Fiscal Year 2026 Budget

in Maryland

Dear Neighbor,

Democrats in Annapolis passed the largest tax increase in Maryland’s history, a $1.6 billion hike that will hurt all Marylanders. This massive increase comes despite clear alternatives that could have balanced the budget without forcing hardworking Marylanders to foot the bill. Instead of controlling spending and eliminating waste, the majority chose to pass a budget that shifts costs to local governments and raises taxes and fees on everything from income to services.

I fought against these unnecessary tax increases by proposing and supporting amendments that prioritized responsible spending and protected taxpayers. These proposals would have saved billions. Unfortunately, these efforts were rejected, and the budget passed without these critical changes. I proudly voted no, standing up for Maryland families and businesses.

Skyrocketing Utility Bills and NO Energy Assistance

I offered an amendment to reallocate funds from certain pet projects to support energy assistance, directly helping low-income Marylanders afford to keep the lights on. This amendment earned the most votes of the ones offered but still failed to pass.

It's Unfortunate That The Majority Party Doesn't See The Issue With Taxing Their Own Citizens To Death.

The state of our state government is deeply concerning. On one side, we have a governor who has increased his office’s budget by over $10 million since taking office. As if more staff and advisors are necessary to accelerate the decline of our state. On the other side, we face the entrenched Democratic machine in Annapolis, which doesn’t just retaliate against Republican voices but punishes anyone who dares to challenge their power.

Standing Up Against The Status Quo

"I'm sure I'm going to be retaliated against" - Delegate Sheree Sample-Hughes

HB350 (Budget Bill Fiscal Year 2026) and HB352 (Budget Reconciliation and Financing Act of 2025) are now headed to the Senate, where they will undergo a thorough review. The Senate is expected to propose amendments before the bills are sent to the Governor for approval and final enactment.

Respectfully,

Brian Chisholm

Delegate, District 31

Maryland General Assembly