Maryland Freedom Caucus rejects Moore’s record $71 billion budget. Warns it sets the stage for massive tax increases next year
Annapolis, MD—The Maryland Freedom Caucus today stood united in opposition to Governor Wes Moore’s record-setting $71 billion budget, warning that it represents a dangerous expansion of government that will inevitably lead to higher taxes on Maryland families.
Passed out of the House of Delegates on Thursday, March 26, the largest budget in state history now heads to a conference committee, with final passage expected next week. Maryland Freedom Caucus members argue the bill reflects a pattern of unsustainable spending that ignores clear warning signs about Maryland’s fiscal future.
“A vote for this budget is a vote for next year’s tax increase,” said Maryland Freedom Caucus Chair Matt Morgan. “We are staring at a $3 billion structural deficit, layered on top of billions in new spending commitments that have no stable funding source. Annapolis continues to operate as if resources are unlimited, but the truth is simple: Maryland is on an unsustainable path. You cannot spend beyond your means forever without consequences.”
Lawmakers debated the budget and companion BRFA legislation over two days before advancing it, with all seven Maryland Freedom Caucus members voting in unified opposition.
Speaking on the House floor, Vice Chair Kathy Szeliga warned that the budget reflects a broader failure to confront reality.“Marylanders are being squeezed from every direction, and this budget acts as if everything is fine,” Szeliga said. “We are seeing workforce contraction, economic uncertainty, and families leaving the state in search of opportunity. Yet instead of prioritizing discipline and reform, this budget doubles down on expansion. That is not responsible leadership; it is a refusal to adapt to reality.”
The Maryland Freedom Caucus cautioned that the fiscal trajectory set by this budget makes future tax increases not just likely but inevitable, including a potential increase in the state sales tax from 6% to 8%.
“Maryland families are already voting with their feet,” said Freedom Caucus Whip Ryan Nawrocki. “When government grows faster than the economy, taxpayers are forced to make up the difference. That’s exactly where this budget is heading. If this course is not corrected, more seniors, more families, and more businesses will continue to leave for states that respect taxpayers and reward opportunity.”
The Maryland Freedom Caucus reaffirmed its commitment to a different path, one rooted in policies that make Maryland safer, freer, and more affordable and that keep families, seniors, and businesses in Maryland rather than driving them away.
Del. Matt Morgan
District 29A
St. Mary’s County
Chair
Del. Kathy Szeliga
District 7A
Baltimore County
Vice Chair
Del. Ryan Nawrocki
District 7A
Baltimore County
Whip
Del. Lauren Arikan
District 7B
Harford County
Del. Brian Chisholm
District 31
Anne Arundel County
Del. Mark Fisher
District 27C
Calvert County
Del. Robin Grammer
District 6
Baltimore County