Updates from District 7

Dear Community Members,

Earlier this month, the Spending and Affordability Committee received a sobering briefing from state analysts, who emphasized the need for fiscally conservative decisions rather than additional taxes and fees. I’ll share more details below, but please know that I remain committed to standing up for working-class Marylanders who have been struggling for far too long.



During the last session, Senate Republicans called for targeted cuts, strategic delays, and a clear prioritization of needs over wants. Yet as we enter the 448th Legislative Session, Maryland is confronted with a $1.4 billion shortfall. This outcome is unacceptable, though entirely predictable. We had multiple opportunities to prevent it, but the supermajority continued to approve new spending without regard for our long-term financial stability.

Screenshot from Spending and Affordability Briefing

Spending and Affordability Briefing Summary:

Maryland’s fiscal outlook is continuing to head in the wrong direction, and last week’s briefing made that painfully clear. Just months after the General Assembly passed a record-breaking FY2026 budget, we are now facing a deficit that could force an even larger budget with far more urgent concerns than anything projected during session. What some of my colleagues called a “small surplus” has now become a $1.496 billion shortfall for FY2027, and the gap more than doubles in the years ahead.

There is a narrative suggesting that federal actions are solely to blame. While federal mandates have certainly contributed, $192 million in direct costs, $21 million to maintain an emergency fund, $71 million from H.R.1 - One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBA), and $100 million in education, these obligations still fall far short of explaining an almost $1.5 billion deficit.

This trajectory is neither sustainable nor responsible. These financial conditions put our AAA bond rating at risk and place an unfair burden on hardworking Marylanders who are already grappling with rising taxes, higher fees, and a cost of living that grows heavier each month.

We also learned this week that continuing unemployment claims have surged by more than 24% since the summer, while federal job losses have pushed thousands of Maryland families into uncertainty. Revenues inched up by just 2%, yet state spending continued to climb, driven by agency overruns, personnel costs, and programs whose expenses keep growing without accountability.

Our reserves, which were intended to safeguard us in difficult times, have been drawn down. While the Rainy-Day Fund still holds roughly $2.2 billion, it is far below the level maintained by other AAA-rated states. Credit rating agencies have already warned Maryland to correct course. Further depleting the fund, or reducing it to 5%, would jeopardize our credit rating and impose higher borrowing costs on future generations. That is something I will not support.

The Blueprint alone faces a significant shortfall, and analysts were clear: substantial cuts will be necessary to restore balance. Even draining every dollar of our reserves would still leave Maryland hundreds of millions in the red.

Maryland families are tightening their belts every day. State government must do the same. We cannot keep spending beyond our means, shifting obligations onto taxpayers who are already being priced out of their own communities, or relying on federal bailouts and overly optimistic revenue projections to cover the consequences of poor fiscal discipline.

I remain committed to fighting for transparency, accountability, and a responsible budget that protects Maryland’s working families, not one that expands government, drains reserves, and hopes no one notices the warning signs.

This is a pivotal moment for Maryland’s fiscal future. We must correct course before the challenges projected for FY2028 become a full-blown crisis. As my friend, Senate Minority Leader Steve Hershey, said, “You can’t spend like there’s no tomorrow and act surprised when the bill comes due. This administration and legislative Democrats have tied Maryland taxpayers to new, expensive, long-term programs like the multi-billion-dollar Blueprint for Education and the unchecked expansion of entitlement programs—with no sustainable plan to pay for them.”

Below is the Maryland Senate Republican Caucus' Press Release

E-ZPass Reminder:

Did you know, you can adjust your settings in your E-ZPass Account to receive push

notifications? This is a great way to stay on top of your account to avoid fines.

For additional savings, E-ZPass offers commuter plans that offer significant savings for those who pass through tolls on a daily basis.

Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) is also required to create a payment plan when your accrued balance reaches $300, to enable Marylanders to avoid

Central Collections Unit (CCU). Being proactive is the best way to avoid major accruals, fines, and CCU.

BGE: New Storage:

BGE has submitted its first major proposal under the Next Generation Energy Act: 29MW of new battery storage to help stabilize the grid and improve reliability for thousands of Marylanders. This is Phase I of their plan, with another 58MW proposal expected by November 2026.



These battery systems will charge during low-demand periods and discharge when energy use is at its peak, on the hottest summer days and coldest winter nights. This means fewer outages, stronger service in capacity-strained areas, and less need for costly new infrastructure.

BGE has already completed two storage projects in Chesapeake Beach, improving reliability for more than 9,000 customers. The new proposal builds on that work and supports Maryland’s broader energy goals by helping integrate renewables and reducing reliance on fossil fuels for new generation.

As energy costs continue to rise every six months, Marylanders deserve a system that is reliable, resilient, and cost-effective. Strategic investments like this should focus on protecting ratepayers and keeping our grid stable. I will continue monitoring these proposals to ensure they support working-class families and deliver real value for our communities.

Following the call of many for additional generation, Constellation has requested additional generation. BGE also appears to be requesting the ability to generate, following a decoupling from Generation and Transmission years ago.

Out and About in Baltimore County:

Recently, I joined neighbors and community leaders at the Essex Middle River Civic Council meeting at Victory Villa to recap the past legislative session. Midges continue to be a significant concern for our district, and one recommendation discussed was partnering with local scouting groups to build bird and bat boxes, an effective way to help reduce the midge population.

I also had the honor of attending the unveiling of the new sign for Upper Falls, which is located at the Odd Fellows Lodge. This sign was beautifully designed by Kingsville community member, Chelsey Armstrong-Marks.

During the Perry Hall Improvement Association meeting, we heard from Board of Education member Julie Henn, who encouraged parents to participate in American Education Week, a valuable chance to step into the classroom, see firsthand what students experience each day, and strengthen school–community connections. She also highlighted a positive national trend: increased involvement from male volunteers, which has had a noticeable impact on improving school climate. Additionally, community members were pleased to learn that Perry Hall schools are no longer overcrowded and are not projected to exceed capacity for the next decade.

At the Small Area Plan Meeting, Director Lafferty shared that these plans would help guide the CZMP process moving forward.

Consolidated Transportation Program in

Harford County:

Earlier this month, the Maryland Department of Transportation held its Consolidated Transportation Plan meeting in Harford County. One of the key concerns raised was the increasing number of Maryland residents driving with Virginia plates. MDOT officials expressed optimism that working with Virginia’s newly elected Governor will strengthen enforcement and help address the issue.

Agency leaders also provided updates on several ongoing priorities, including pedestrian and bicycle safety initiatives, progress on the Northeast Corridor rail project, the new roundabout in Bel Air South, expanded guardrail installations, and resurfacing work throughout the region.

For those who regularly use the Hatem Bridge, MDTA is installing new fencing. Work also continues on the MD 43 extension, and the northbound connection to I-695 is on track to open in 2027. Additional safety improvements south of the Maryland House are planned for beyond 2026.

The Motor Vehicle Administration reported an average wait time of just five minutes at the Bel Air branch, though I continue to advocate for restoring walk-in service for those unable to schedule in advance. Tragically, Harford County remains close to last year’s total of 14 transportation-related fatalities, with 11 so far this year. MVA reaffirmed its commitment to the statewide goal of zero transportation deaths.

Marylanders Registering Vehicles in Virginia:

MDOT is actively working to address the growing issue of Maryland residents registering vehicles in Virginia. While Virginia permits nonresidents to register cars, doing so is illegal under Maryland law. Virginia is now sharing registration data with Maryland, and MVA is coordinating with law enforcement to take appropriate action. Discussions are also underway with Virginia about potential legal changes. Additionally, lawmakers are considering updating the historic tag standard from a fixed 1999 cutoff to a rolling 25-year requirement.

Maryland Aviation officials noted that airports outside BWI generate $1.4 billion in annual economic activity and support 10,000 jobs, an important economic driver for our region.

Several safety improvements are underway in District 35A, including the new all-way stop at MD 543 and MD 23, which has already shown positive results. Additional work is planned for MD 22 and MD 136, and concerns were raised regarding High Point and MD 23, as well as US 40 at Martha Lewis Boulevard in District 34A.

A notable difference between the Baltimore County and Harford County meetings was the recognition that Harford County participates in project cost-sharing, helping move transportation improvements forward while reducing the financial burden on the state. That partnership is commendable.

Screenshot captured from page 35 of the Spending Affordability Briefing

Harford County Inclusive Employment Awards:

Harford County honored the incredible achievements of citizens with differing abilities at the 2025 Employment Recognition Luncheon, held October 30 at the Bel Air Armory. This annual event celebrates National Disability Employment Awareness Month, highlighting the theme “Celebrating Value and Intent.”

Congratulations to the 2025 Award Winners:

• Small Employer of the Year: Winters Run Golf Club
• Medium Employer of the Year: Bayside Commercial Building Services
• Large Employer of the Year: Redner’s Markets, Inc.
• Employee of the Year: Michael Dehn, Dunlop Protective Footwear USA, LLC
• Student Worker of the Year: Leah Arthur, Hawkhouse Café and Creamery
• Volunteer of the Year: Jonathan Durham
• Accessibility Award: Horizon Cinemas, Aberdeen
• Media Award: Kerry Paradis Photography

Additional Awards of Merit recognized employees, student workers, and volunteers who continue to make a positive difference in their workplaces and community. Thank you for all that these employers do to keep Harford County employed.

My office remains ready to serve my constituents, should a need arise. Not sure if you reside in Legislative District 7? Check it out here: Members - Find My Representatives. Navigate to Look Up, and type in your address to see who represents your district and their legislation. Feel free to email me at jb.jennings@senate.maryland.gov. Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, or X.

Best regards,



Senator J.B. Jennings