs and spur economic activity; and made the forward thinking decisions to make Maryland’s pension system more sustainable.”

“In Maryland, voters have entrusted Democrats to manage the state’s finances responsibly and make the right choices to protect our progress. That is the reason why Maryland Democrats – as they did during the last 90 days - will continue to work together, build consensus and keep our state best positioned to win the future for all Marylanders.”