MDCEP Statement on Gov. Hogan Vetoing the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future

MDCEP Executive Director Benjamin Orr issued the following statement in response to Gov. Larry Hogan’s decision to veto the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future (HB 1300), HB 732, and HB 932:

“Governor Hogan’s decision to veto the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future and bills that bring our tax system into the 21st Century was incredibly misguided. The pandemic has highlighted the existing disparities in our education system, which have lasting effects for students, families, and communities. These are in part the result of the state’s failure to maintain our commitment to public education during the last recession. It is even more clear now that we need the support and investment offered by the Blueprint so that every child can get a great education.

It is also a mistake to walk away from responsible revenue options at a time when Marylanders are counting on their state government for support. The modest changes the General Assembly passed update our tax system so it better reflects our modern economy, while also helping fund pandemic response, education, and other vital public services. As we saw in the last recession, cutting back on public services will slow our economic recovery and make things harder for families and communities.

We urge the General Assembly to overturn the governor’s vetoes and continue work on additional measures to clean up loopholes in our tax code and ensure the state has the resources needed to invest in our schools and other foundations of thriving communities.”

Media Contact: Kali Schumitz, 410-412-9105 ext. 701