Readers respond to last week’s Feedback Friday topic, which was:
State Announces Fiscal Surplus of $2B
Last Wednesday, Governor Larry Hogan issued the following statement regarding the Comptroller of Maryland’s closeout report that showed the state ended Fiscal Year 2022 with a revenue surplus of $2 billion in its general fund:
“When our administration took office in 2015, we inherited a $5.1 billion structural budget deficit and an economy struggling under the weight of 43 consecutive tax hikes. Eight years later, as we leave office, the state will have a record $4.4 billion in total reserves.
“We achieved this incredible turnaround by putting the state on an unabashedly pro-growth path. Instead of raiding special funds and resorting to budgetary gimmicks, we made tough choices and added to our reserve funds year after year. Instead of more tax hikes, we have cut taxes, tolls, and fees by $4.7 billion while making historic investments in education, crime prevention, and the environment.
“We weathered a global pandemic and led one of the strongest recoveries in America. Today, thanks to the hard work and resilience of Marylanders, the state’s fiscal health is stronger than it has ever been.”
What do you think of Hogan’s assessment and how should the State utilize the surplus?
Here’s what you said:
What should we do with the 2 billion dollar surplus? I would start by repaving highway 97 between Baltimore and Annapolis. It is an embarrassment to the government and the state of Maryland. Not to mention the fact that I have to get my front end realigned every time I drive down it.
Bruce Coonradt, Annapolis
Cut taxes.
Linda Giuffre
The budget surplus is not because of any of the wonderful accomplishments of Governor Hogan who was at the mercy of the democratic legislature. It is because of the billions given to the states by the Federal Government. That is one reason why we have rampant inflation and a federal debt of $30 trillion (with a T) dollars. Our system would be in balance if a person works to produce a good or service so he/she can make money to go buy a good or service. Now we have the federal government just printing money and creating big demand without people working to increase supply. The reason for the budget surplus is not a good thing.
Julia Jones, Edgewater
Would love to see teacher salaries increased.
Jean Andrews, Severna Park
Use the funds to help public schools become the best in the nation.
Ann Lister, Crownsville
Cut taxes!!
Tom Kranz, Cambridge
Some ideas for the state surplus funds:- Pave our street! (Lang Drive). Half of Crofton Parkway was repaved recently. The county portion of Lang Dr is in horrible condition and should be repaved (torn up by construction vehicles for Crofton HS and Rt 424). Crofton Pkwy was only rough in spots. - Offer scholarships for community college- Build community centers for youth to have a place to gather. Keep them off the streets with something to do. (Ideas: comment, music, maker space, classes; ask them for ideas). - Help teachers (raises, training, supplies; ask them for their wish lists). - More funding for libraries!!! Thank you for the opportunity to comment.
Cheryl Jackson, Crofton
How about using half (and saving 1/2!) and sending every MD adult a $500 check to help offset what inflation is doing to our incomes!
Or how about another gas text holiday (month?)
Steven Onken, Odenton
REDUCE OUR TAXES!!!
John Blauvelt, Arnold
Good job, Governor Hogan and staff! I remember that one of the first fees you removed was on EZ Pass transponders. Government should always strive to be fiscally prudent and spend the citizens'; money wisely. Thank you!
Victoria Johnson, Chester
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