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Maryland has a budget problem — but no one can agree on why
ANNAPOLIS — Despite Maryland’s apparent prosperity, the state has a perennial budget problem. Maryland is in the top 10 for average annual wage and an unemployment rate a half-percent below the national average. But it also has a structural deficit expected to reach $1.2 billion by fiscal year 2022. And on Thursday, the state’s Board […]
State pension system doubles up on expected returns
State pension officials are lauding returns on investments that are nearly double the target for the retirement fund for about 331,000 retired and active state employees and teachers.
State dismisses report on underfunded pensions
The state pension system continues to be inadequately funded, according to a report released by the Maryland Public Policy Institute.
Maryland’s richest of rich staying in the state
Eight of America’s richest reside in Maryland, representing a combined $20 billion in net worth, according to the Forbes 400 list of wealthiest Americans released Monday.
Eye Opener: Former Ehrlich aide turned author
A few government and politics headlines for Monday.
Policy group: Some jurisdictions going about implementing rain tax the wrong way
A Maryland policy think tank says new stormwater fees imposed by Baltimore and nine counties could theoretically help reduce development’s negative impact on Chesapeake Bay water quality.
In new study of state economies, Md. brings up the middle
Depending on one’s party affiliation, Maryland is either an economic powerhouse or a national laggard with serious business-climate issues.
Group says casino license is a steal
ANNAPOLIS — Maryland’s casino operators are licensed at a fraction of the fair market value for such an award, according to a report released Wednesday by policy analysts. The Maryland Public Policy Institute and Maryland Tax Education Foundation calculate that the Prince George’s County casino license approved by the General Assembly and Gov. Martin O’Malley […]
Dueling studies released on proposed gambling expansion
Up to $1.6 billion in Maryland money has been spent at a West Virginia casino in the last decade, according to a study paid for by proponents of expanding gambling in the Free State, making it vital that voters approve table games and a sixth casino.
Maryland benefit systems in peril
Maryland counties are funding only about 50 percent of their retiree pension and benefit systems, according to a study by the Maryland Public Policy Institute, in part because almost no local money is being spent on some post-employment benefits.
Marc Kilmer: What now for health care reform in Maryland?
The Supreme Court found no constitutional objections to most of the Affordable Care Act (ACA, or, as some prefer, “Obamacare”). The constitutional question may be settled, but the policy debate remains, at least on the state level. State policymakers are still tasked with implementing this law. In light of the court decision, what should they […]
The property tax shuffle
One of the top questions in this year’s mayoral race is how to lower the city’s residential property tax rate, the highest in Maryland at $2.268 per $100 of assessed value. All of the candidates have a plan. And those plans are repeatedly bashed on the campaign trail by the candidates in a round robin […]
