Maryland Young Republicans Statement On Governor O'Malley's Budget

ANNAPOLIS- Governor Martin O'Malley's proposed budget does not meet the needs of our state, the Maryland Young Republicans said in a statement today.

"Governor O'Malley's budget proposal merely continues his legacy of fiscal irresponsibility, and balances the budget on the backs of Maryland's working families," said MDYR Chairman Brian Griffiths.

O'Malley's $35.9 billion budget will increase income taxes on nearly half a million Marylanders, who already shoulder two-thirds of the states tax burden. The income tax hike will also negatively affect small businesses, which are already suffering in Maryland.

Despite his claim of $7.5 billion in budget cuts, the Maryland budget has increased 16% since he first took office, and as proposed it will increase 22% or $6.5 billion in real dollars. General fund spending increases by nearly $1 million over FY 2012. Last year, Maryland's general fund spending increase was one of the largest in the nation according to the National Governor's Association and National Association of State Budget Officers.

"It is a slap in the face to all Marylanders," said Griffiths. "It is the height of dishonesty to claim you cut billions when the budget has in fact ballooned by billions, then turn around and slap us with higher taxes to pay for it."

"The Maryland Young Republicans continue to stand by our proposals, including reducing the state sales tax, an across the board tax cut, and an across the board reduction in state spending. Only then will Maryland truly have a responsible budget and job creation plan."